Scarlett Johansson’s Skincare Brand The Outset Closes
The world of premium beauty is always in motion, but sometimes, even the most beloved brands have to make a change. The Outset, the luxurious skincare line co-founded by Scarlett Johansson and Kate Foster Lengyel, has recently announced its closure after four years in operation.
Launched in 2022, The Outset carved out a unique space in the highly competitive beauty landscape. Its philosophy centered on simplified, gentle skincare, utilizing botanical complexes and a commitment to “clean” beauty claims. The brand sought to merge celebrity appeal with accessible, gentle formulations, distributing its products through its own e-commerce platform alongside major retailers like Sephora, Goop, and Nordstrom.
This journey, while built on a foundation of celebrity endorsement and aspirational beauty, came to a close amidst a significant shift in the industry. The closure underscores a growing demand for skincare driven by clinical efficacy, ingredient innovation, and increasingly competitive pricing.
The beauty market is evolving at lightning speed. New competitors are entering the arena, offering highly results-driven solutions backed by rigorous science. Furthermore, the rapidly expanding influence of Korean beauty brands has introduced innovative formats and cutting-edge ingredients that challenge traditional luxury approaches.
The transition within the company reflected this broader shift. Co-founder Kate Foster Lengyel stepped down in April 2025, and the company navigated operational changes, including the service of fractional CEO Karen Raghavan for four months in 2026.
Ultimately, the story of The Outset is a fitting example of how quickly the rules of the skincare game are changing. While the brand has concluded its chapter, the underlying trends—the demand for science, transparency, and accessible innovation—are only set to accelerate the evolution of premium beauty.
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