Brand Comparison · Makeup · 2026
Fenty vs Rare Beauty, The Inclusive Luxury Battle
Both founded by celebrities, both inclusive-led, both performance-grade. The differences are in formula style and shade philosophy.
Verdict
Tie, they win different jobs.
Glow's editorial team tested both brands across 12 weeks. Here's where each one wins.
Side by side
Fenty vs Rare Beauty, compared.
| Dimension | Fenty | Rare Beauty |
|---|---|---|
| Foundation | Fenty ✓ Pro Filt'r Foundation in 50+ shades. The category leader for inclusive shade range. |
Rare Beauty Liquid Touch Weightless Foundation in 48 shades. Lighter, more flattering. |
| Blush | Fenty Cheeks Out cream-to-powder bronzer in 12 shades. |
Rare Beauty ✓ Soft Pinch Liquid Blush. Universally beloved. The category leader for liquid blush. |
| Lipstick | Fenty ✓ Stunna Lip Paint, Slip Shine. Strong performance, full coverage. |
Rare Beauty Lip Soufflé Matte. Beautiful texture but slightly drying. |
| Highlighter | Fenty ✓ Killawatt Freestyle Highlighter. Cult product. |
Rare Beauty Liquid Luminizer. Buildable but less Insta-pop. |
| Brand identity | Fenty ● Founded by Rihanna. Commercial-luxury feel. |
Rare Beauty ● Founded by Selena Gomez. Mental-health-led, charity-positioned. |
✓ = wins this dimension · ● = tie
Pick Fenty if
When Fenty wins.
Foundation, Stunna Lip Paint, Killawatt Highlighter. The category leaders.
Pick Rare Beauty if
When Rare Beauty wins.
Soft Pinch Liquid Blush, best-in-class. Daily natural-finish makeup.
Frequently asked
Common questions.
Which has better foundation shade range?
Fenty by a small margin (50+ vs 48). Both are best-in-class for inclusivity.
Which is better for sensitive skin?
Both have good fragrance-free options. Rare Beauty markets gentleness more explicitly.
Where can I buy in Australia?
Both at Sephora, Mecca, and Adore Beauty.
Are these brands cruelty-free?
Both claim to be. Verify on official sites.