In 2023, the Casa Colina Research Institute (CCRI) conducted a study on
behalf of Rare Beauty to help founder and creator Selena Gomez and her
team gather information on what product attributes aid or hinder usability
and satisfaction for users with hand and arm disabilities. CCRI evaluated
a selection of Rare Beauty brand products based on ease of grip, maneuverability,
packaging design, and product applicators. The study consisted of 57 individuals
with a range of upper extremity disabilities resulting from stroke, traumatic
brain injury, spinal cord injury, and other neurologic and orthopedic
conditions. Participants documented their experiences, challenges, and
any suggestions for improvements.
The successful research eventually culminated in Rare Beauty founder and
creator, Selena Gomez, receiving the inaugural Impact Award at Casa Colina's
annual Tribute to Courage Gala on March 9, 2024. In the following video,
some of our study participants share how the experience using these inclusive
products improved their self-confidence and quality of life:
Over 90% of participants reported that larger actuator size and shape made
it easier to press and spray, even using different parts of the hand or body.
About 85% of users found that ergonomic bottle shapes enabled a secure
grip and comfortable handling, supporting better control during use.
Roughly 90% of participants indicated they could successfully use the bottles
with alternative techniques (e.g., palms, forearms, or flat surfaces),
highlighting adaptability for different ability levels.
It ranked highest for opening, spraying, holding, and comfort, with a statistically
significant preference —especially among users with moderate to
severe impairments.
Rare Beauty Foundation was consistently ranked highest vs. all competitors
for opening, applying, holding, and comfort, with statistically significant
preference across participants
Maintained #1 ranking in moderate–severe fine and gross motor impairment
groups, demonstrating accessibility across ability levels
About 92%+ agreement on ease of holding, pump usability, grip, and stability;
~84–94% agreement across most foundation-specific attributes
Features like wide pumps, flat/stable bottle shape, and matte grip enabled
easier dispensing, better control, and more independent application
View Complete Study
Concealer
Rare Beauty Concealer ranked highest vs. competitors for opening, applying,
holding, and comfort across participants
Maintained top ranking among users with significant fine and gross motor
limitations, reinforcing accessibility benefits
Up to 96.8% agreement on ease of holding and control; strong ratings for
texture, size, and stability
Larger tube and longer wand improved reach, control, and reduced fine motor
strain during application
View complete study
Lip Butter
Rare Beauty Lip Butter ranked highest across all usability categories,
outperforming comparator brands
Maintained top ranking in moderate–severe impairment groups, demonstrating
consistent usability across ability levels
About 89–94% agreement on features like cap size, tube shape, and
grip; strong performance in real-world usability
Oval/flat design reduces rolling and improves control, enhancing independence
and reducing frustration during use
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