Alba, 40, founded the business in 2011, motivated by the dearth of baby products that were free of harsh chemicals

The company’s stock closed at US$23 on Wednesday after it priced the shares at US$16 in its initial public offering. That makes it worth almost US$2.1 billion

Actress Jessica Alba cemented her claim to one of the most lucrative side gigs in Hollywood after shares of her beauty business, The Honest Company, soared 44 per cent in its market debut.