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6 Cosmetic Categories Needing More Inclusive Shade Ranges

6 Cosmetic Categories Needing More Inclusive Shade Ranges

In the ever-evolving world of cosmetics, it's crucial for brands to stay ahead by embracing diversity and inclusion. For this article, we spoke to a celebrity makeup artist and a renowned beauty editor to gather their expert opinions on which cosmetic categories need more inclusive shade ranges. From expanding olive foundation and concealer shades to broadening lipstick and lip gloss options, this piece covers six insightful recommendations. Read on to discover the first insight from a celebrity makeup artist and the final expert tip on lipstick inclusivity.

  • Expand Olive Foundation and Concealer Shades
  • Offer Inclusive Blush and Bronzer Options
  • Develop Middle-Ground Color Correctors
  • Create Fair Skin Contour Products
  • Design Eyeshadow Palettes for Monolids and Hooded Eyes
  • Broaden Lipstick and Lip Gloss Shade Range

Expand Olive Foundation and Concealer Shades

As a professional makeup up artist, I feel there is a huge lack of olive foundation (and concealer) shades in the industry.

If consumers have to shop in drugstores for their makeup, it's nearly impossible to get a good color match.

I feel the cosmetics industry has made huge strides, expanding their color shades over the last five years, but not for olive skin tones.

Patty Bell
Patty BellCelebrity makeup artist, Patty Bell Makeup, LLC

Offer Inclusive Blush and Bronzer Options

Blush and bronzer are essential for adding color and dimension to any makeup look. Unfortunately, many brands still fail to offer shades that complement deep skin tones. When deeper shades are available, they often have undertones that don't match the natural variations in deeper complexions. This lack of options forces individuals to use products that do not enhance their unique beauty.

There's a clear need for brands to invest in creating a wider range of shades. Brands must prioritize these offerings to ensure everyone can achieve their desired look. It's time for consumers to demand more inclusive blush and bronzer options.

Develop Middle-Ground Color Correctors

Color correctors are key to achieving a flawless base and are especially needed for addressing discoloration. Those with medium-tan skin tones often struggle to find the right shades to address their specific complexion needs. The market is saturated with colors that cater primarily to lighter or darker skin tones, leaving a gap in the middle. This discrepancy means that those with medium-tan skin tones can't effectively neutralize unwanted tones.

Brands should focus on developing a middle-ground for color correctors to cater to this underrepresented group. Innovating in this area will help meet the diverse needs of all consumers. It's crucial for consumers to push for these changes to ensure better products.

Create Fair Skin Contour Products

Contour products help to define and shape the face, creating depth and highlighting certain features. Individuals with fair skin tones often find it challenging to locate contour shades that are neither too dark nor too orange. The current market tends to overlook the unique needs of those with lighter complexions. This gap results in limited possibilities for achieving natural-looking contours on fair skin.

Developing a broader shade range would acknowledge and support the diversity in skin tones. Brands must consider fair skin tones in their product development process. Consumers should advocate for more inclusive contour products.

Design Eyeshadow Palettes for Monolids and Hooded Eyes

Eyeshadow palettes designed with monolids and hooded eyes in mind are scarce in the cosmetic industry. Most eyeshadow palettes contain colors and formulations that do not suit these eye shapes. This often leads to frustration and dissatisfaction when attempting to create different looks. The lack of tailored options restricts creativity and results in makeup that doesn't last or look as intended.

By creating eyeshadow palettes specifically for monolids and hooded eyes, brands can empower users with these eye shapes. Such innovation would enable more people to enjoy and experiment with makeup. It's necessary for consumers to call for more inclusive eyeshadow options.

Broaden Lipstick and Lip Gloss Shade Range

Finding the perfect lipstick and lip gloss can be challenging, especially for those with deeper and darker lip tones. Many cosmetic brands offer a limited range of shades that often do not show up well or complement darker lips. This limitation can make it difficult to achieve the desired effect, leaving individuals feeling excluded. By expanding the shade range, brands can create products that are both visible and flattering on all lip tones.

It is crucial for the beauty industry to recognize and cater to this diversity in lip colors. Investing in a wider variety of shades will ensure that everyone can find products that match their preferences. Consumers should demand that brands offer more inclusive lipstick and lip gloss options.

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