The New Rules of Beauty

The new rules of beauty should be based on inclusion and diversity. However, the industry is changing and trying to improve the push for inclusion and diversity. Makeup brands such as Fenty Beauty, Pat McGrath, Beauty Bakerie, and Crayon Case are changing the stigma to the standard of beauty. These companies are owned by black women and they are sending a message and realization to the beauty industry.

The beauty companies mention previously are causing an effect for other makeup brands to become more inclusive and bring in diversity. We’re slowly but surely watching the beauty industry move in the right direction. I am proud and so happy to see this progression, as it will lead to less issues with finding the perfect dark shade that matches a woman of color. Hopefully, these women will not have to face the struggles of finding a brand who represents what they look like when purchasing makeup.

Representation is Not A Trend

As a I reflect on previous blogs about the importance of representation for black women, it is something I hope stays in the industry forever. I am concern of the beauty industry viewing diversity and inclusion as just a trend because it’s much more than that. Diversity is the foundation (pun intended) that beauty is built upon and women are able to relate to this when they see their selves being represented. With the importance of diversity as a self-reflection, inclusivity needs to be a set exception the industry should follow. I believe companies need to take the time to reach out to people of color (POC) to their benefit and listen to their struggles when trying to purchase makeup.

I do believe the industry is taking a positive pathway to become more inclusive, but I hope it’s due to changing their values and not because they need to react to harsh responses online. For example, back in late 2017 Tarte Cosmetics released their “Shape Tape” foundations with only 3 of the 15 shades being suitable for darker skin. The company received back lash and uproar which caused them to re-evaluate and offer more than 3 darker shades. I hope beauty companies are changing their values rather than to “save face” when receiving negative responses. Makeup brands new and upcoming should note that their brand should be diverse and inclusive from the beginning. It should not be based on a good marketing move, but because there are companies not even realizing the importance of diversity.

Makeup is more than just a product. It’s a way of showing self-expression and to feel a little more confident. This is why, it’s important to find and make products to cater to all women. I understand this blog mainly deals with colorism and discrimination of black women or (POC), but everyone deserves to find a product that makes them feel represented and accounted for. This goes beyond making a profit and marketing plans, it’s about appreciating all diverse skin tones. The industry is slowly changing for the better. I can’t wait to see the level it goes when we stick to diversity and inclusion.

Follow my Instagram @k.b.makeup96 for more beauty content and blog updates!