Inclusive beauty refers to makeup products created for everyone, regardless of gender, skin tone, or age. For the longest time, makeup brands had consistently disappointed BIPOC individuals. Finding a foundation that flawlessly complemented melanin-rich skin proved to be quite a challenge. However, it was Rihanna, a Grammy-award-winning artist turned makeup mogul, who initially disrupted the beauty sector with her groundbreaking makeup line, Fenty Beauty, embodying the ethos of ‘beauty for all.’ Her inaugural foundation collection boasted an unprecedented 40 shades, a previously unseen feat. This move by Rihanna fundamentally transformed the beauty industry, jolting competitors into doing and being better.
Since then, the beauty industry has made significant strides in embracing inclusivity. Although these changes occurred later than they ideally should have, it’s great to see there are brands who are taking it seriously. We wanted to pay homage to the companies that offer the broadest range of foundation shades, ensuring that their products cater to as many people as possible. From budget-friendly to high-end, consider this your go-to guide the next time you’re shopping for a foundation that perfectly matches your complexion.
Mac Cosmetics
Mac Cosmetics is a trailblazer in the makeup industry, their Studio Fix Fluid Foundation comes in an impressive range of 63 shades. With such a large number of shades available, it’s impossible not to find the perfect match for your skin tone. This iconic foundation not only provides buildable coverage but is also known for its long-lasting formula. Perfect for those who seek a versatile foundation for daily wear or special occasions. Don’t be shy to pass by any MAC store for shade matching, the Studio Fix Fluid foundation retails for KES 7,350.
Fenty Beauty
As mentioned earlier, Fenty Beauty by Rihanna set the gold standard for inclusivity in the beauty world. A year and a half after releasing her foundation collection of 40 shades, she expanded the Pro Filt’r foundation range to include 50 shades. There has also been an introduction of Limited edition shades further extending the Pro Filt’r foundation range to 59 shades. “I wanted to take Pro Filt’r beyond skin tone to serve all skin types.
Nothing is more important to me than making sure that everyone feels included,” Rihanna said during an interview with Paper Magazine. The formula’s soft matte finish has garnered a cult following, making it a must-have for those who desire a natural yet flawless look. Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r foundation is available at Lintons Beauty and retails for KES 8,450.
Lancome
Lancôme’s Teint Idole Ultra 24H Long Wear Foundation is a high-end choice with 50 diverse shades. This foundation is known for its oil-free formula and impressive staying power. Its long-lasting 24-hour-wear promises you won’t have to touch up your face again for the entire day, this hard-working formulation was the brand’s first-ever 24-hour foundation.
The Teint Idole range of shades ensures that everyone can find their ideal match while enjoying a full coverage, natural-matte finish. This foundation retails for KES 8,300 at Lintons Beauty.
Maybelline
If it isn’t already obvious, we are a little obsessed with this brand. Maybelline may be a drugstore brand but it doesn’t mean they can’t compete with more expensive luxury brands. For those on a budget, Maybelline’s Fit Me Matte + Poreless Foundation (in glass-bottled packaging) is a game-changer. With an expansive range of 40 shades, this drugstore favorite offers a matte finish that blurs pores and controls shine.
Maybelline’s commitment to inclusivity without compromising quality makes this foundation a staple. The Fit Me Matte + Poreless foundation retails for KES 1,500 for the glass-bottled packaging available at BeautyBar, while the regular Fit Me foundation retails for KES 1,105 from Jumia.
Estee Lauder
Estée Lauder’s most iconic product is the Double Wear Stay-in-Place foundation which has amassed a bit of a cult following. With over 55 shades in a range of cool, neutral, and warm undertones, your perfect shade match is guaranteed. If you like long-lasting, medium-to-full coverage foundations, then double wear should be your go-to. With its oil-free formula and SPF 10 protection, this foundation is perfect for a flawless complexion.
Estee Lauder Double-Wear Stay-in-Place foundation is priced at KES 9,650, you can purchase it here if you already know your foundation shade, or you can walk into your nearest Lintons Beauty store for shade matching.
Nyx
Developed in collaboration with beauty vlogger Alissa Ashley back in 2018, NYX’s Can’t Stop Won’t Stop Foundation is a budget-friendly option boasting 45 carefully curated shades. “We tried to fit in as many different undertones as possible. “I’m always mixing two shades and a lot of people have that same problem, so we tried to eliminate that by making a lot of those in-between shades.”- Alissa Ashley
Described as a shockingly lightweight yet full-coverage foundation, this product is a favorite among those with oily skin and its extensive shade range ensures that everyone can find a match without breaking the bank.
It’s crucial to identify the beauty brands that prioritize diversity in their product development and rally behind these inclusive brands. No longer do you need to resort to blending two or three foundation shades in an attempt to achieve your perfect match. In the ever-evolving makeup world, these brands have risen to the challenge by offering inclusive foundation shade ranges that cater to the diverse beauty of all individuals.
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