Are cosmetics formulated for darker skin? | AJ Addae | TEDxManhattanBeach

Inclusivity Gaps in the Beauty Industry - Cosmetic science research and major beauty brands have historically underrepresented darker skin tones [3] - The Fitzpatrick scale, a clinical standard in dermatology, inadequately represents the diversity of darker skin tones [4][5][6] - There is a lack of skincare products and treatments specifically designed for darker skin tones [7][8] - Dermatology education often lacks sufficient training on chronic skin conditions in darker skin tones [7] Scientific and Product Development Challenges - Many skincare and beauty brands make efficacy claims for all skin tones without adequate testing [10] - Sunscreens are often not formulated to blend well into darker skin tones, leading to white cast [10][11] - It takes longer for hyperpigmentation treatments to show efficacy on darker skin tones [15] - 48% of African-American consumers report difficulty finding skincare products that meet their needs [16] - Black consumers are almost three times more likely to be dissatisfied with product offerings than white consumers [16] Economic Opportunity and Funding - Addressing racial inequity in the beauty industry represents a $26 billion (2.6% billion) opportunity [20] - Black-owned beauty brands return 89 times more than non-Black-owned brands but receive half the venture capital funding [20]