#MAYBELLINE COLOR MATCH SKIN#
When I heard that Maybelline planned to launch a lipstick collection meant to flatter all skin tones, I was intrigued but skeptical. Looking at digitally rendered colors online or guessing a shade in the drugstore beauty aisle based on its packaging isn't exactly the most effective way to find your match. I wear lipstick every day and rotate between two shades: red and "nude." Far too often, I'm disappointed in the shades I get-reds usually end up too orange, while nudes end up too light peach. Using our specialist team of color chemists we know the specific mix of pigments needed for each shade to work on every skin-tone,” says Jon Saenz, VP of global Maybelline Marketing, Lip. For example, the most universally flattering red must have the perfect balance of yellow and blue.
“It’s all about the right mixture of pigment. The formula apparently has the "perfect mixture of undertones" to look equally amazing on fair, medium, deep skin and everyone in between. There are seven shades-reds, neutrals, and pinks-all of which have been tested “obsessively” on 50 different skin tones, according to the brand. Maybelline wants to get rid of the guesswork with its upcoming launch: Maybelline Color Sensational Made for All Lipsticks ($8 each). When it comes to drugstore brands, it's even more of a gamble, because you typically can't swatch or try lipsticks before you buy them. Just like foundation, lip shades have different undertones that flatter your skin tone (or don't). Having 40 (or more!) shades for a foundation launch is the new normal, and there are more complexion products than ever for everyone to find their match.
Slowly but surely the beauty industry has started waking up to the needs of a diverse customer base.