The beauty industry is no stranger to controversy when it comes to products catering to darker skin tones. The latest uproar surrounds Youthforia, a makeup line that gained fame after receiving a substantial investment on “Shark Tank.” When the brand released its darkest foundation yet, Black women took to social media to express their disappointment.
Golloria George, a dark-skinned beauty influencer, was one of the first to try the new shade. In a viral TikTok video, she compared the foundation to black acrylic paint, calling it “tar in a bottle.” The video garnered millions of views and sparked a conversation about the lack of inclusivity in the beauty industry.
Youthforia, known for its innovative and bio-based beauty products, has faced criticism in the past for its limited shade range. Despite promises of expanding their offerings, the brand continues to face backlash for its lack of consideration for darker skin tones.
Cosmetic chemist Javon Ford weighed in on the controversy, suggesting that Youthforia may have missed the mark by not having a proper color benchmark for their foundation. He pointed out that the formula’s inclusion of a white base results in undertones that appear dark gray, making it an unrealistic match for any skin tone.
Despite the backlash, Youthforia is still selling the controversial Shade 600 foundation. The product is available on the brand’s website and at Ulta, retailing for $48 per bottle.
As the beauty industry continues to grapple with issues of diversity and inclusion, the outcry over Youthforia’s latest release serves as a reminder of the importance of creating products that cater to all skin tones. The conversation sparked by Golloria George’s viral video highlights the need for brands to prioritize inclusivity and representation in their product offerings.
