There's no denying that, in its long history, the beauty industry has often represented one standard of beauty. We look to those who are championing inclusivity
Our notions of beauty are often shaped by culture. For decades, if not centuries, make-up has promoted outdated visions of beauty that's rooted in society's obsession with youth, femininity and Eurocentric standards.
But just as globalisation has reshaped society, norms surrounding beauty are also beginning to shift with key figures stepping up their efforts to promote more inclusive products.
Here are three reasons behind the industry's move towards diversity, which–here at Hong Kong Tatler–we think is worth celebrating.
See also: Chanel's First Make-up Line For Men Launches In Hong Kong
Make-up artists making a difference
Known for his innovative use of colour and ability to create beautiful complexions with a few sweeps of highlighter, New York-based make-up artist Hung Vanngo was born in Vietnam. He moved to Canada with his single mother and two siblings after the end of the Vietnam War.
A young Vanngo would spend hours recreating his favourite make-up looks—favouring the likes of Kevyn Aucoin and François Nars—and he is now one of the most in-demand artists worldwide.
Most notably, Vanngo has made headlines for making the beauty world more diverse through collaborations with companies including Marc Jacobs, with whom he launched its 29-shade Shameless foundation line.
Other make-up artists who are making strides towards inclusivity include legendary artist Pat McGrath of Pat McGrath Labs, who has defined runway looks for countless brands–Prada, Armani, Louis Vuitton and Balenciaga, to name a few.
And Bobbi Brown, who launched her debut line in 1991 after finding it was almost impossible to find foundation that matched models' skin.