What is Diversity and Why is it Important in Redefining the Beauty Industry?

The beauty industry is making strides in diversity, but what is diversity anyway? How does it apply to beauty? What role does it play in redefining the standards against which we measure our own attractiveness and, ultimately, our self-worth? 

“Diversity” is defined as the condition of having or being composed of differing elements, and the inclusion of people of different races, cultures, etc., in a group or organization. Diversity in the workplace, universities, and other circles of interaction is crucial because it encourages healthy conversations that we would otherwise not have made. According to Google, society is going in the right direction, stating that by 2025, workers from underrepresented groups would fill 30% of leadership positions. And by 2044, current minority groups will reach majority status.

When we talk about diversity in beauty, we mean having proper representation of skin colors, skin types, and skin issues, not to mention the different genders, sexual orientations, ages, shapes, and sizes of the individuals that contribute to this multi-billion-dollar industry. Since beauty brands mainly deal with physical appearances, it’s only fair to provide equal representation to the many different-looking people in the world. 

Talk of diversity plays a key role in redefining the unrealistic standards perpetuated by the beauty industry. The shift in conversation on mainstream media from “10 ways to get your dream beach bod” or “how to get perfect skin in 2 weeks” to “how to love the skin you’re in” sends an empowering message to girls and women. Even social media is in on the action. Beauty hashtags like #morenaandproud, #skinpositivity, #honormycurves, and #celebratemysize are all over Instagram, creating waves of awareness all over the world.

However, challenging beauty standards is more than just about trends. As a popular National Geographic article writes, who we deem beautiful reflects our values, and all these changes show that we’re getting closer to a more inclusive world, online and off. Diversity from beauty brands and other beauty platforms holds the key to changing the way we see beauty by showing — not just telling — how there’s more than one kind of beauty. 

Embrace your unique beauty with products that celebrate you. Dove is a body-positive brand that creates skincare that makes you feel confident in the skin you’re in. Their classic Dove Beauty Nourishing Body Wash combines NutriumMoisture and mild cleansers to help your skin retain its natural moisture, leaving it softer and smoother.

Another brand is Love Beauty and Planet, which sources ingredients ethically from around the world. A product to try is the Love Beauty and Planet Coconut Water & Mimosa Flower Volume and Bounty Shampoo – it’s a blend that replenishes and hydrates fine hair without weighing it down.

Finally, celebrate your individuality confidently with a deodorant that cares for your skin while protecting it. Dove Radiant + Care Deodorant Dry Serum 3% Niacinamide 10x Collagen Deep Renew accelerates skin renewal and reduces pigmentation on the underarms. It is a fast-absorbing formula that goes on light and dries instantly, so you also get an immediate boost of confidence after applying.

What is diversity, really? At the grassroots level, it’s doing our part to ensure everyone is represented and show everyone that we love our skin and bodies – pimples and curves and all.