The transformative power of makeup is undeniable. A swipe of red lipstick can instantly boost confidence, while a spritz of perfume can make you feel more comfortable in your own skin. But what about those who face challenges in applying makeup due to disabilities? This is where the concept of adaptive beauty comes in, a movement that champions inclusivity by creating products and tools tailored for everyone.
Traditionally, beauty rituals have been viewed as symbols of conformity, encouraging people to adhere to certain standards of appearance. However, adaptive beauty flips this narrative by recognizing the unique needs and preferences of individuals with disabilities, empowering them to express themselves freely.
For years, makeup artist Trishna Daswaney has been conducting workshops for the transgender, cancer care, and motor disability communities, witnessing firsthand the barriers faced by individuals with disabilities. A stray comment in one of her workshops about people with disabilities being discouraged from wearing makeup fueled her passion to create a line of inclusive makeup tools. This led to the birth of Kohl Kreatives, a brand that offers makeup tools specifically designed for those with motor disabilities and visual impairments.
Kohl Kreatives features innovative designs like handles shaped for a better grip, cuboid handles to prevent brushes from rolling, and braille labels for accessibility. The products are not only functional but also luxurious, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the transformative power of makeup without compromise.
The adaptive beauty movement has also caught the attention of major beauty conglomerates. L’Oréal, for instance, introduced HAPTA in 2023, a handheld smart makeup applicator designed for individuals with limited hand and arm mobility. This innovative device combines advanced sensors and motion-stabilising technology to provide a steady application of lipstick, empowering users to embrace their beauty routine with ease.
Beyond L’Oréal, other companies are making strides in adaptive beauty. Celebrity-led brand Guide Beauty, founded by Terri Bryant and Selma Blair, offers a range of user-friendly eyeliner application tools and more. Estée Lauder’s UK app features a voice-enabled virtual assistant, guiding visually impaired users through their makeup application.
These innovations demonstrate the growing commitment to inclusivity in the beauty industry. Adaptive tools are not merely about making makeup accessible; they are about creating a world where everyone feels empowered to express their unique beauty. The message is clear: beauty is for everyone, regardless of ability.
The stories behind these innovations are particularly inspiring. Trishna Daswaney’s journey was fueled by her mother’s lupus diagnosis, while Terri Bryant and Selma Blair’s experiences with Parkinson’s and multiple sclerosis, respectively, fueled their desire to make makeup accessible for everyone. These individuals understood the transformative power of makeup, the confidence it can instill, and its ability to create a sense of self-expression for those who may feel marginalized.
Ultimately, adaptive beauty is about more than just products. It’s about embracing inclusivity, challenging societal norms, and celebrating the beauty that exists within each individual. As the movement continues to gain momentum, we can expect to see more innovative products and tools that empower everyone to embrace their own unique beauty.
