Almay Foundations for Deeper and Darker Skintones (Black Women and Woman of Color)

Almay: A brand that prides itself on being sustainable with it’s practices as well as creating products that are cruelty free, fragrance free, and doctor tested.

Almays is also known for having products that are hypoallergenic —the term 'hypoallergenic' is a marketing term created to make consumers think that the product will trigger fewer allergic reactions than other products because they use ingredients containing fewer potential allergens (ALLURE). Almay claims to use less than 500 ingredients to make their products and keep them clean. This is especially beneficial for those with sensitive skin.

The company founded in 1931, is also known for having the one of the least diverse shade ranges within their product lines until recent years. This blatant lack of diversity is seen throughout their advertising as all of their spokesmodels appear to have the “simple, luminous and fresh-faced” look of American beauty aka straight blonde/brunette hair and fairer complexion. (I promised myself I won’t go to into this, so if you want to read a detailed post about their history of inclusivity here is a good one).

Despite the lack of inclusivity throughout the years, I am gladly reviewing this brand for you because of it’s simple claims. I see this brand as I see Neutrogena and Revlon products, which is: great for the skin (that is, if you can find your shade).

With the past three foundation launches two darker shades were added: Mocha and Cappuccino.

Almay Best Blend Forever Foundation

• Foundation and moisturizer in one

• Hydrates skin for up to 8 hours.

• Protects with Broad Spectrum SPF 40.

• Available in 12 shades.

It's a makeup, it's a moisturizer, it's amazing. Buildable coverage with lightweight and comfortable feel.

Color Finish: Semi-matte, natural

Cosmetic Coverage: Buildable, light

Skin Undertone: Neutral, warm, cool

Recommended Skin Type: Normal

SPF: 40

Features: Dermatologist tested, moisturizing, Lightweight

Almay Clear Complexion Foundation

• Helps clear and prevent acne blemishes

• Soft, matte finish with buildable coverage

• 14 shades

Almay Clear Complexion makeup helps clear and prevent acne blemishes while it conceals, so your complexion looks beautiful, shine-free and even all day. Product contains lightweight, maximum strength salicylic acid formula that helps clear and heal blemishes and prevent future breakouts. It provides a refreshing effect while minimizing the appearance of pores leaving your skin feeling hydrated and soothed. It contains the maximum level strength salicylic acid to help your skin look its best every day. Product is hypoallergenic and fragrance-free

Cosmetic Coverage: Medium

Skin Undertone: Cool, neutral, warm

Beauty Purpose: Concealing, oil control, skin tone improvement

Almay Skin Perfecting Comfort Matte Foundation

• 16 hour wear that leaves skin shine free.

• matte finish

Almay Skin Perfecting Comfort Matte Foundation formula evens out your skin tone, reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and blurs the look of imperfections. The lightweight formula feels incredibly comfortable on your skin—and wears for up to 16 hours. Skin feels smooth and moisturized, and looks naturally shine free.