women of color

There isn't one specific skincare regimen that works for everyone, and many product lines don't tackle the specific needs of women of color, such as hyperpigmentation. A new one, however, aims to change that. Dr. Susan Taylor's Rx for Brown Skin is a new line of skin care for light, medium and dark shades of brown skin (think everyone from Lucy Liu to Jennifer Lopez to Eve to Queen Latifah). It was developed by Dr. Susan Taylor, a Harvard-trained dermatologist and the director of the Skin of Color Center in New York City.

The line is divided into products for dry, acne-prone and dull skin types:

• Bright and Healthy: A fragrance- and alcohol-free cleanser, toner and moisturizer for sensitive and dry skin
• Bright and Clear: An acne-fighting trio infused with soy (to even out skin tone) and salicylic acid (to fight pimples)
• Bright and Even: A cleanser, toner, moisturizer and serum with hyaluronic acid (to smooth skin) and glycolic acid (to remove dead skin)

The cleansers, lotions and serums range from $18 to $36, and if you need help figuring out which product collection is right for you, this survey will send you on your way. And if you're looking for a makeup line for brown skin, check out Big Girl Cosmetics, which has tons of options for women of color.

Did you know that some makeup brands don't make their formulations in darker shades? Unfortunately, as any woman of color can tell you, finding foundation can be a formidable task. Big Girl Cosmetics, a small company from Chicago, is trying to change that by offering products in hard-to-find shades.

The preservative-free line includes body scrubs, lip glosses and eye shadow, but the big draw is the foundation. Depending on whether you're looking at powder or cream foundation, there are between five and 19 shades, at least half of which will flatter African-American, Asian and Latina complexions. And the packaging is very urban-chic, too! To see some of my favorite picks from this multicultural line, read more