Ethnicities and Cosmetics: The Relevance of Diversity in the Study and Development of Products
Diversity is an unquestionable reality in the contemporary world, especially in the cosmetics field. Consumers of different ethnicities demand products that meet their specific skin and hair needs. For the industry, this scenario represents a challenge, as well as an innovation opportunity.

Diverse Needs of Skin and Hair
Skin and Hair vary considerably among ethnicities due to genetic, ambient and cultural factors. Studies show that darker skins tend to be more susceptible to hyper pigmentation in case of injuries and more aggressive processes and also present more resistance to sun damage, while lighter skin types are more vulnerable to wrinkles and photo induced damages. In terms of hair, curly hairs are more prone to mechanic fragility and breakage, while straight hair may present more oiliness on the scalp.
Besides biological differences, preferences and expectations also vary. These nuances enhance the necessity of cosmetics formulated based on detailed scientific studies that consider the specificities of each group.
ALS not only has the expertise to develop specific studies focused on the desired ethnicities and population characteristics, but also a technical team trained to find the target audience for your cosmetic in development. Beyond that, ALS has what’s necessary to assist in the identification of actions and results of the products on different ethnicities, whether for hair, scalp or skin.
Safety and Efficiency Tests: Inclusiveness in All Stages
Assuring that a product is efficient and safe to all ethnicities demands an inclusive approach since the beginning of the development. Clinical tests must include volunteers of ethnic profiles, considering the hair and skin conditions of each group. This diversity is essential to guarantee that the product meets a large public’s expectations and safety, minimizing the risk of adverse reactions and maximizing its efficiency.
Many countries demand tests focused on its main ethnic population, although, these tests don’t have to be, necessarily, executed in the product’s register country as long as the tests occur under the pre-established criteria.
ALS with all its presence and laboratories distributed along the two hemispheres is capable of conducting tests simultaneously in different locations and seasons. This approach allows for the assessment of the products’ performance in different climate conditions, increasing results’ reliability.
Segmented Products: Catering to Diversity
The cosmetics field has been registering a significant increase on the demand for inclusive products. According to recent studies, consumers are increasingly willing to invest in cosmetics that recognize and cater to their unique features. This movement is pushing forward the release of segmented lines, that consider the complexity of ethnic and regional differences.
Recently, ALS expanded its operations with the opening of a branch in the city of São Paulo, Brazil, in the traditional Liberdade neighborhood. A strategic mark to cater for the Asian population and its descendants, besides amplifying the number of volunteers with specific skin tones, skin types and specific conditions such as atopic Dermatitis or hair loss. This initiative enhances the company’s commitment in offering personalized services, allied to the diversity of the Brazilian Market, contributing to the launching of more products that meet differences and individual needs, whether related to genetic, ambient or cultural differences.
User Perception: Evidence Based Results
The final consumer’s perception is a crucial factor to any cosmetic’s success. Through detailed tests is possible to measure user’s satisfaction and perceived efficiency, providing valuable data for adjustments and launchings. These tests, when conducted inclusively, ensure that the feedback represents the diversity of the market and meets the regulatory requirements of different countries. Some markets, as the Asian one, require participation of local consumers or descendants in clinical studies, ensuring the validation of the products for these specific populations.
Besides that, ALS offers studies designed to characterize specific skin properties and calibrate consumer perception of claims such as moisturization, glow effect and other sensory attributes. This allows for brands to align their promises to the real user experience, reinforcing the trust and wellbeing provided by their products. ALS’ expertise supports companies wishing to expand globally, through reports and analysis that provide data to meet the requirements of different markets and populations.
ALS’ Differentiators: Partnership for Success
ALS stands out as a strategic partner for cosmetics companies. Its laboratories distributed in various regions of the world allows for the execution of tests with a large diversity of ethnic profiles. Besides that, the advanced infrastructure makes it possible to carry out precise and customized analyses, adapted to the needs of each client.
Combining technology, scientific expertise and a focus on diversity, ALS helps companies in the cosmetics sector deliver high-quality, effective and safe products to all consumers.
Contact us today: beauty.usa@alsglobal.com or call +1 310 214-0043.

Consumer Research and Brand Connection
Brands are increasingly committed to creating meaningful connections with consumers. These connections go beyond products, considering the consumer as a complete human being, with reason, emotion, values, and social interactions. Technology has been an ally in this process, facilitating proximity through social media and allowing for more personalized and humanized communication.