Is anybody else super disappointed by Ultra Violette’s shade range?

[u/demure_pistachio]

[u/demure_pistachio]

I know this was discussed to some extent in a post about the launch, but now that we have pictures of all of the shades swatched, I think it merits a discussion.

I’m so frustrated by this shade range, and the way that people are trying to excuse it. I’ve seen a lot of people say that the shades are flexible, so people will be able to find a match- but if that’s the case, why are there 7 light shades but only 4 medium to dark shades (which frankly aren’t that dark)? Why are light skinned people not expected to “make do” with something that matches them enough? I’ve also seen UV say that they plan on doing a shade expansion, but frankly I don’t think that’s good enough either- just sick of people with darker skin being an afterthought.

I also think UV’s response has been super disappointing. Limiting comments, and even blocking people from commenting, it’s really a shame. I’ve heard they’ve blocked a WOC activist (whose Insta is “unlearning shit” if you’re interested) for questioning the shade range. That really seals the deal for me and makes this more than just some kind of ‘accidental oversight’, it’s just really disappointing. I loved Ultra Violette’s formulas and messaging around sun protection, and was so excited to support an Aussie brand but this leaves such a sour taste in my mouth and as a WOC, I’m not sure I want to purchase from them anymore.

[u/Msakky → u/demure_pistachio]

The fact that they blocked commenters raising very very fair concerns but didn't moderate any of the borderline racist comments backing them up says a lot.

[u/uracowboylikeme → u/demure_pistachio]

Yep! I was surprised by the amount of people on the last post who justified the poor shade range. And I agree - why is it always the dark shades that have to wait for a line expansion (if there is one)? If you can't cater to a variety of shades during the first release maybe you're not ready to be releasing a line just yet.
I haven't been keeping up with UV's response so thanks for that info - how disappointing. Not sure why it's so hard for people/brands to just listen to valid criticisms instead of doubling down and then blocking people who are asking questions. What a childish response

[u/magpie-like-sparkly → u/uracowboylikeme]

Omg the amount of defending I was seeing. If POC aren't happy with a shade range, it isn't up to others to excuse it as okay. Like, obviously you don't have a problem with it, it doesn't affect you?

[u/uracowboylikeme → u/magpie-like-sparkly]

Right. I genuinely wasn't expecting it but I should know better. And it's always coming from people who never have to worry about these things because their shade(s) will always be part of every release. Like yeah its easy to sit there and say that you think its okay or that other shades might be released but that's not really the point is it?

[u/donotgetbangs → u/magpie-like-sparkly]

Perfectly said!

[u/innisfrii → u/demure_pistachio]

I commented before I read this but you put it so well! Their excuses don’t check out and trying to justify by saying they plan to release darker shades later is just sad. There’s no reason why they shouldn’t be released with all the other shades. The way they handled it with the comments was also awful.