Scarlette French, a 13-year-old from Oneida Nation of the Thames near London, Ontario, has a passion for punk rock music, dark clothing, and experimenting with makeup despite her severe vision loss due to an eye disorder. To help her navigate her makeup routine, Scarlette affixed braille labels to her makeup containers. However, Tiffany Houston, CEO of the Shine Foundation, noticed the challenges Scarlette faced and decided to make her dream of a makeover come true.
Collaborating with the Canadian National Institute for the Blind, Houston reached out to Cheekbone Beauty, an Indigenous-owned makeup brand based in St. Catharines, to create “Scarlette’s Palette.” This innovative makeup palette is among the first of its kind, featuring tactile elements and an audio description to assist blind and visually impaired individuals in applying makeup independently.
The palette includes three lip and cheek creams, two highlighters, and one powder blush, all housed in a user-friendly case with raised edges around each product for easy identification by touch. Additionally, a QR code on the palette links to an audio guide that explains how to use the products and describes each shade, providing a more accessible option for those who cannot read braille.
While only 20 prototype palettes have been produced, Scarlette and Houston hope that Scarlette’s Palette will inspire discussions among beauty brands and organizations about enhancing accessibility in the beauty industry. Scarlette’s mother, Samantha Kennedy, noted the positive impact the palette had on her daughter’s confidence and self-care routine, expressing hope that others with disabilities will have similar empowering experiences.
Scarlette, now the face of a makeup palette, aspires to pursue a career as a musician and social media influencer, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and empowerment for individuals with disabilities. She encourages others to embrace their passions and talents, regardless of any visual impairments they may have, highlighting the significance of accessibility and representation in the beauty world.