Empowerment and Thriving: Black Women in the Spotlight on ‘Love Island’ – Essence

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‘Love Island’ Star’s Under-Eye Look Drives Makeup Trend-and How To Recreate It

A luminous under-eye has become the latest beauty obsession, championed by reality television and fueled by a desire for a refreshed, camera-ready appearance. Olandria Carthen, a contestant on the television program ‘Love Island’ USA, has seen her signature, bright under-eye makeup become incredibly popular, with makeup artists and fans alike attempting to replicate the look. The trend is about more than just covering dark circles; it’s about sculpting and illuminating the face for a vibrant, youthful glow.

The Rise Of The Brightened Under-Eye

The appeal of this technique extends beyond aesthetics. experts say the under-eye area frequently betrays signs of fatigue, stress, and lifestyle-factors many people now prefer to conceal. According to a 2023 report from the NPD Group, concealer sales increased by 12% year-over-year, indicating a growing consumer focus on achieving a flawless base. From high-fashion runways like Vivienne Westwood’s Fall/Winter 2025 show to celebrities seeking a polished look on busy schedules, the brightened-under-eye trend is gaining momentum.

Carthen’s application of this technique, while living in the ‘Love Island’ villa, brought the look to the forefront. Makeup professionals say the look creates the appearance of being well-rested, even when sleep is limited.

decoding Olandria’s Signature Look

Professional makeup artists have broken down Carthen’s style, noting the strategic use of highlighting and lifting techniques. Naïma Bremer, a global artistry ambassador at Fenty Beauty, describes the look as bright, fresh, and modern. Deney Adam, a Senior Artist at MAC, emphasizes how the technique enhances bone structure and creates a sculpted appearance.

Why Is This Trend Popular Now?

The desire for a brightened under-eye is driven by a societal push for a perpetually “put-together” appearance. Consumers are increasingly informed and skilled in makeup application, thanks to the proliferation of online tutorials and social media content.This accessibility has transformed onc-exclusive techniques into everyday practices.

“It’s a simple but transformative step that makes you look well-rested, even if you’re not,” Bremer explains.

Achieving The Look: A Step-by-Step Guide

Successfully recreating this look relies on careful product selection and precise application. Experts recommend the following:

selecting The Right concealer

Choosing the correct concealer shade is crucial. Adam suggests starting with your foundation shade and going two to three shades lighter. For a more dramatic effect, consider a shade three to four shades lighter than your skin tone, but opposite your undertone. If you’re not sure about your undertone, stick to neutral, cool, or peach-based concealers. Popular product choices include Maybelline instant Age Rewind Multi-Use Concealer, MAC Cosmetics Studio Fix Concealer, and Fenty Beauty We’re Even Hydrating Longwear concealer.

The Importance of Corrective Powders

Powder selection is just as important as concealer. Adam advises matching the powder to your skin’s undertone, going one to two shades lighter for optimal setting. Bremer stresses the importance of color correction to prevent ashiness.Products like Fenty Beauty Bright Fix Instant Brightening + Blurring Powder and Maybelline Fit Me Loose Finishing powder can set the concealer and provide color correction simultaneously.

Here’s a quick comparison:

Product Type	Key Feature	Recommended Use
Concealer	Brightening,Coverage	Apply to inner corners and blend upwards
Setting Powder	color Correction,Setting	Lightly dust over concealer for a flawless finish

The Full Application Process

1. Skin Readiness: Begin with a lightweight moisturizer or Sun Protection Factor (SPF).
2. Concealer Application: Apply concealer to the inner corner of the under-eye area and blend upwards towards the temple.
3. Resting Period: Allow the concealer to sit for a few minutes before blending.
4. Blending Techniques: Use a damp makeup sponge, brush, or your fingers to blend evenly.
5. Setting with Powder: Apply a
   
   

   How can reality TV producers actively move beyond superficial diversity and foster genuine empowerment for Black women contestants?

   Redefining Reality TV Narratives

   For years, reality television frequently enough presented limited and stereotypical portrayals of Black women. Though, recent seasons of Love Island (both the UK and US versions) have begun to shift this narrative, showcasing the multifaceted experiences, strength, and agency of Black women. This isn’t just about depiction; itS about empowerment and actively thriving within a highly visible, often critical, space. The impact extends beyond entertainment, influencing broader conversations around beauty standards, dating, and self-worth. Key terms driving this discussion include Black representation in media, diversity on reality TV, and empowered black women.

   The Evolution of Representation: From Stereotypes to Substance

   Historically,Black women on reality TV were frequently cast into roles that reinforced harmful tropes – the “angry Black woman,” the “sassy friend,” or simply relegated to the sidelines. Recent Love Island contestants are actively dismantling these expectations.

   Challenging Beauty Standards: Contestants like Ekin-Su Cülcüloğlu (while not Black, her influence on challenging Eurocentric beauty standards paved the way) and subsequent Black female islanders have demonstrated that beauty is diverse and multifaceted. This challenges the narrow definitions often presented in mainstream media.

   Owning Their Narratives: Unlike previous seasons where storylines were often about black women, rather than from them, recent contestants have taken control of their narratives, showcasing their intelligence, ambition, and vulnerability.

   Navigating Colorism & texturism: Discussions surrounding colorism and texturism – discrimination based on skin tone and hair texture – have begun to surface organically within the show and in post-show commentary, sparking meaningful conversations.

   The Impact on Viewership & Social Media Engagement

   The increased visibility of Black women on Love Island has demonstrably impacted viewership and social media engagement.

   1. Increased viewership Among Diverse Audiences: A more inclusive cast attracts a wider audience, leading to higher ratings and increased brand partnerships.
   2. Positive Social Media Buzz: Contestants who embody confidence and authenticity often garner significant support on platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok. This translates into increased influence and opportunities.
   3. Demand for Authentic Storytelling: Viewers are increasingly demanding authentic representation and are quick to call out tokenism or superficial diversity efforts. Authenticity is a key driver of engagement.

   Beyond the Villa: Career opportunities & Influence

   The platform provided by Love Island can be transformative for Black women, opening doors to career opportunities and amplifying their voices.

   Brand Partnerships & Influencer Marketing: Prosperous islanders frequently enough secure lucrative brand deals, leveraging their social media following to promote products and services. Influencer marketing is a significant revenue stream.

   Media Appearances & Public Speaking: The visibility gained on the show can lead to opportunities in media, including television appearances, podcast interviews, and public speaking engagements.

   Entrepreneurial Ventures: Many former islanders have launched their own businesses, capitalizing on their newfound platform and influence. Examples include fashion lines, beauty brands, and lifestyle businesses.

   Addressing the Challenges: Online Harassment & Scrutiny

   Despite the positive strides, Black women on Love Island continue to face unique challenges, notably online harassment and scrutiny.

   Racist & Sexist Tropes: Contestants are often subjected to racist and sexist comments on social media, perpetuating harmful stereotypes.

   Unfair Media Coverage: Media coverage can sometimes focus on superficial aspects of their appearance or relationships, rather than their personalities and accomplishments.

   The Pressure to Represent: there’s often an unspoken expectation for Black women to represent the entire community, which can be a heavy burden. Intersectionality plays a crucial role in understanding these pressures.

   The Role of Allies & continued Advocacy

   Creating a truly inclusive and empowering surroundings on Love Island requires the active participation of allies and continued advocacy.

   Calling Out Bias: Viewers and media outlets must actively call out bias and challenge harmful stereotypes.

   Supporting Black-Owned Businesses: Supporting the entrepreneurial ventures of former islanders is a tangible way to demonstrate solidarity.

   Demanding diverse Casting: Advocating for diverse casting practices is essential to ensure that Love Island continues to reflect the richness and complexity of the real world.

   Keywords: Love Island, Black women, empowerment, representation, diversity, reality TV, influencer marketing, colorism, texturism, authenticity, intersectionality, Black representation in media, *diversity