Two University of Michigan professors have linked makeup application techniques and technology by offering online lessons.

The lessons are now a click away by uploading “Equitable Stage and Makeup and Hair course” how-to videos. The idea is the brainchild of costume designer and technology professor Sarah Oliver. She says she’s been intentional about increasing diversity in the theatre profession and uses the videos to address her opposition to public overrepresentation of beauty as lighter skin tones and straighter hair textures.

“The goal of this project is to ensure that there’s training for all skin tones and all hair textures,” Oliver said. “We worked really hard to make sure that the people giving the instruction were experts in the field and performers and students having makeup put on in the videos have a full range of skin tone.”

The nearly $600 billion per year cosmetic and hair industry is taking notice. A consumer research report, “Inclusive Beauty Drives Sales: An AI-Powered Road Map for the Beauty Industry,” reveals companies with inclusive products grow faster than their competitors who don’t market their brands to diverse buyers.

Since launching in 2024, more than 1,800 viewers have taken the course to learn tips on camouflaging bruises, applying special effects and drag makeup. Creators hope the videos will reach high school and college educators or anyone who wants to sharpen their skills.