Sarah Kinonen is the associate beauty director at Allure, specializing in the intersection of cosmetic science, regulatory policy, and global beauty trends. Based in Brooklyn, her work empowers consumers through meticulously researched analyses of skincare innovations and industry practices.
"Beauty journalism isn’t just about what’s new—it’s about what’s safe, effective, and equitable for consumers."
Sarah Kinonen is an associate beauty director at Allure, where she combines rigorous scientific analysis with global cultural insights to explore the evolving landscape of skincare and cosmetics. With over a decade of experience, her work bridges regulatory frameworks, ingredient innovation, and consumer trends.
Kinonen’s career began in editorial roles focused on lifestyle and wellness, gradually narrowing to beauty journalism. Her tenure at Allure since the mid-2010s has solidified her reputation for dissecting complex topics like FDA sunscreen regulations and cross-cultural beauty practices. Key phases include:
This 2023 piece contrasts US and Japanese sunscreen regulations, highlighting Japan’s faster approval process for UV filters. Kinonen personalizes the narrative by testing Japanese sunscreens, noting their lightweight textures and broader UV spectrum protection. The article spurred reader demand for international products and raised awareness about regulatory stagnation in the US.
Kinonen interviews dermatologists and regulatory experts to explain the FDA’s drug-based classification of sunscreens, which delays new ingredient approvals. She critiques the resulting reliance on older UV filters like oxybenzone, linking it to consumer skepticism about efficacy. The article is frequently cited in advocacy for modernized US cosmetic laws.
In this Instagram series, Kinonen breaks down emerging treatments like LED therapy and peptide-infused products. Her accessible explanations demystify scientific jargon, making advanced skincare relatable to a broad audience.
Kinonen prioritizes stories that expose gaps in beauty industry regulations or highlight innovative ingredients. Pitches should include data from clinical studies or interviews with chemists/dermatologists. Example: Her sunscreen coverage cites FDA documentation and contrasts it with Japan’s quasi-cosmetic classification.
She frequently examines how beauty standards diverge globally. Successful pitches might explore European anti-aging trends or African skincare rituals, emphasizing their scientific validity. Avoid superficial "exoticism" narratives.
Kinonen’s work often empowers readers to demand better products. Pitches could address greenwashing in "clean beauty" marketing or affordability gaps in medical-grade skincare.
While specific awards aren’t listed publicly, Kinonen’s influence is evident through:
At PressContact, we aim to help you discover the most relevant journalists for your PR efforts. If you're looking to pitch to more journalists who write on Beauty, here are some other real estate journalist profiles you may find relevant:
