Christal Alert’s Brand Is for People Who Deserve More From Their Makeup
Because makeup and skin health shouldn’t be separate conversations.
Makeup powered by skincare might sound like an easy sell, but it’s not exactly top of mind for most beauty brands. For Christal Alert, though, it’s a non-negotiable. Frustrated by the lack of skin-loving beauty options, she created Tonal Cosmetics — a line of long-lasting, humidity and heat-resistant formulas designed to empower individuals to take control of their health. Her hero product, the “Sunveil” SPF 50 Skin Defense Foundation, does this and more — protecting your skin from the sun, acting as a humetact, and reducing levels of sebum, all while providing seamless coverage.
In fact, “Sunveil” is so impressive that it’s garnered the attention of beauty giant Sephora. As one of the brand’s 2025 Accelerate Incubator program participants, she is gaining access to invaluable industry expertise and mentorship as she takes Tonal to the next level. We spoke with Alert to dive deeper into Tonal’s mission, her transition from cosmetic chemist to brand founder and why she’s dreaming big with a potential collaboration with fellow Caribbean powerhouse Rihanna.
On the creation of Tonal Cosmetics
Growing up in the Caribbean, I saw firsthand what years of unprotected sun exposure could do — hyperpigmentation, premature aging and even skin cancer. Fast forward to my career as a cosmetic scientist and I was floored when I learned that 65% of women skip sunscreen entirely — many because they’ve been burned (literally and figuratively) by formulas that weren’t designed with them in mind. I knew there had to be a better way. Makeup and skin health shouldn’t be separate conversations. So, I created Tonal — where every formula is an investment in your skin, not just a cover-up. You don’t have to choose between looking good today and keeping your skin at its best for years to come.
On Tonal’s mission
Tonal is redefining beauty by placing skin health at its core. Our products are designed to seamlessly elevate your routine — protective, high-performance and sophisticated in a way that feels truly transformative. We’re investing in your skin’s future by delivering beauty that does more so you can do less.
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On her favorite products
Our “Sunveil” is a true game-changer. Its weightless texture feels like nothing but delivers everything: broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection and “your skin, but better” coverage. Plus, our patented hyaluronic acid complex boosts hydration by 40%, treating your skin in the moment and over time. Also, stay tuned — we’re working on a cream-to-powder blush that’s unlike anything you’ve tried. Imagine a texture so innovative it practically melts into your skin, leaving behind the perfect lush that lasts — I can’t stop wearing it.
On why she loves makeup
I’ve always loved how makeup can be a vehicle for self-expression. It permits you to tell your story, to show the world who you are or who you want to be for the day.
On her greatest inspiration
My mom has never been one for trends or elaborate beauty routines, but the way she carries herself — unapologetically confident and authentically herself — has always been my greatest inspiration. She’s my reminder that true beauty isn’t in the mirror; it’s in how you show up in the world. And that’s the kind of beauty that moves me.
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On working with Rihanna
A collaboration with Rihanna would be nothing short of iconic. As two women with roots in Barbados and Guyana, it would be a powerful celebration of Caribbean excellence. I’m not sure what the partnership would look like yet, but I know this: it would elevate what we already know to be true — the Caribbean is a force. Together, we’d make that undeniable.
On Tonal’s future
In five years, Tonal will be a legacy brand known for innovation, trust and timeless beauty. We’ll be the brand you turn to to elevate your routine. But we’re not stopping there. We’ll curate unforgettable experiences that bring people together, transforming beauty from a daily ritual into a moment of connection. Tonal won’t just be in your bag — it’ll be part of your story.
While you’re here, check out our round-up of winter sunscreens.
