Artificial intelligence (AI) is disrupting industries across the board, and beauty is no different. What was previously only possible with manual operations and in-person experiences is now translating to digital platforms thanks to AI, completely transforming the cosmetics sector in the process.
Consumers are demanding greater access to products and services, higher levels of personalisation, and enhanced immersive experiences. The beauty field is responding with innovative technological solutions to meet this demand.
Here are some of the recent AI and tech trends influencing the industry.
Virtual try-ons with AI/VR
Having the ability to try on different hairstyles, hair colours, and makeup looks without lifting a finger might seem like a far-off dream. But with generative artificial intelligence, this is now a reality. A number of beauty apps on the market combine virtual reality (VR) capabilities with AI to make digital try-ons possible and viable for consumers.
These applications can map out the face with surprising accuracy by determining your facial features using the phone’s built-in facial scanning technology. As such, they make virtual beauty try-ons and online product sampling effortless.
Whether users want to try unique hair colours or several lipstick shades to find the perfect option, there is an app for that.
Advanced skin analysis
Skin analysis powered by AI is a growing trend in the beauty industry, representing a technology that examines an individual’s complexion in great detail using advanced AI algorithms.
By visiting a modern skincare clinic equipped with the right technology, customers can make use of their live camera modes and analysing tools to identify skin conditions and characteristics such as skin type, pores, wrinkles, dark spots, and acne. Based on the results, professionals can provide clients with customised skincare routines and product suggestions.
This type of personalisation can enable targeted treatments and improve skin results, as well as increase overall client satisfaction.
Automated hair procedures
Artificial intelligence has greatly streamlined restorative hair procedures. Many clinics offering hair transplant in Australia have implemented cutting-edge technology solutions into their beauty procedures to ensure high precision and positive, natural-looking results.
For instance, some clinics use AI-enabled laser-guided robots to extract individual hair follicles and transplant them into determined hairline designs while being guided by a physician.
With robotic hair restoration, AI simplifies identifying the density, position, and angle of hair follicles, thus allowing for scalp stereoscopic mapping and ensuring the follicles are preserved during the transplantation process. Along with improving the functionality of procedural techniques, this also aids in optimising the accuracy and efficiency of results.
Smart mirror technology
Smart mirrors collect a user’s personal data to provide customised beauty insights and optimise daily routines. These ‘magic mirrors’ come with a variety of features, including Wi-Fi connectivity, voice-enabled controls, microscopic skin analysis with built-in sensors and cameras, and adjustable lighting
The built-in cameras use artificial intelligence and augmented reality (AR) to superimpose desired products directly on the user’s reflection. Customers can use smart mirrors for a variety of tasks, from performing an analysis of their skin to previewing beauty products and outfits.
Smart mirrors can make even the simplest routines more immersive and engaging, whether you’re following an online makeup tutorial or simply listening to music while getting ready for bed.
3D-printed cosmetics
While 3D printed solutions have dominated industrial fields for quite some time, they are now gaining momentum in the beauty sector, offering new levels of creativity and customisation.
One interesting example featured in Elle Magazine is the novel 3D makeup printer that enables users to turn any digital image into wearable cosmetics. The printer deposits ink on a surface covered by powder, thus creating powder makeup products that can be used instantly.
This innovation has disrupted the cosmetics industry, encouraging other companies to follow suit. As a result, products such as 3D cosmetic pens were created – they scan the user’s face and develop a foundation shade that’s perfectly matched to the individual’s skin tone.
Digital beauty advisors
With the sudden growth of e-commerce and multi-channel sales, brands were forced to transform how their products and services are marketed to customers. As a result, virtual consultations are becoming a more common aspect of beauty company websites.
Virtual advisors use generative AI to provide consumers with streamlined shopping experiences and easier ways to navigate extensive product offerings and resources. Digital beauty advisors offer personalised recommendations through chatbots, and beauty tutorials using master classes and live-streaming, that mimic in-person experiences. This interactive approach engages customers and lets them easily explore new cosmetics trends and products from the comfort of their homes.
The future of beauty is here
From detailed skin analysis and advanced hair procedures to 3D-printed makeup products and smart mirrors, our entire beauty routines are being transformed by AI and innovative technologies.
As this tech continues to evolve, we can only expect greater personalisation, higher efficiency, and improved experiences moving forward.
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