Beauty Tech

Welcome to a round-up of Beauty Tech in 2024, where innovation is shaping the future of skincare and cosmetics. In this dynamic landscape, four key directions define our journey: AI-Generated Personalization revolutionizes beauty routines, Wellness and Sustainable Solutions prioritize holistic approaches to skincare, Pro-Aging Technology celebrates the beauty of aging gracefully, and Inclusive Solutions ensure accessibility and representation for all.?

AI-GENERATED PERSONALIZATION?

In 2024, the beauty industry continues to embrace artificial intelligence (AI) for enhanced skincare and makeup experiences. Skincare benefits significantly from AI's capabilities, particularly in early condition detection and personalized routines.?

Renude , a platform specializing in tailored skincare, combines AI analysis with expert guidance to customize regimens. Customers engage through quizzes or video calls to receive personalized skincare routines based on AI data points. The platform collaborates with reputable skincare brands like CeraVe and The Ordinary, ensuring that the recommendations meet high standards of safety and efficacy. Geske German Beauty Tech 's recent entry into the U.S. market introduces innovative skincare devices featuring the AR Skin Scan, which identifies skin issues and recommends beauty tech products. Their self-developed beauty devices, priced under $100, feature innovations like the Facial Hydration Refresher （a pocket-size moisturizing mist), LED masks and MicroNeedling Face & Body Roller.?

The makeup world is also propelled by AI-generated solutions. Innovations like the L'oreal Brow Magic , which redefines beauty routines through the use of 3D brow crafting, featuring a mobile APP in which consumers can choose diverse shapes and shades . Dcypher stands out for its AI-driven custom foundation, through which consumers can select desired coverage, finish, skin type and skin tone for a truly personalized makeup experience. Besides, in the realm of hair and skincare, the AI-powered Kérastase K-SCAN provides precise hair and scalp diagnosis including level of dandruff, hair density, etc.?

SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS

People now prioritize overall well-being alongside aesthetic improvements, leading to a rising demand for products that target specific concerns with minimal side effects.?

L’Oréal, renowned for its prowess in beauty technology innovations, remains at the forefront of this transformative movement. During the recent Consumers Electronics Show - CES 2024 , Nicolas Hieronimus, the CEO of L’Oréal, unveiled the Airlight Pro , a groundbreaking hairdryer harnessing the power of infrared technology to replicate the natural drying effects of both wind and sun. This innovative approach not only minimizes damage to the hair but also aligns with eco-friendly principles, as it claims to consume 31% less energy than a conventional dryer.?

L'Oréal's acquisition of Gjosa introduced the L’Oréal Professionnel Water Saver showerhead . This revolutionary product is poised to significantly reduce water consumption by an impressive 69%. The integration of Gjosa's expertise into L’Oréal's portfolio reflects that big companies are making efforts to provide more responsible solutions that address both personal care needs and broader environmental concerns.

PRO-AGING TECHNOLOGY

The idea of “pro-aging” represents a shift in perspective from the more traditional “anti-aging” narrative that’s often been included in product descriptions and campaigns. It promotes the idea of embracing aging and focusing on acceptance and optimization.? In the skincare field, this means a more holistic approach towards healthy and radiant skin at any age rather than solely erasing wrinkles and fine lines.

In response to this inclusive effort, some beauty brands have adopted the concept of pro-aging in their marketing by replacing the words such as “anti-aging” with more positive expressions like “well-aging”. For example, The Body Shop rebranded its top-selling “Drop of Youth” range to “Edelweiss” with a new formula for stronger, smoother skin, in order to focus more on skin resilience rather than anti-aging.

Klira's SkinSize technology is also transitioning in this direction. The technology categories 12 advanced skin types based on the DNA code that influences how skin looks and ages. Consumers complete the SkinSize test online which in turn provides medical information and skin photographs, followed by a prescription of the “Klira Special' ', which is formulated on-the-go in the brand’s? London-lab and delivered? on a monthly subscription.

INCLUSIVE SOLUTIONS

Brands are making strides towards inclusivity by developing innovative solutions that consider the diverse needs of consumers. Though there is still much progress to be made, companies continue to create initiatives in this area.?

During CES 2023, L’Oréal also unveiled its groundbreaking product Hapta by Maison Lanc?me, a smart makeup applicator designed to empower those with limited hand and arm mobility by simplifying lip makeup application. Set for release this year, Hapta reflects Lancome's commitment to offering beauty solutions more accessible to all.?

Estee Lauder also introduced a Voice-controlled Makeup Assistant (VMA) app in early 2023, which aims at facilitating a more accessible experience for visually impaired consumers. Powered by AI, it identifies makeup on the face and assesses uniformity. The voice instruction can guide users in makeup applications, providing audio feedback and tips for an even makeup coverage.?

Start ups are also contributing to innovating towards more inclusive beauty. Guide Beauty is targeting make-up beginners and consumers facing mobility challenges. Their launch introduces three core products for mascara, brows, and eyeliner, featuring integrated resting features and ergonomic handles. Users can maintain a balanced arm posture and a relaxed grip for precise makeup application.?

In conclusion, the convergence of technology and beauty in 2024 heralds a new era of empowerment and inclusivity. As AI and other high tech innovations are progressing, beauty becomes more personalized, holistic, and accessible than ever before.?

Sources: Harpers Bazaar, Global Cosmetics News, BEAUTY INC, Glossy, MYSA, L'Oréal, Klira, Dcypher, Estee Lauder, Body Shop, Renude, Geske, Kérastase.