With World Beauty Day fast approaching on the 9th of September, we thought it ample time to reflect on some of the latest, greatest beauty innovations that have emerged over the past few years. Beauty tech has become a booming industry post-COVID, and according to Sky Quest Technology, the market is expected to be worth 172 billion euros by 2023. Meanwhile, figures from Statista show the global industry is worth an eye-watering 519 euros this year alone, with recent research revealing over 400 active UK-based beauty and cosmetic companies now offering digital services.
The world’s most popular beauty brands have taken the reins on advancements in AI, machine learning, AR/VR, IoT, cloud computing and data analytics. With that in mind, we decided to look at some of the latest developments in beauty tech that will make you look like a beauty queen in no time.
Beauty innovations: the new era of Smart Skincare Devices
Anti-ageing and skin tech have become all the rage post-COVID, with tools that can even out skin tones, deflate puffy eyes, smooth wrinkles and more. It shows no signs of slowing down, with a report from Global Market Insights suggesting skin care devices will grow by 12.8 per cent between the end of this year and 2032. Some of the most popular smart skincare devices include the Opte, a handheld inkjet printer which scans, corrects and detects spots. It also helps with hyperpigmentation. Another popular innovation that has come to light recently is dermaplaning. This involves using a tiny electric razor (a dermatome) to remove skin surfaces.
And last but not least, it would be a crime not to mention micro-needling, which involves punching tiny holes in your skin to stimulate the skin’s healing process and boost collagen and elastin production. The latest devices, such as the GoPro, emit red light while microneedles punch the tiniest of holes in the skin. In addition to offering the benefits of micro-needling, proponents of GloPro say it can enhance the absorption of skincare products. These are just some beauty innovations that aim to help users look younger.
AI and AR-powered beauty filters
Love or hate them, social media has made beauty filters a booming business for the world’s biggest cosmetics brands. Using algorithms and computer vision technology, they identify and map facial features before superimposing filters that can make (almost) anyone looks like Margot Robbie. Some of the largest cosmetics brands using AR filters include MAC, Valentino, Nars, Dior and Estée Lauder. When it comes to AI, technology has reached new heights, so much so that the latest TikTok’s ‘Bold Glamour’ has gone viral as its software recreates your chin, nose, cheeks and eyes through machine learning. Although surrounded by controversy, AI powered beauty filters look set to stay.
Beauty innovations: 3D e-makeup
It used to be a thing where 3D makeup was based solely on effects created by colours on palettes. Now thanks to technology, it’s all gone digital. Through face makeup beauty apps, you can try on various shades of lipstick, eyeshadow, blush and foundation. COVID can be credited with the development of e-makeup as, when the pandemic struck, many cosmetic outlets globally were forced to ditch the testers for health and safety reasons. Today e-makeup features on Charlotte Tilbury, MAC Makeup, NYX and Fenty Beauty’s websites, among others.
AI-powered beauty treatments
It’s no secret that Artificial Intelligence has transformed the entire beauty industry and shows no signs of slowing down. According to SwiftERM, Artificial Intelligence in Beauty is on course to be worth around 12 billion euros by 2030. Some of the brands embracing AI include Beiersdorf, L’Oréal, Olay and Shiseido. Of course, AI is quite a broad term and can refer to software and even computer-controlled robots. Two great examples of machine-controlled treatments currently on the market include Californian-based LUUM, which has created robotic arms that apply eyelash extensions to humans, and Clockwork, a famous robot in the States that offers manicures. These robots are said to augment human capabilities rather than replace them.
E-makeup consultations
Another interesting beauty tech that cropped up during the pandemic was e-makeup consultations, which are seemingly here to stay. These virtual sessions see beauty buffs liaise with cosmetics experts and receive advice on which products best suit their skin type and colouring. One of the first companies to embrace e-makeup consultations was Charlotte Tilbury. In addition, Estée Lauder, Smashbox and Sephora are just some brands that have incorporated video beauty consultations into their business plans, all of which are getting prettier by the day through incorporating technology.
