Virtual Beauty: AI and AR Transforming Shopping Experiences
Michael Torneau, SmartGlassesOn
Published 18:46, Wed May 1, 2024
Virtual Beauty: Exploring the Impact of AI and AR Technologies
The beauty landscape has undergone a notable metamorphosis recently, largely owing to the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Augmented Reality (AR) technologies. These groundbreaking developments have not only altered consumer interactions with beauty items but have also transformed the marketing and selling strategies of brands. A staggering 93% of Snapchat users have demonstrated interest in utilizing AR for shopping. From virtual testing sessions to tailored skincare suggestions, AI and AR have unlocked a realm of opportunities, enriching the beauty domain in unprecedented ways.
Virtual Testing
One of the most notable strides facilitated by AI and AR in the beauty sector is the virtual testing experience. With the emergence of AI-driven virtual testing tools, shoppers can now explore various cosmetics without stepping foot in a physical store. Whether it’s trying on lipstick shades, eyeshadows, or foundation, shoppers can visualize how different products look on their skin before making a purchase.
“Traditionally, consumers would visit physical stores to sample different makeup items before deciding on a purchase. However, with the introduction of AR-driven virtual testing tools, shoppers can now experiment with diverse cosmetics from the comfort of their homes,” says Wayne Liu, a founding member of Perfect, a company specializing in AI and AR technology for the beauty and fashion sectors. “Virtual testing empowers customers to unleash their creativity and explore new beauty trends, fostering a sense of empowerment and self-assurance.”
Color Matching
Anyone who has tried to find the perfect foundation knows the struggle of matching shades. AI comes to the rescue by accurately matching skin tones. By analyzing factors such as skin tone, texture, and lighting conditions, AI algorithms ensure that virtual makeup seamlessly blends with the user’s natural features, offering a more authentic representation of the final appearance.
“By harnessing the capabilities of AI, beauty brands can provide a diverse range of shades that cater to a variety of skin tones, enabling customers to find their ideal match,” explains Liu. This simplifies the process of finding the right foundation on the first attempt.
Skincare Analysis
In addition to virtual testing experiences, AI-powered beauty platforms are transforming skincare routines by analyzing users’ skin conditions and offering personalized product recommendations tailored to their individual needs. By analyzing skin type, concerns, and environmental factors, AI algorithms identify the most suitable skincare products and routines for each user, assisting them in achieving optimal results. Furthermore, AI-powered skincare platforms can track users’ progress over time, enabling continuous refinement and optimization of their routines. “By analyzing data on aspects such as skin type, beauty objectives, skin health enhancements, and product effectiveness, brands can provide personalized recommendations, curate content, and offer targeted promotions for even better outcomes,” explains Liu. This personalized approach to skincare enhances the effectiveness of beauty products and cultivates stronger brand loyalty among consumers. “It allows beauty companies to tailor their recommendations to a high degree beyond current capabilities,” says Toto Haba, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Communications for Benefit Cosmetics.
Multichannel Interaction
In addition to virtual testing experiences and skincare recommendations, AI and AR technologies are reshaping how beauty brands interact with consumers. Social media platforms and mobile apps equipped with AR filters enable users to experiment with various makeup looks and share their creations with friends and followers. These interactive experiences drive user engagement and serve as potent marketing tools for beauty brands, enabling them to showcase their products in an enjoyable and captivating manner. In fact, 50% of consumers prefer AI-powered recommendations for beauty products. According to a Gartner survey, it is predicted that more than 70% of beauty brands will be utilizing AI for product development by 2025.
The fusion of AI and AR technologies is revolutionizing the beauty industry, offering innovative solutions to enhance the customer experience. From virtual testing experiences and personalized skincare recommendations to interactive social media filters and AI-driven virtual assistants, these advancements are reshaping how beauty products are marketed, sold, and experienced by consumers worldwide.
Source: Jia Rizvi, How AI And AR Are Enchancing The Beauty Space, Apr 8, 2024, <https://www.forbes.com/sites/jiawertz/2024/04/08/how-ai-and-ar-are-enhancing-the-beauty-space/?sh=6566981c4d6b>