Once upon a time, inclusivity was an aspirational concept in the beauty industry, not quite within reach of everyone. That has changed today. The beauty space now celebrates inclusivity proudly with a number of progressive initiatives - from incorporating a diverse range of formulations to catering to different skin tones and types. Makeup brands have started to create and retail a wider range of colours to match different skin tones. Fenty was among the first to release 40 different foundation shades, offering choice to women of colour. This is all great progress, but there's still work to be done.
Beauty isn't the same for everyone. People have different needs, especially when it comes to finding the right makeup shades. Some brands have taken the leap and paved the way with technology, using Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Augmented Reality (AR) to create solutions.
L’Oréal’s Makeup Applicators For Person With Disabilities
New technologies showcased at events like CES Unveiled are changing the way we approach beauty and health. For example, L’Oréal introduced Hapta, a specialised handheld makeup applicator designed to help people with limited hand movement apply makeup more easily. This device uses smart controls and customisable attachments to make makeup application smoother and more precise.
Voice Makeup Assistance By The Estée Lauder Companies
Similarly, The Estée Lauder Companies launched a voice-enabled makeup assistant app (VMA) to assist visually-impaired users in applying makeup independently. This app uses smart mirror technology, AI capabilities, and voice instructions to guide users through the makeup application process and provide helpful feedback.
Neutrogena’s Digital Skin Assessment
In the health space, Neutrogena partnered with Nourished, a personalised vitamins and supplements brand, to create custom dietary supplements using artificial intelligence and 3D printing. Customers can get personalised supplements based on their skin health needs after using Neutrogena’s Skin360 digital skin assessment. These supplements come in gummy form and are made with different layers, containing various vitamins and nutrients tailored to individual skin goals.
The collaboration between Neutrogena and Nourished aims to provide fresh, personalised supplements with customisable flavours, packaged in eco-friendly materials. This innovative approach to health supplements is part of a broader trend where technology meets personalisation to enhance beauty and health routines for everyone.
Additionally, there's growing interest and innovation in using technology to improve skin health, makeup application, and dietary supplements, catering to individual needs and preferences in more inclusive ways.