The Future is Now

Guess who has joined the tribe of viral artists on social media? Robots that can perform eyelash extensions and manicures! It may sound like the screenplay of a sci-fi movie but it’s not. This is the truth of the contemporary beauty industry, and advanced technolog y has made it possible. If you think it will be decades before such a technolog y comes to India, think again, think out-of-the-box and read on to know more, says Kanishka Ramchandani.

The Indian bauty industry is embracing Artificial Intelligence and how! Our beauty professionals – be it hairdressers, beauticians, spa therapists, make-up artists or nail technicians – are known for their talent across the world. With the advent of technology in the beauty realm, we are now witnessing a new era. Generative AI is changing the way the world around us appears. From how creative artists visualise looks to how entrepreneurs run their salons, technology now governs every process. It delights me to see how enthusiastically salon professionals are adopting latest technology to upskill themselves and offer better options to their clients.

Imagine the ways you can use technology to your best advantage:

• Using virtual reality (VR) to transform your salon experience into a mesmerising adventure for your client

• Giving her augmented reality (AR) tools to try out endless make-up looks

• Prepping her for an AI-powered skincare app that analyses her skin type and suggests personalised treatments

• Trying AR make-up apps to experiment with different looks and colours in real-time

• Adopting VR hair consultations, trying out different hairstyles and hair colours before making a decision And it’s not just the creative aspect that’s under the radar. Business processes have undergone a drastic change to accommodate the changing demands of the new-age entrepreneur. Billing and appointment software, auto-prompts to clients via messages, emails and WhatsApp messages, chatbots, data collection and analysis, inventory management software, apps designed for staff management… the sky’s the limit!

The future of beauty is here, and it’s packed with exciting technological innovations like never before! professionalbeauty.in

Beauty tech at its best

I am as intrigued as I am in awe of modern technology. The rapid and absolute rise of ChatGPT has kept us all on our toes. With debates about people losing their jobs to AI and the ethical use of such innovations, we cannot deny the fact that these changes are here to stay. We are left with no choice but to upgrade ourselves and start being part of the tech revolution.

The beauty industry has been toying with technology for decades. What we see around us now is the fruition of years of efforts. And the reason we are seeing it now is because we are finally ready to adapt and take the beauty industry to the next level. The salon client is well-travelled, well-versed and well-aware of the latest innovations. She is eager to try out, and the industry is ready to cater to her need. This is the best time to be!

Let’s look at the top innovations in technology that has revolutionised the beauty vertical:

HAIR

1. AI hair analysis tool: AI-driven tools use sensors and algorithms to evaluate hair quality and scalp conditions, and provide personalised hair care recommendations. For example, MYAVANA’s hair strand analysis technology provides personalized recommendations at CES 2023. Revieve, an AI hair care adviser, takes a selfie to identify hair condition, and then provides interactive guidance.

2. IoT scalp scanner: This BECON Co. IoT scalp scanner uses AI to identify 10 hair and scalp characteristics, such as thickness, sensitivity, and moisture, in under 10 seconds. It also uses a magnifying lens, moisture sensor, temperature sensor, VOC sensor and UVC.

3. AI: Thanks to Generative AI, the fashion and beauty industries have changed rapidly. AI has given salon owners access to new marketing, advertising, and customer service tools. AI can also provide opportunities for businesses to improve customer offerings, such as personalised product recommendations, virtual try-on capabilities and skin analysis.

4. VR and AR: Salons are integrating VR into their services to create virtual try on experiences to visualise a new hair cut or colour that works for their face and skin-tone and reduce post service dissatisfaction.

5. Salon management software: Software can help with salon management, including appointments, marketing, inventory and reporting, such as Zenoti.

6. Social media: Social-media can be used to attract and engage with new customers. Almost all salons and businesses are currently registered on social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook, and use these platforms to market their brand and services and also run offers.

7. Smart hairbrushes: Beauty giant L’Oreal launched a smart internet-connected hairbrush with sensors that can count strokes and determine whether the hair is dry or wet and judge the force used while brushing as well as provide insights on hair health, manageability, frizz, dryness, split-ends and breakage.

8. ChatGPT: It is used to help with the virtual beauty advisor services, to offer personalised beauty recommendations and tutorials through live streams and chatbots. The software can mimic in-person interactions to enhance product recommendations, improve customer engagement and help increase sales.

Skincare

1. Smart mirror: Smart mirror by companies like HiMirror and MediSilk help to analyse skin condition like redness, pores, wrinkles etc. The app rates your skin condition and provides personalized skincare suggestions accordingly.

2. AI skin analysis: Websites like AI dermatologist can help resolve skin concerns by simply uploading a picture of the issue, the AI will analyse the condition and provide resolution within minutes. This can help fast track treatment especially in cases of conditions like cancer where time is of essence.

3. Acne tester app: An AI-based app, Roop scans your face for pimples and provides a diagnosis of the acne condition, severity, the affected area, as well as the different types of acne on your skin. The app can be used to track acne progress and chat with experts for free.

4. Beauty 3.0: Perfect Corp revealed Beauty 3.0, their new patent-pending AI and AR app that uses deep learning and neural networks to recognize shapes, colors, and skin pixels from images. The app then offers AI product recommendations, AI smart shade finder for instant foundation matching, and AI skin diagnostics to detect specific skin concerns and track progress over time.

5. Opté skincare system: Opté is a precision skincare device that scans the skin for uneven tone using a blue LED light that detects hyperpigmentation down to the pixel level. The results are then analysed by a microprocessor and a proprietary algorithm after which Opté customises the serum and delivers it precisely where it is needed, providing immediate coverage and long-term benefits.

6. Lumini: Lululab’s AI skincare assistant Lumini was awarded the 2019 CES Innovation Award. The device scans and analyses the user’s skin condition in 10 seconds and suggests the most suitable cosmetic products accordingly. It evaluates skin condition based on six criteria, including wrinkles, pores, skin trouble and melasma, and recommends the best solution.

Make-up

1. AI: AI algorithms work on a vast data pool, analysing customer details and preferences and using this data to provide customised solutions for current requirements. Leading cosmetic companies like Shiseido, L’Oréal, Beiersdorf and P&G are actively using AI to create personalised cosmetic products.

2. AR: AR takes personalisation a few notches higher by immersing users in virtual try-ons. AR technology overlays these products onto your digital image, so you can see how the product might look when worn in real life. Virtual try-ons take away the guesswork and minimise the risk of buying unsuitable products, which ultimately increases customer satisfaction.

3. Blockchain technology: Blockchain technology helps to address transparency and trust issues by providing details of every aspect of a product’s journey from material to finished packaging. With blockchain, each of these steps can be tracked, from raw material sourcing to manufacturing and distribution.

4. Make-up filters: Virtual make-up filters are one of the most sought-after features on social media apps like Instagram and Snapchat. Various digital makeup artists create artistic and meticulous makeup filters that their followers can then use to modify their pictures.

5. 3D printed make-up: 3D-printed make-up is a new trend in the beauty industry that offers customisation and creativity. Various brands have used the technology to create products differently. For example, the Mink 3D make-up printer deposits pigment onto a powder-coated substrate to create wearable cosmetics in powder form.

6. Amorepacific Lipcure Beam: It was awarded the CES 2024 Innovation Award for Digital Health for its patented technology that combines lip care with customised make-up, using a handheld device. It works through a precision sensor in the tool’s cap to detect moisture levels and skin condition of the lips.

7. Nimble beauty nail tech: Another standout at CES 2024, Nimble Beauty’s smart at-home nail salon uses AI and robotics to scan and determine the exact nail requirements and then paint professional-quality nails in 33 vegan shades, with a robotic arm, using nail-scanning technology.

8. Shu Brow: Shu Uemura unveiled SHU: BROW, an at-home electronic eyebrow make-up applicator. It’s built with the help of Prinker, a pioneer in the temporary body ink space, the device offers bespoke, tech-enabled brow shaping tailored to a user’s exact face dimensions. We get industry experts to talk about their experience with technology.

VIKAS MARWAH, Celebrity Hair Artist and Founder, Vikas Marwah’s Salon and Academy

Which technologies are you using in your salon currently?

1. Augmented reality (AR), artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual try-on: AR apps and mirrors are becoming more accessible and versatile. Customers can utilise AR and AI to visually try on several hairstyles, colours and make-up looks before making an appointment.

2. Eco-friendly and sustainable hair and beauty products: There is an expanding need for eco-friendly and sustainable hair and beauty products. We embrace environmentally friendly methods and provide clients with alternatives for green, clean and cruelty-free hair and beauty products.

3. Non-invasive hair and beauty procedures: Non-invasive beauty treatments such as microneedling, radiofrequency and LED therapy are becoming more popular since they need less downtime and yield more effective results. Salons also offer virtual consultations for clients who want to discuss their hair styling concerns and seek advice before scheduling an in-person styling session.

Which innovative product has proved to be useful to you?

Semi-permanent and temporary hair colour is an innovative technique, which excels in every situation, owing to its advanced technology and versatility. These enable personalised looks and artistic expression without requiring a long-term commitment. Hybrid hair colouring techniques, including balayage and foliage are examples of how technology has transformed the hairstyling industry.

How do you stay updated?

I believe creativity, continuous learning and professional development are crucial aspects of being a technology-driven hairstylist. I stay updated and bring my ‘A game’ to hairstyling by attending industry events and subscribing to pertinent publications and online resources. This helps me stay competitive and provide customers with the newest, most cutting-edge hair services. I also take part in training and workshops, and network with top global stylists and professionals to stay current with the most recent hair trends and techniques.

Do you make use of AI, VR or AR in your creative work?

Yes, absolutely! I use personalised recommendations using VR, AR and AI-powered systems. We assess a client’s hair and skin type, as well as their preferences, to generate individualised product suggestions and recommend specialised beauty treatments. These trends are here to stay, evolve and revolutionise the hairstyling world.

How do your clients respond to the use of technology?

My clients love the use of new technological trends in hair and beauty. Experimenting with sensory and multisensory experiences in our hair and beauty services, which include personalised soothing scents, music, and other sensory elements improves relaxation and comfort for our clients during services.

What is the one technological advancement that’s on your wish list?

Robot-assisted service is one such technological advancement that has piqued my interest to a great extent. They aid with duties such as hair washing and conditioning, product application, and relaxing massages. These robots have the potential to improve client experience exponentially.

Ashwin Mahajan, Founder, The Opulent Luxury Salon

Which technologies are you using in your salon currently?

• Cameras for hair photography and content creation

• Social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook

• Google reviews

Which innovative product has proved to be useful to you?

• Permanent hair colour with no ammonia such as INOA by L’Oréal Professionnel

• Olaplex and other bond builders as they stabilise the pH and add strength and elasticity to hair after chemical exposure

• Gentle pre-lightening services using plex that can give up to 2 to 4 level lift, while maintaining the integrity of the hair

How do you stay updated?

• I depend mostly on my own questioning and visualisations. I also work on a dummy to practice new cutting techniques or try new colours.

• This is the age of social media so platforms like Instagram, Facebook and YouTube teach a lot about emerging technologies and the possibilities of new developments

• Having an in-salon training academy and train the trainer programmes as well as networking with industry leaders are good ways to learn

Do you make use of AI, VR or AR in your creative work?

Yes, I am learning, understanding and applying augmented and interactive features into my content creation process. but there is a lot to learn in order to get refined, more effective and precise results. In the meta space, there is a huge scope of improvement. However, implementation has to be done correctly.

Share a memorable client reaction to a technology-enabled service.

On New Year’s Eve last year, one client was on her way to Ibiza. During consultation, she showed us the AI avatars she had created on Instagram. We were able to create a look close to her avatar with the use of reds and an amazing cut. Clients are able to try out different looks using VR and share with us their ideas with the help of AI. That was a ‘wow’ moment as I realised the emerging power and potential of AI.

What challenges lie ahead?

Technology is exciting and yet overwhelming. What AI shows you and what is real are two different things. This causes trust and reliability issues. The more you go close to technology, the more you lose the human touch. I am into psychology and I like to keep my fundamentals clear before using technology. It is important that we use technology for the betterment of humanity instead of only as a part of our business strategy.

What is the one technological advancement that’s on your wish list?

I have envisioned a combination of hardware and software that can make colour making and mixing more precise and effective so there is less wastage of colour and packaging.

What advice would you give about use of technology?

Be kind, be human and choose values over competition. Look at technology as an opportunity to expand and evolve. Be clear about your stand while working with technology – do you want to work for technology or make technology work for you?

Vivek Shyam Bhatia, Founder, Very V Salon; Artistic Ambassador, L’Oréal Professionnel; and Creative Director, Shyam’s Salon & Academy

Which technologies are you using in your salon currently?

Firstly, we are using an invoice software. Secondly, we use a software, which helps us with client consultation. It allows them to see how the colour will look on them and also helps them choose the right colour. And lastly, we use WhatsApp for our internal team, for target assignments and updates.

How do you stay updated?

Networking and staying connected, being in the know about what’s happening around you, in your city and across the world. Thanks to the Internet and social media, we get to know about everything new that comes up.

Which innovative product has proved to be useful to you?

We don’t use AI or VR that aggressively. I think salons in India have not reached that point yet. But yes, Ikonic Professionals has come up a straightening iron and a hairdryer, which has AI built into it. We press the AI button and the device detects how damaged the hair is or whether it is thick or thin. Based on this, it sets the temperature automatically. So, you don’t need to manually do it yourself.

How do your clients respond to the use of technology?

Technology has always added value not only to the services we offer but to our industry in general, too. For example, earlier on we used to verbally explain to the clients how a protein treatment will be done. Now, we show them a 30-second video on Instagram. We are able to see how the client’s existing hair is, what the process is like and what kind of results will come out. And all this is seen on a live model, not a dummy. This helps in making them understand what is achievable on their hair and what is to be avoided.

Share a memorable client reaction to a technology-enabled service.

I was doing colouration for actor Amyra Dastur. When I used the Style My Hair Pro app to show her that how her hair colour will look, she was amazed. You have your picture in the frame in the centre. The left side of your face will show your original hair and the right side of your face will show the hair colour of your choice. So, you will know exactly how you will look before you give it a try. Amyra was quite impressed with it.

What challenges do you face in integrating new technologies?

None of us have ever taken a course on how to use WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, Uber, Swiggy, Zomato or any other app for that matter. Once a certain technology is launched in a software or app format, it is quite easy for us to use. So, learning how to use an app is not a challenge.

The real challenge is that most hairdressers who own salons are not business people. They end up doing a lot of things that are business-related and not creative. So, management of things like cashback, e-wallets, membership, client records, SMS marketing and WhatsApp auto-response require trained staff. We actually need a dedicated person at the front desk to use that technology wisely and widely. That’s the only challenge.

What advice would you give about use of technology?

This advice is something I give to myself. Stay adaptive consistently. Technology is here to stay and it will only keep growing. Accept that and keep on adapting to it. The more you adapt to it, the more easily you will be able to integrate it and use it for your own benefit.