Artificial Intelligence has come a long way in the past few years, even growing leaps and bounds since the beginning of 2023. With AI’s functionality reaching heights that many of us would never have thought possible only a few years ago, it comes as no surprise that we are beginning to see AI make its way into the skincare industry. From AI skin consultations to personalized product recommendations, the marriage of technology and skincare has become a hot topic at many of the industry trade shows I’ve attended. However, amidst the excitement, it’s crucial to recognize the potential pitfalls that come with relying solely on AI for skincare advice.
I’ve said it time and time again, but AI is only as effective as we are self-knowledgeable. As AI takes the lead in assessing our skin type and bestowing product recommendations, it’s important to know that its final analysis is all dependent on how well we know our own skin. You can take an online quiz or chat with AI, but if you’re not a skin professional and don’t really understand your own skin, then AI can only do so much. Let’s take a look at how AI holds up to in-person expertise– and why I think it still has the potential to be big in 2024!
The Importance of the Human Touch
One of the most common challenges in skincare is that people often struggle to accurately assess their own skin. AI steps in to guide users through this process, helping them answer questions about their skin concerns, genetics, environment, and lifestyle. If you’ve ever used the internet to help you determine your skin type, I’m sure you’ve filled out your fair share of Skin Type quizzes (even like our quiz!) After about 5-10 questions you likely received an assessment that says you’re oily, dry, combination, anti-aging, sensitive, acne-prone, etc. But here’s the thing– while this is a great start to your skincare journey, this unfortunately can’t provide you with the personalization of an experienced professional.
For example, when providing a skin consultation to my clients, I will often perform a pinch test on them. This means I will pinch their skin a couple of times in order to see how quickly, or slowly, their skin turns pink. This then tells me what their circulation is like, allowing me to accurately asses their skin and determine which products suit them best. The personal touch of human estheticians is irreplaceable in consultations. We tailor our inquiries based on individual observations and delve into a person’s skin history, a level of detail that AI currently struggles to replicate.
The Benefits of AI
While AI isn’t ready to take on the skincare industry all on its own, it has ushered in a host of benefits in the meantime. Here are a couple of reasons I think AI is going to greatly complement the skincare industry in 2024.
AI as a Validation Tool:
Despite its limitations, I see AI as a valuable validation tool for estheticians. AI attempts to understand the uniqueness of each person’s skin, adding data to their individual skin story. Combining this data with a professional’s expertise can potentially enhance the overall skincare consultation experience.
Enhancing the Consumer Experience:
The integration of AI into skincare consultations aims to streamline the process. By offering quick and personalized solutions, AI makes skincare more accessible and convenient for users, addressing their needs in real time. This seamless integration contributes to a streamlined process that empowers consumers to navigate their skincare journey with confidence. The convenience and efficiency afforded by AI-driven consultations ensure that skincare becomes a more engaging and empowering experience, meeting the demands of today’s fast-paced lifestyles.
My Skin Rx
What if I told you there was an option that combined professional experience and quick, convenient results? I introduce to you: My Skin Rx. These are 15-minute consultations with our in-house, licensed esthetician Lexi. They are a great way to learn about skincare, why your skin type is more than just oily, dry, or normal (hello 9 skin types!), as well as receive personalized product recommendations all from the comfort of your home. The best part? This service is entirely FREE! Sign up today and learn more about how to achieve your dream complexion.
As AI becomes a more integral part of the beauty industry, my experience in welcoming this technology has been incredibly exciting and exploratory. I foresee AI being a great companion for those at any stage of their skincare journey, bringing benefits to both consumers and estheticians. I’m excited to see the future partnership between innovation and expertise within the world of skincare.
Next up, why at-home devices might be everywhere in 2024.
Celebrity Esthetician & Skincare Expert
As an esthetician trained in cosmetic chemistry, Renée Rouleau has spent 30 years researching skin, educating her audience, and building an award-winning line of products. Her hands-on experience as an esthetician and trusted skin care expert has created a real-world solution — products that are formulated for nine different types of skin so your face will get exactly what it needs to look and feel its best. Trusted by celebrities, editors, bloggers, and skincare obsessives around the globe, her vast real-world knowledge and constant research are why Marie Claire calls her “the most passionate skin practitioner we know.”
