Is AI Transforming Skin Care?

Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the entire world, including skin care, with its ability to rapidly process a large amount of publicly available information and deliver a summation of both correct and incorrect information gathered from the internet. AI has been added to many large skin care manufacturers’ websites and is worthy of consumer and physician attention. This article examines how AI may affect dermatologist/patient interactions.

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How is AI currently being used in skin care?

Many companies that sell skin care products have developed AI algorithms to assess skin images or questionnaire answers for appearance attributes such as fine lines, wrinkles, redness, brown spots, dryness, and pore size. Once the algorithm assesses the condition of the customer’s skin, it presents a list of individualized product recommendations for online or in-store purchase, a personalization desired by consumers for some time. This may improve the accuracy of product purchases and increase customer satisfaction, leading to increased sales.

AI also is supplanting the “lady behind the cosmetic counter” in department and drug stores. Previously, the main access to customized cosmetics and skin care was through cosmetic counter attendants, who would personally demonstrate their products. Cosmetic companies rented prime space in department stores to reach consumers as they entered the store. Now, AI is challenging this traditional model of sales.

How can AI personalize skin care and cosmetic recommendations?

Some AI systems allow users to upload an image from a cell phone and then render an image of the result that might be expected from various skin care and cosmetic products. AI systems can simulate different hair, lipstick, and eye shadow colors prior to purchase in what is known as a virtual try-on. The benefits of various skin care regimens can also be simulated on the face of the consumer. One HIPAA-compliant system uses AI to examine 14 skin concerns, helping consumers navigate the ever-expanding skin care and cosmetic aisles. The system was trained with expert grading performed by dermatologists to simulate an actual in-office dermatology visit.

How will AI affect skin care product development?

Many companies are already using AI to select ingredients for new formulations. Existing data banks of adverse reactions can be scoured to be sure no allergens or irritants are included in formulations. Data banks can also be examined for possible ingredient interactions and instability. Further, AI can assist manufacturers in being sure they adhere to the various global regulatory requirements.

Will AI be incorporated into skin care devices?

AI has already been incorporated into smart skin devices, and the device market is booming, with a projected annual growth rate of 12%. AI-powered cleansing devices analyze the skin age and examine skin hydration to create a customized cleansing routine. The program is used for 2 weeks, followed by a device reassessment and additional customization for the newly improved skin condition. AI is also found in LED red- and blue-light face masks. Blue light is used to kill Cutibacterium acnes, while red light is used to attempt to increase mitochondrial energy generation by affecting the electron transport chain. The light produced by the device can be customized based on an assessment of skin needs through a phone app. The app uses a consumer-completed questionnaire to assess skin needs and determine the necessary program modifications. This allows the consumer to take control of their skin care. The app also documents improvement to reinforce device use.

Future Outlook

AI is here and will undoubtedly change the skin care and cosmetic market. Dermatologists will need to understand the various ways AI is used and assist patients in selecting those apps and devices that might be beneficial.

Zoe Diana Draelos, MD, is a consulting professor of dermatology at Duke University School of Medicine in Durham, North Carolina, and Dermatology Times’ editor in chief emeritus.