When you think tech, your mind probably jumps to the offerings that define Silicon Valley: The Googles, Facebooks, and Apples that power our social, likes-defined world. This year, beauty companies are making industry strides that tap into the latest tech trends to bring some welcomed, and colourful, new perspectives.
The latest launches from some of the biggest beauty brands debuted this week at CES, the annual consumer electronics show in Las Vegas. If 2017 was all about integrating AR into beauty apps to let you to virtually try on new blushes and mascaras at home, 2018 is kicking off with tools focused on skin health. From a clever and easy new way to track UV exposure to a smart sheet mask treatment that cuts the process down to less than two minutes, these devices put you on the fast-track to getting your glow on.
Ahead, a look at some of the biggest conversation starters in the beauty realm at CES this year, and most importantly, when you can get your hands on them.
Have A Safer Beach Day
When do you need to reapply sunscreen? And how much are you exposing your skin to harmful UV light during a day at the beach? These are two key questions L’Oréal is aiming to answer with its skin safety technology, which goes a step beyond the sunscreen rules you read on the bottle
In 2016, the company launched the UV Patch, a stick-on, water-resistant sensor that synced with your phone to let you keep tabs on UV exposure. Now, they're back with the UV Sense, a battery free circular stick-on that fits on your thumb and connects to an app to let you track exposure during a day in the sun. The device comes with additional adhesives so you can use it again on your next beach day.
L’Oréal UV Sense, price TBD, launching in limited release summer 2018.
Get More From Your Mirror
Futuristic smart mirrors aren't new, with previous versions letting you view the weather, watch TV, and check the time while getting ready in the morning. HiMirror brings a skincare element to the product, with a built-in camera that analyses your skin and tracks goals and results. Yes, this mirror will tell you about your pores, dark spots, wrinkles, and dark circles.
The company's latest Mini version of its mirror integrates Alexa, meaning you can ask for the time and weather as well as listen to music as well as ask the mirror to analyse your skin. As some have noted, it can come off a bit harsh (do you really want a mirror telling you that you have dark spots?), but it does provide useful product info. You can scan your skincare products into the device and get notifications when expiration dates are coming up.
HiMirror Mini, forthcoming in 2018 on HiMirror.com.
Transform Your Sheet Mask Routine
Foreo, the company behind the Luna 2 facial cleansing brush, is bringing innovation to an unlikely arena: Sheet masks. While a standard sheet mask treatment can take upwards of 20 minutes, Foreo says it's latest, macaron-shaped device delivers clearer, faster results in just 90 seconds. Think of it as a massive shortcut for your evening or weekend skin routine.
Here's how it works: On the underside of the device, pop out a plastic ring and place one of two circular, paper-thin Foreo masks inside (there is a daytime and nighttime option). Secure the ring around the mask and press a button on top. This activates three, 30-second intervals of T-sonic pulsations and LED light therapy, that work together to help the mask absorb faster and make your skin glow. Then, massage the device over your skin to deliver the treatment.
Foreo UFO Smart Mask, available April 2018 on Foreo.com.
Take A Closer Look At Your Skin
Neutrogena's newest tech isn't a reason to skip your dermatology appointment, but it is a useful, at-home accompaniment. The SkinScanner tool fits over the top of your phone and has an ultra-magnifying lens with built-in LED lights and sensors. To use it, you simply need to hold your phone up with the lens gently resting on your skin.
The accompanying app allows you to keep track of your skin's moisture level as well as other health factors. It'll also offer product recommendations for your skin type based on the information from SkinScanner.
Neutrogena Skin360 App & SkinScanner Tool, forthcoming in 2018 on Neutrogena.com.
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