The aesthetic beauty industry is increasingly adopting artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced technologies, raising important questions about their potential to enhance treatment practices.

 

According to PwC’s Global Artificial Intelligence Study, AI has the potential to contribute an additional $15.7 trillion to global GDP by 2030, with a significant portion of this is likely to arise from the cosmetics industry; a study found that the global AI cosmetics market was worth $2.68 billion in 2022 and is expected to continue growing.

 

Dr Alek Nikolic, who has a special interest in aesthetic and cosmetic medicine, shares his thoughts on how technology is personalising and revolutionising the field of aesthetic enhancements.

 

The rise of AI in beauty

We were first introduced to AI in beauty when Neutrogena launched Skin360 in 2020, and in recent years, more big brands in the industry have latched on. Cetaphil, L’Oréal, and Estée Lauder all have services similar to Skin360 that analyse a user’s photo and recommends a skin care routine.

“Services like Skin360 aim to democratise access to aesthetic care by making it easier for users to understand their facial features and discover treatments that address their specific concerns,” explains Dr Alek Nikolic.

 

However, it is essential to recognise that tools like Skin360 are not substitutes for professional consultations with aesthetic practitioners. Instead, they serve as convenient aids that help consumers identify suitable treatment options.

 

Dr Nikolic employs the Visia Skin Analysis system in his practice, which takes personalisation a step further. The Visia system captures high-resolution images of the face, revealing features that are often invisible to the naked eye, such as UV damage, pigmentation, and texture. This advanced technology provides a comprehensive assessment of facial health, enabling practitioners to develop customised treatment plans based on objective data.

 

“The Visia system analyses various facial attributes, providing insights that guide effective treatment regimens,” Dr Nikolic notes. “This level of detail aids us in monitoring progress over time and adjust treatments as needed.”

 

Following an analysis, Dr Nikolic can recommend a variety of aesthetic treatments tailored to the individual’s specific needs. These may include:

• Microneedling: A procedure that stimulates collagen production and improves skin texture and tone.
• Laser treatments: Depending on the laser applicator used one can target deep and/or superficial hyperpigmentation, pores, fine lines and wrinkles, and stimulate collagen and elastin production.
• Dermal fillers: “Dermal fillers are the go-to treatment when we want to support sagging facial structures, replace volume loss in the face or to correct deep wrinkles,” explains Dr Nikolic.
• Superficial skin peels: These are ideal treatment for gentle exfoliation, brightening and hydrating the skin. While they are medical peels, they will not leave you red and will not leave your skin flaking or sloughing after the treatment, but rather with soft glowing skin.
• Injectables: Such as Botulinum type toxin, which can enhance facial shape and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

 

Embracing innovation while preserving the art of aesthetic medicine

While the future of aesthetic medicine is undoubtedly intertwined with technological advancements, Dr Nikolic points out that the challenge lies in ensuring that these innovations enhance rather than overshadow the fundamental principles of effective skincare.

 

As practitioners increasingly utilise AI for treatment planning and marketing, questions arise about the sustainability of these practices. “Are we moving towards a future where aesthetic medicine is overly reliant on technology, potentially sidelining the holistic approaches that have long been valued in this field?” he asks.

 

Dr Nikolic also highlights the importance of consumer education in navigating this landscape. “With technology becoming more integrated into this industry, consumers must be equipped to discern between genuine innovation and mere hype. Understanding how these tools work and their limitations is vital for making informed choices,” he reiterates.

 

“While AI can provide valuable insights, it is essential to remember that aesthetic beauty and medicine  is not solely a science; it is also an art. The emotional connection and understanding that come from human expertise cannot be replicated by algorithms,” he concludes.