Nearly one billion people worldwide live with a disability, yet the beauty industry has historically failed to create products that meet their needs. Accessibility is now a hot topic for many brands, with Selma Blair sharing his makeup with MS routine on his TikTok and launching a comprehensive line of tools.
L’Oréal unveils two assistive beauty technology products at CES this year: HAPTA and L’Oreal Brow Magic. And I say, they are a breath of fresh air. It’s about time, right?
We spoke with Guive Balooch, Global Head of Technology Incubator at L’Oréal, about the company’s accessibility products. His take on the accessibility of beauty is simple. “There should be no barriers or limitations to self-expression.”
Hapta
L’Oréal’s first product is the HAPTA Makeup Applicator. It was developed in collaboration with Verily Life Sciences, who developed the technology for his Liftware, a line of robotic forks and spoons that help people with mobility problems eat. Verily Life Sciences is an Alphabet company.
The same is true for HAPTA. A handheld computerized makeup applicator for those with limited hand or arm movement. It’s surprisingly easy to use. The majority of HAPTA applicators are hand held and the end attachments are connected with magnets. No need to tighten or open screws. Inside the device are real-time sensors and smart motion controls that keep your lipstick vertical no matter what angle you hold it. The attachment rotates 360 degrees.
loreal
The HAPTA tool will be launched with L’Oréal-owned Lancôme lipsticks and attachments at the end of 2023. However, future makeup applicators are expected. “I won’t stop until all my makeup applications are done,” said Balooch. In 2024 and 2025, we expect about one or two additional attachments, such as mascara and foundation, to be released.
I was immediately blown away by the sleek perfection of this device. All parts are conveniently housed in the charging dock. This is not surprising as all testing was done in the community.
loreal brow magic
The L’Oréal Brow Magic applicator is reminiscent of the Opte makeup skincare printer shown at CES 2020. Developed in partnership with Prinker, this electronic brow applicator uses Modiface AR technology to eliminate the need for numerous and bulk products. time. This is the first handheld electronic brow applicator. And it works in seconds.
“It bridges the gap between the professional and the at-home. It upgrades the at-home user to something that works regardless of skill level or creative level. We can,” said Bharuch.
L’Oréal’s new Brow Magic Makeup Applicator.
First, scan your face with the Brow Magic app. It uses AR technology to show you what your eyebrow options look like on your face. After choosing a style, for each brow he moves the device across the brow line in one motion. The tool has her 2,400 tiny nozzles with a resolution of 1,200 dpi that print hundreds of hair-like temporary tattoos on the face. You can remove it with your standard makeup remover at the end of the day.
The device’s sensors allow it to locate the hair and match it to the speed of movement. It doesn’t have to go at the right speed. Your device will detect and adapt.
Nine colors are available for the 2023 launch. Depending on the size of the eyebrows, one ink cartridge containing 3 colors can be used for about 4 to 6 months with daily use.
Is this the future of beauty accessibility?
I never sugar coat it. Accessibility is never guaranteed in the beauty industry.
Many people with disabilities are frustrated by buying products or wearing makeup that are not designed for their needs. is. Some brands have already started releasing products with accessible packaging and easy-to-grip products. For example, Selma Blair and Guide Beauty have released easy-grip makeup tools designed to guide your hands during application.
When asked what impact the product is expected to have on the industry, Baluch said:
L’Oréal Brow Magic and HAPTA applicators are forefront products of inclusion and accessibility for applying makeup. Being able to open the product is not enough. They should work for you too.
“There are now many sensors and technologies that are more accessible to enable projects like this, and I hope the industry as a whole will do more,” Baluch added.
The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified physician if you have questions about your medical condition or health objectives. Talk to your health care provider.
