Inclusive beauty: Perfect Corp. CEO discusses virtual try-on tech impact on consumers & cosmetic industry
As the cosmetic industry continues to trend towards more diverse and inclusive product formulations through the increased availability of different shade ranges in foundations and other complexion products, software as a service (Saas) artificial intelligence (AI) and augmented reality (AR) beauty platform Perfect Corp.’s virtual try-on (VTO) technology is bridging the gap between technology and the consumer for an improved shopping experience.
With consumers increasingly demanding more personalization in their cosmetic shopping experiences, Perfect Corp.’s AgileFace Tracking Technology works to provide its users with “an unmatched VTO experience that accurately applies makeup effects, regardless of facial attributes across all ethnicities,” shared a recent Perfect Corp. press release. “Whether someone has small or large lips, wide or narrow noses, or defined or flat cheekbones, the technology ensures precision and inclusivity,” the release said, emphasizing how AI is working to drive inclusivity in the cosmetics industry by better meeting unique consumer needs.
To learn more about the background, development, and launch of AgileFace VTO tech, the potential impact of VTO tech like AgileFace on cosmetics and personal care manufacturers and suppliers, how this technology differs from other currently available VTO technology, and Perfect Corp.’s plans for further development in this industry space, CosmeticsDesign interviewed Alice Chang, CEO and Founder of Perfect Corp. for her insights.
CDU: Can you share some background information about the software development process behind this technology?
Alice Chang (AC): At Perfect Corp., our mission is to solve consumer pain points through the power of technology and digital innovation. As a beauty lover myself, I noticed a major pain point in the consumer journey when shopping for new makeup shades and products.
I knew that the process of selecting new shades was a challenging experience for many, and I recognized the great potential AR technology could have in streamlining this experience. With this goal in mind, we began developing an AR virtual try-on solution that would not only allow consumers to try on products virtually but would allow them to do this in a way that was ultra-precise and realistic.
At Perfect Corp., the accuracy of our technology is a key priority, and we tested many iterations of this technology before bringing it to the market. With the development of AgileFace Tech, we knew that we had a solution that would be differentiated and truly allow consumers to see products brought to life on their own faces.
CDU: Were there any challenges that needed to be overcome in order to launch this technology?
AC: When developing precise AR and AI solutions for the face, there are many challenges and features that need to be perfected to ensure the best possible consumer experience. When developing our AgileFace technology, we spent many months fine-tuning the solution to guarantee a highly personalized virtual try-on experience for users across all genders, ages, and ethnic backgrounds. We also had to ensure that the solution would take into consideration each user’s unique personal characteristics.
CDU: What is the potential impact of this technological development (Agile Face Technology) on manufacturers and suppliers to the cosmetics and personal care product industries?
AC: Our innovative AgileFace technology is powered by advanced AI deep learning technology to ensure the most precise and inclusive virtual try-on experience. For this reason, our virtual try-on technology has become table stakes in the beauty industry and is currently utilized by over 500 brands globally.
The tech has made a huge impact on both brands and manufacturers by enabling beauty consumers to sample and discover products in a fully digital medium. The widespread use of this technology allows manufacturers to produce products more efficiently and sustainably.
When using virtual try-on technology, there is no need for physical product samples. This allows brands and manufacturers to produce less product, therefore reducing the amount of waste created during the beauty shopping experience. This ultimately empowers brands to minimize their overall carbon footprint.
In addition to advanced virtual try-on technology for makeup, we have also developed AgileHand Technology, a groundbreaking solution that enables hyper-realistic virtual try-ons for nail color, rings, watches, and bracelets. These technologies are significantly enhancing the retail experience in beauty and fashion by allowing customers to experience products in exciting and immersive ways.
CDU: How is this technology different or innovative when compared to similar options currently available on the market?
AC: Perfect Corp.’s AgileFace Technology solution is the most advanced VTO solution available on the market today. It features ultra-precise real time tracking powered by deep learning technology to ensure the most accurate digital representations of products and the most life-like depiction of makeup products on the face.
With many of the VTO solutions available today, the technology lacks precision and does not accurately depict how products and shades will appear when worn. Our AgileFace Tech outperforms these competitors to deliver the most impressive AR effects.
It is also the fastest and most reliable solution available. Our AgileFace Technology is truly a step above and works as a powerful engine to drive product discovery as well as purchasing confidence.
CDU: Are there plans for further development and innovation in this space?
AC: At Perfect Corp., our goal is to continue enhancing the consumer experience with digital innovations. Today, beauty consumers are seeking out personalized advice more than ever before, and technology is essential to provide each consumer with this personalized attention.
As we look to the future, we plan to optimize our current solutions to better meet the evolving needs of consumers. From advanced AR and AI solutions to generative AI, there is endless potential for technology to take retail experiences to new heights.
