How AI is revolutionising skincare and beauty with data, algorithms, digital innovations

Dermatologists in India are increasingly using AI-assisted platforms for consultations. These tools can assess a patient’s skin condition remotely, track progress over time, and suggest customized treatments (Image: Pexels)

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic buzzword but it has turned into a game changer transforming how Indians approach skincare and beauty. From dermatologists’ clinics to beauty brand apps, AI is redefining personal care with precision, personalisation, and purpose. The beauty industry, long driven by trends and trial-and-error, is now turning to data, algorithms, and digital innovation to craft smarter, safer, and more sustainable skincare experiences.

Impact on Indian beauty buyers:

AI is slowly but surely changing how people in India discover and use beauty products. The biggest impact has been in personalisation, Ketki Garud, Founder of The Volume Company, tells Moneycontrol. She adds, “Earlier, most of us figured out our skin or scalp type through guesswork. Now, with a simple selfie, AI tools can pick up signs of oiliness, dryness, pigmentation, redness, flakes, or buildup. It’s not perfect, but it gives a much clearer starting point for choosing the right routine. This matters even more in India because our weather, water quality, and daily habits vary so much from place to place. What works in Mumbai humidity won’t always work in Delhi winters, and AI helps bridge that gap.”

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From one-size-fits-all to hyper-personalised beauty

Traditionally, skincare has been a generic game and products are designed for broad categories like “dry” or “oily” skin. But India’s diverse climate and genetic variations mean no two skin types are alike. Recognising this, AI-powered personalisation is helping brands and experts break free from the one-size-fits-all mould. Brands are also using AI to make the online shopping experience smoother. Garud says, “Virtual try-ons for makeup shades, basic skin analysis filters, and guided quizzes have become common on large platforms. In India, WhatsApp and website chatbots are playing a surprisingly big role. They help people figure out what to buy, explain how ingredients work, and even remind them how to use products correctly. Since not everyone has access to dermatologists or specialty stores, especially outside metro cities, these tools give people a sense of guidance and reassurance.”

Doctors approve

Dermatologists in India are increasingly using AI-assisted platforms for consultations. These tools can assess a patient’s skin condition remotely, track progress over time, and suggest customized treatments. Predictive skin models even guide dermatologists in planning aesthetic procedures like lasers and fillers with greater precision to reduce risks and enhance results.

On the research side, AI is helping dermatologists and formulators work faster and safer. Garud says, “Instead of testing endless combinations in the lab, AI can scan through huge ingredient databases and predict which mixes are likely to work well together and which ones might irritate the skin. It can also study patterns from thousands of customer reviews to help understand what is actually working and what isn’t. This is useful for brands in India, especially those working with natural or Ayurvedic ingredients where quality can vary with region and season.”

FAQs on How To Use AI In Skincare

1. How can AI help in personalizing skincare routines?

AI analyzes selfies to detect signs of oiliness, dryness, pigmentation, and more, providing a clearer starting point for selecting the right skincare routine suited to individual needs and varying climates across India.

2. How does AI enhance online beauty shopping in India?

AI-powered tools like virtual try-ons, skin analysis filters, and guided quizzes on platforms assist users in selecting products, understanding ingredients, and ensuring correct usage, offering personalized assistance especially where access to dermatologists is limited.

3. How are dermatologists in India using AI?

Indian dermatologists use AI-assisted platforms for remote skin assessments, tracking progress, and suggesting customized treatments, enhancing precision in aesthetic procedures and reducing risks.

4. How is AI improving skincare research?

AI scans large ingredient databases to predict effective combinations, studies patterns from customer reviews, and helps brands understand what works best, particularly with natural or Ayurvedic ingredients which may vary by region and season.

5. What benefits do AI chatbots offer for skincare in India?

AI chatbots on platforms like WhatsApp and websites help users figure out suitable products, explain ingredient benefits, and provide usage guidance, offering reassurance and accessibility to skincare advice beyond metro cities.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.