To live near Silicon Valley offers a glimpse into futuristic innovations. From automated coffee dispensers at San Francisco airport to driverless cars, technology is rapidly evolving. Recently, AI-powered robots have made their way into beauty salons.
An Oakland startup is introducing eyelash extensions applied by a robotic assistant, priced at $170. This service is marketed as more precise and quicker than traditional methods, appealing to those who prioritize efficiency.
Safety was my initial concern, given the proximity of the robot’s tools to my eyes. However, the beauty assistant assured me that the robot’s wands are designed to be easily brushed away if necessary, and the robot can pause its operation if it senses any disturbances, such as sneezing.
Despite these reassurances, I felt a sense of claustrophobia as I lay beneath the sizable, buzzing machine, reminiscent of an MRI scanner.
The technology, developed over six years, utilizes computer vision to identify natural eyelashes and apply extensions quickly, reducing the usual two-hour manual process to around 60 minutes.
While many focus on how AI can transform industries like defense and manufacturing, the beauty sector has emerged as a promising area for technological innovation. Companies like Clockwork are deploying machines for speedy manicures, while others, such as Aescape, are working on automated massage services. Social media posts from tech leaders showcase these robotic beauty treatments.
As I reclined, the machine positioned me under a bright light, an uncomfortable experience even with my eyes closed as per standard procedure for lash extensions. Anticipating the process, I was soon met with an unexpected pause as the robot encountered a minor issue, requiring the assistant’s intervention.
After a brief delay, the robot resumed, and I was relieved as it worked skillfully, applying lashes without any discomfort. The process felt similar to traditional beauty appointments, and after approximately 45 minutes, the assistant completed the look with some manual adjustments.
The service was efficient, and the results were satisfactory. Future versions of the machine are expected to apply lashes to both eyes simultaneously, enhancing speed further. However, I found myself missing the relaxing atmosphere of human-performed treatments, which typically allow for music or the chance to unwind.
As technological advancements continue, there is an undeniable reality that the roles of beauty professionals may shift. While the beauty industry presents ripe opportunities for tech entrepreneurs, fully automated beauty experiences may still be a way off. The presence of staff remained important, especially when I received a notification about the option to leave a tip for my service—illustrating that some traditions, like tipping, endure even in an automated future.
photo credit: www.ft.com
