Ulianova G., Streliaeva A. Robotics in the beauty industry: is it possible to automate eyelash extensions? // Science Time. 2024. № 12(131). С. 86-91.

Статья: Ulianova G., Streliaeva A. (2024).pdf

Полный выпуск: Science Time. Выпуск № 12 (2024).pdf

ROBOTICS IN THE BEAUTY INDUSTRY: IS IT POSSIBLE
TO AUTOMATE EYELASH EXTENSIONS?

Ulianova Galina,
Lash Artist,
Volgograd, Russia 

E-mail: uulyana@list.ru 

Streliaeva Alena,
Expert in the beauty industry
Krasnodar, Russia

Abstract. Modern technologies are actively penetrating the beauty industry, offering automated solutions for various procedures. One of the promising areas is the robotization of eyelash extensions – a complex and labor-intensive process that requires high precision. This article examines the technical capabilities of automating this procedure, analyzes existing developments, evaluates the advantages and limitations of robotic systems, and predicts the prospects for the introduction of such technologies in the beauty industry.

Key words: robotic lash extensions, automated eyelash extensions, beauty robotics, lash extension automation, AI in cosmetology.

Introduction

The beauty services industry is developing dynamically, and clients expect not only high-quality results, but also shorter procedure times. Eyelash extensions are one of the most popular services, but they require high concentration and painstaking work from the specialist. Automation of this process could reduce the workload of specialists, minimize the human factor and increase the speed of the procedure.

Technological progress in robotics and artificial intelligence allows us to consider the possibility of creating robotic systems for eyelash extensions. However, the implementation of such solutions is hindered by both technical and ethical challenges.

In recent years, the first prototypes of devices capable of performing individual stages of the procedure have appeared, but full automation remains unattainable. In this article, we examine the current state of development, their effectiveness and prospects.

In addition, it is important to consider the psychological aspect: are clients ready to entrust such a delicate procedure to a machine? Research shows that trust in robots in the beauty industry is growing, but remains limited.

Finally, the economic feasibility of implementing robotic systems requires analysis. High development and maintenance costs may make such solutions available only to the premium segment.

Technical aspects of eyelash extension automation

Eyelash extension is a multi-stage process that includes preparing natural eyelashes, isolating each hair, applying glue, and attaching artificial fibers. To automate it, it is necessary to create a robot capable of performing all these operations with pinpoint accuracy.

Modern robotic manipulators, such as industrial arms from KUKA or ABB, have high positioning accuracy (up to 0.1 mm), but their adaptation to work with the human eyelid requires additional modifications.

One of the key problems is eyelash recognition. Computer vision based on neural networks can identify individual hairs, but in the presence of makeup or natural curls, the accuracy decreases.

Another difficulty is applying glue. The robot must dose a minimum amount of the composition, avoiding contact with the skin. Existing systems for micro-application of liquids do not yet provide sufficient stability.

Finally, the speed of the robot should be comparable to manual extension (1.5-2 hours). Current prototypes perform the procedure 3-4 times slower, making them commercially unviable.

Fig. 1

Existing developments and their effectiveness

There are already several experimental systems for automated eyelash extensions on the market. For example, Luum has developed a robotic system capable of isolating and extending eyelashes, but so far only in test mode.

Another example is LashBot, which uses computer vision algorithms to select the optimal location for attaching an artificial eyelash. However, the system requires manual adjustments in 30% of cases.

Japanese engineers have created a prototype that works on the principle of 3D printing: the robot applies glue and fiber layer by layer. But this technology is still too slow for commercial use.

The effectiveness of existing solutions is estimated at 60-70% compared to manual work by a specialist. The main problems are recognition errors and insufficient flexibility of movements.

In addition, most developments do not take into account the individual characteristics of clients (different thickness, length and curl of eyelashes). This limits their use in real salons.

However, progress in this area is obvious: if the first prototypes could only process 5-10 eyelashes per session, modern systems can handle 30-40.

Advantages and disadvantages of robotic eyelash extensions

Robotic eyelash extensions offer a number of significant advantages that can revolutionize the beauty industry. The main advantage is the unprecedented accuracy of the procedure. Modern robotic systems are able to position artificial eyelashes with an accuracy of 0.01 mm, completely eliminating the human factor, such as hand tremors or fatigue of the master. This is especially important when working with the delicate area around the eyes, where any mistake can lead to discomfort or even injury.

The second key advantage is the potential increase in the speed of the procedure. Although current prototypes work slower than a person, further improvement of algorithms and mechanisms will reduce the time of extension by 30-40%. This is achieved by simultaneously processing several eyelashes and eliminating the need for breaks that are required by masters. In addition, automated systems can work around the clock, significantly increasing the throughput of salons.

An important aspect is the hygiene of the procedure. Robotic systems can be equipped with ultraviolet sterilization and self-cleaning systems, which minimizes the risk of infections. Unlike human hands, which can be a source of bacteria, robots provide sterile conditions for each client. This is especially relevant in the post-pandemic era, when hygiene requirements have become much stricter.

However, the technology also has significant drawbacks that limit its widespread adoption. The main problem is the high cost of developing and maintaining such systems. The price of one eyelash extension robot can reach 50-100 thousand dollars, which makes it inaccessible to most small salons. In addition, regular expensive maintenance and calibration of the equipment is required, which increases operating costs.

Another serious limitation is the inability of modern systems to adapt to non-standard cases. When working with rare, damaged or particularly sensitive eyelashes, robots often require human intervention. Artificial intelligence algorithms cannot yet completely replace the experience and intuition of a professional master in difficult situations. This significantly reduces the versatility of the technology.

The psychological factor also plays an important role. Many clients, especially older ones, are skeptical about the idea of ​​trusting such an intimate procedure to a machine. Surveys show that about 60% of women prefer a human touch when performing cosmetic procedures. This psychological barrier will gradually decrease as people get used to the technology, but in the coming years it will remain a significant limitation to mass adoption.

Fig. 2

Prospects for the development of technology

The prospects for the development of robotic eyelash extensions look very promising, despite the existing limitations. In the next 3-5 years, we can expect the first commercially viable systems to appear, which will find application in premium salons in large cities. The key driver of development will be the improvement of computer vision and artificial intelligence technologies, which will significantly improve the accuracy of eyelash recognition and the adaptability of systems.

One of the most promising areas is the development of soft robotics. Flexible, biomimetic manipulators will be able to work with the human eyelid as delicately as the hands of an experienced master. This will solve the problem of potential injuries and make the procedure more comfortable for clients. Pneumatic robotic fingers with tactile feedback, specially designed for working with delicate tissues, are already being developed.

Reducing the cost of components, especially sensors and control systems, will make the technology accessible to medium-sized businesses. Analysts predict that by 2027, the price of basic robotic systems for eyelash extensions may decrease by 40-50% due to mass production and scale effects. This will open the market for small salons and individual entrepreneurs.

Of particular interest is the concept of hybrid workplaces, where a robot assists a specialist. In such a model, the robot takes on the most monotonous and high-precision operations, while the specialist controls the process and performs the most complex elements. This will increase productivity by 2-3 times without completely abandoning the human factor, which is especially important at the stage of technology implementation.

Integration with virtual and augmented reality technologies will open up new opportunities for personalization. Clients will be able to "try on" various extension options in digital format before the procedure, and a system based on machine learning algorithms will offer optimal eyelash parameters taking into account the shape of the eyes, facial features and personal preferences. This will significantly increase customer satisfaction and reduce the time it takes to agree on the desired result.

Conclusion

Automation of eyelash extensions is a complex but solvable problem, which in the future can significantly transform the beauty industry in 5-10 years. The current level of technology already allows us to create working prototypes of robotic systems, although their efficiency is still inferior to the work of professional masters. Key areas for further development are increasing the accuracy of positioning, increasing the speed of work and improving adaptability to the individual characteristics of clients.

The introduction of robotic solutions will require significant investments and time for adaptation from both businesses and consumers. At the first stage, the technology will find application in the premium segment and large salon chains, where high initial costs can be justified. As the cost decreases and the reliability of the systems increases, they will become available to a wider range of enterprises in the beauty industry.

It is important to understand that robotization will not lead to the complete displacement of eyelash extension masters, but rather will transform their profession. Instead of routine work, specialists will be able to focus on the creative component, client consultations and quality control. This will increase the prestige of the profession and the level of wages for qualified personnel.

Successful implementation of the technology will require a comprehensive approach, including not only technical developments, but also work to build consumer confidence, train personnel, and adapt business models of beauty salons. Those salons that can competently integrate new technologies with traditional service will gain a significant competitive advantage in the rapidly developing beauty services market.

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5. Kim, S., & Park, J. (2021). "Computer vision algorithms for eyelash mapping." IEEE Transactions on Biomedical Engineering, 68(5), 1429-1438.

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