Lash Robots, AI Nail Polish, DNA Skin Care — 2021 Was Huge in Beauty Innovations

Nimble makes it easy to paint your nails at home — and with little to no work. It's done and dry in 10 minutes.

The gadget uses AI technology, microcameras, 3D image processing, and deep-learning algorithms to calculate the shape and curve of each nail. All you have to do is choose your shade; insert capsules for your base, color, and topcoat; then place your hand into the machine. Nimble also uses a warm airflow system to speed up your nail-drying time. There are 30-plus different shades to choose from (all of which are vegan, 13-free, and recyclable), and each capsule set gives up to three applications.

You know there's a lot of science behind Droplette when you hear it was developed by MIT-trained scientists and uses fluid physics to hydrate the skin. It creates a fine nano-mist that contains much smaller particles of mist than other methods, meaning products are more easily absorbed (compared to other formulas that sit on the surface).

The brand, with the help of dermatologists, created three capsule formulations that target a specific skin concern — glycolic acid for exfoliating, retinol for boosting cell turnover, and collagen for a plumping effect — so all you have to do is insert the single-use pod into the device and get misting. The vibration technology ensures it penetrates deep within the skin.

Luum is seriously sci-fi — it's a robot that acts as a lash artist, applying individual lashes to your natural lashes. It uses robotic tech, barcodes as markers, and lash-artist expertise to create a unique, personalized lash look. It combines all of the best parts of lash extensions — how long they last and the ability to create custom looks — with automation to make it easier for everyone involved.

A lash artist plans, supervises, and touches up the whole process, which is just as relaxing and comfy as a normal lash-extension appointment.

It's currently only available in-salon in Oakland, CA, but they do offer limited VIP preview appointments if you can't wait for it to hit a salon near you.

Color&Co is a personalized at-home color service from L'Oréal. It allows you to video chat with a colorist, who can give you advice on colors that are best for you, application, and keeping your hair healthy. When you make your color choice, you'll get sent a unique formula that's been created just for you with personalized instructions. The service aims to take the risk out of DIY hair color by reducing unpredictable color results, creating infinite color possibilities, and giving personalized, professional guidance without having to set foot outside.

Talk about high-tech: the Opte device scans your skin using a high-speed digital camera that captures and analyzes 200 images per second, using a microprocessor and algorithm to seek out dark spots and discoloration on the skin. It then goes on to treat your spots in real time, using mineral-based pigments to camouflage instantly as well as five percent niacinamide (a clinically proven brightening ingredient) to fade them over time.

In the celebrity beauty collaboration that no one saw coming in 2021, Madison Beer and Vanessa Hudgens joined forces with dermatologist Karen Kagha, MD, to launch Know Beauty, a skin-care range built around genetics and lifestyle factors. The idea behind this is that our genetics indicate how our skin is predisposed to common skin problems, so carrying out a science-based skin DNA test takes some of the guesswork out of building a routine.

Here's how it works: you take a one-minute skin diagnostic test with a Skin DNA Kit that you send off for testing to be matched with a future-proof skin-care routine based on seven categories. From there, Know Beauty then develops a personalized skin analysis profile and recommends a curated regimen just for you.

Dcypher was created for everyone out there who struggles to find the right foundation shade, creating a personalized color just for you — no compromises and mixing shades at home. The company uses the camera on your iPhone or cellular device to analyze your bare face (no filters allowed), then asks you questions about your skin type and foundation preferences before giving you a personalized shade code that you can use to order your perfect foundation pairing. Forget 40 shade ranges — the range with Dcypher has endless possibilities. They're cruelty-free, vegan, and paraben- and sulphate-free, too.

Ziip has been an industry favorite for years, as the app-connected beauty device uses nanocurrents and microcurrents to deliver better skin with immediate, long-lasting effects that are suitable for all skin types. Now, the second wave of Ziip is better than ever: using the combined data from millions of people's use of the tool over time (plus founder and facialist Melanie Simon's experience working with A-listers), the app now creates custom facial treatments just for you.

Just pair the device with the app, select a treatment (you can choose from a range of options between full facial, targeted treatments, and more), apply the gel that's provided, and then follow the easy instructions. The best part? You can do it anytime and anywhere.