Key takeaways on Clarins AI Shade Advisor
- Clarins has launched an AI‑powered shade finder developed with Illuminate AI.
- The tool uses spectroscopy and smartphone imaging to measure skin tone and undertone with high precision.
- Clarins reports a 96% match rate compared with expert makeup artists.
- The service is now available in more than 100 boutiques across seven countries.
- Early testing shows increased conversion and higher average basket sizes.
Clarins has launched a new AI shade finder, an in‑store service for precision makeup matching. For the first time, the AI‑driven makeup recommendation engine will assist customers and Beauty Advisors.
The technology has been developed in collaboration with deep‑tech start‑up Illuminate AI. According to Clarins, it is the first system in the world to accurately measure skin tone and undertone using a smartphone, delivering what the brand claims is the most accurate shade‑matching experience available today.
How Clarins’ spectroscopy‑powered AI transforms shade matching
The AI shade finder is powered by spectroscopy – the science of light – a technology backed by more than 30 years of research.
The tech is capable of accurately reading the unique colour signature of every skin tone in less than 60 seconds using a smartphone. Instead of relying on a single photo, the system captures a rapid sequence of images while the phone screen changes its light output. By analysing how light reflects on the skin, the algorithm can precisely identify skin tone, undertone and overall colourimetry.
Global rollout aims to boost conversion and elevate consultations
Clarins claims it achieves a 96% match rate compared with a seasoned makeup artist, setting a new standard for accuracy.
“It’s like turning a smartphone into a scientific reader of skin colour,” explains Konrad Jarausch, Founder & CEO of IlluminateAI. “The technology quantifies pigmentation and undertones with a level of precision that was previously impossible in‑store with a smartphone. It’s 10 years of make‑up expertise, now accessible through a simple face scan."
The new technology, the result of a global co‑creation journey involving Clarins’ Innovation Lab, Clarins make‑up artists and Beauty Advisors, IlluminateAI scientists and physicians, and clients worldwide, will be available exclusively in Clarins boutiques and counters. Here, Clarins Beauty Advisors will recommend the perfect foundation shade and a fully personalised makeup routine, all harmonised to naturally enhance the customer’s complexion.
“The AI shade finder enables us to put AI and beauty tech at the service of our ambitious strategy of accelerating in makeup,” says Jonathan Zrihen, President & CEO of Clarins. “We are proud to offer an innovation built with and for our clients.”
The brand said it has been live‑testing the service in boutiques in France and the UK, and has already seen a strong impact on conversion and average basket size compared with previous makeup consultations without this service.
The technology is currently deployed in more than 100 Clarins boutiques and counters across seven countries – France, United Kingdom, Ireland, Italy, Switzerland, Mexico and the UAE – to support the launch of the new Double Serum Foundation. It will roll out to more countries this spring.
