Sephora launches AR app feature

By

Kate Dingwall

Published
Mar 15, 2017

Sephora has launched a new augmented reality layer to its Sephora Virtual Artist app, aimed at helping customers test out products without actually having to be in a physical Sephora location.

The app's new feature will allow users to upload their photo and try on thousands of different shades of eyeshadows, lip colors, and false eyelashes.

“With these additions, Sephora Virtual Artist continues to put the power and expertise of Sephora quite literally in the palm of our clients’ hands. Since launching Sephora Virtual Artist in 2016, our clients have virtually tried on hundreds of millions of shade combinations. It gives her the freedom to choose when, where and how she wants to shop as she creates customized looks and discovers the products that are just right for her,” said Bridget Dolan, Vice President of Innovation at Sephora.

Alongside this augmented reality feature, the new app upgrade boasts an 'Expert Looks' section, where users can browse through inspirational images created by Sephora artists, and a 'Virtual Tutorials' section specifically for brows, contouring, and highlighting.

Sephora’s Virtual Artist app was first launched in 2016.

Sephora is pretty late to the game when it comes to augmented reality apps. L’Oreal Paris first launched its AR MakeupGeniusApp back in 2012, which allowed users to try on any of the brand’s products via AR technology prior to purchasing. CoverGirl launched its similar BeautyU app in early 2016.

Considering that apps are predicted to bring in revenues of $77 billion over the course of 2017, not many other beauty companies are pursuing such technology. A study by Mintel found that 45% of women look to their phone to find new beauty products.