Are Robotic Beauty Certifications the Future of Your Beauty Career?

Like any industry, the world of beauty is in constant flux. This has been the case since its inception. New techniques are developed, trends come and go, and tools improve over time. In recent years, however, it seems as though the change has accelerated.

Technology and innovation have made their mark on the beauty biz, and they show no signs of slowing down. From social media marketing to automated scheduling tools to trying new looks via virtual reality, the impact of technology is obvious in every sector of beauty.

Now, the robots are coming. And honestly? It's nothing to be worried about. Robots in beauty mean a new world of opportunity for cosmetology pros–not necessarily a takeover. In this blog, we'll chat about how AI and other types of robotic beauty can be implemented (now and in the future) in your own beauty career. 

Key Takeaways: Beauty technology is evolving and changing the way that cosmetologists work. With robotics entering the beauty biz, it’s time to consider how you can adapt to new technologies and stay on top of the beauty game.

Are Robotic Beauty Certifications Coming to a Salon Near You?

With the world in a tizzy about artificial intelligence (AI) and its potential implications, it’s only natural to wonder how new technologies will impact you as a beauty pro. The good news? Even if beauty bots do come into play in your salon shop or spa, they still need to be operated and monitored by licensed cosmetologists who know best (that's you!)

PLUS, there are tons of ways you can work alongside technology to improve your services and expand your business! 

These and other questions set the stage for a healthy understanding of–and adaptation to–beauty robots.

Do Beauty Robots Exist?

If you’re wondering about the existence of beauty robots, you don’t have to look far. They do exist and have for some time. 

Some were designed to test products for massive corporations, thereby saving the companies money in the long run, while others are passion projects of incredibly imaginative individuals.

The capability of these innovative creations is impressive. Some can place eyelash extensions with unbelievable precision, others can paint fingernails in a blink, and some can even shampoo and wash hair. It turns out that they are very good at the tasks they are designed to do.

For example, LUUM blends the power of beautiful lashes with robotic technology to create a lash extension robot and Clockwork has go-to tech for robot manicures!  

While the public application of these robots is still limited, there’s no question that the technology has grown by leaps and bounds in recent years. If the current trajectory is any indication, beauty robots will become more and more common in the future. And they'll need licensed pros like you to manage and run them! 

Should Cosmetologists Be Concerned About Robots?

With technology taking over more sectors and people seeing their jobs filled by automated alternatives, it’s natural to worry about the future of the beauty biz. The good news? Even if beauty bots become an integrated part of our industry, they're always going to need pros like you to manage and supervise them–and besides, beauty bots could never replace the human touch pros have! 

For now, beauty robots are a novelty that only serves the public in extremely small markets. In San Francisco and New York City, for example, you could seek out a robot to paint your nails, but a traditional manicure is still vastly more common and popular.

Still, the trajectory of the industry is vague. Robots may become a staple in salons across the country, or they may fail to capture the attention and imagination of the public–it’s too soon to tell. 

How to Adapt to Beauty Biz Technology

Whether you’re old school to the core or hip with the latest technology, staying adaptable as the world of beauty changes is key. While robotic beauty certification might not be essential right now, there may come a time when it is. Staying open to the possibilities will set you up for success no matter what the future holds.

When it comes to adopting beauty innovations, there’s no need to immediately jump on the latest and greatest thing. Instead, implement new technologies that make sense for your salon. Sometimes, this may include being an early adapter or technological pioneer. Other times, it will be integrating proven technologies that have already been widely accepted in the industry.

Most importantly, focus on what makes the beauty biz so unique because it is also what differentiates you from technology (no matter how groundbreaking and mind-boggling that technology is). Your secret weapon is your humanity and ability to connect in a meaningful way with your clients. Build relationships, establish trust, and lean into being human.

Clients come to you for more than your professional services, even if you’re a superstar. They come to you for connection and community. Robotic beauty certification or not, no machine can replicate the authentic experience of two people bonding.

For more beauty biz news, insights, and tips and tricks, subscribe to Elite Beauty Society. You can also check out our blog, where we offer regular updates from the world of beauty.