How AI shade match drives beauty brand growth_Arbelle

From limited to limitless: How AI shade match drives beauty brand growth

by Antonia Radosevic & Ivona Androic

50% of consumers choose brands that champion diversity – is yours one of them?

Many brands still limit their foundation lines to around 30-50 shades, thinking they’ve covered enough bases. But in reality, AI-powered skin-tone analysis consistently shows that true diversity demands 100-200 distinct shades.

Inclusivity in beauty is no longer a trend – it’s essential. So, make sure not to fall short. If your brand isn’t keeping up, you risk losing customers who expect to be seen and represented.

So, how exactly can your brand bridge this inclusivity gap and stand out from the competition? AI shade match could be your answer.

Leverage AI shade match technology for authentic engagement

AI-driven tools like the Shade Finder offer more than a perfect shade match; they create moments customers love to share, boosting your brand’s visibility.

✧ Shareable customer experiences

When customers find that perfect shade match, it feels like a personal win, and they’re excited to share it. Whether it’s through posts, reels, or selfies, these moments become a natural way for them to promote your brand. As they spread the word, it helps build a community that’s all about inclusivity and celebrating individuality. It’s not just about the product – it’s about the connection and the joy of finding something that truly fits.

✧ Viral marketing through influencers

Influencers and micro-influencers thrive on relatable, genuine content. And AI shade-match tools provide the perfect opportunity for creators to create fun and engaging tutorials, honest reaction videos, or unfiltered product reviews. These videos not only highlight the accuracy of the technology but also showcase the brand’s dedication to inclusivity. Authentic content like this resonates with audiences, creating a buzz in the beauty world and helping the brand stand out in a crowded market.

Data-driven product development

AI shade-match tools aren’t just customer-facing solutions; they’re goldmines of valuable insights. They let brands see precisely what customers need and highlight opportunities for improvement.

✧ Identifying gaps and expanding shade ranges

By analyzing extensive customer data from shade-matching interactions, brands can clearly identify which shades are underrepresented or missing entirely. Instead of relying on guesswork, AI-driven insights offer concrete evidence of the exact shades customers are searching for but not finding, helping brands fine-tune their product offerings effectively.

Free Foundation Analysis

➥ How well do your foundation shades meet the needs of all skin tones? Find out with our FREE Foundation Inclusivity Analysis.

✧ Reinforcing your commitment to inclusivity

When you expand your shade range based on real-world data, you’re proving to customers that inclusivity isn’t just talk – it’s action. As consumers increasingly value authenticity and meaningful representation, brands that demonstrate tangible efforts in diversity see greater customer loyalty and brand trust.

Want to dive deeper? Download our State of Inclusivity in Beauty report for actionable insights to help your brand become a leader in diversity.

Moving beyond 50 shades: Embracing full skin tone diversity

Most brands hit pause after launching 30-50 foundation shades, assuming they’ve sufficiently covered consumer demand. Yet, AI consistently highlights the need for at least double this amount – often 100-200 unique tones – to genuinely match real-world diversity. This isn’t just about filling a demand gap; it’s about fully acknowledging and celebrating the incredible variety of global skin tones.

AI shade match-full skin tone diversity_Arbelle

Brands embracing this shift aren’t simply meeting consumer expectations; they’re redefining industry standards. They’re setting a benchmark that prioritizes genuine representation, pushing the beauty industry toward deeper, more meaningful inclusivity.

Upgrading customer experience with AI shade match

Implementing AI-powered shade-matching technology dramatically enhances the entire shopping experience, keeping customers happy, loyal, and engaged.

✧ Precision leads to customer loyalty

Finding the perfect shade match effortlessly is satisfying and builds trust. Customers who experience a precise match are far more likely to return for future purchases, generating sustained loyalty and brand advocacy.

✧ Inclusivity creates belonging

Having a comprehensive range of shades sends a clear message: everyone belongs here. When customers feel seen, acknowledged, and valued by a brand, they don’t just buy – they become part of a loyal community that continues to support and promote the brand organically.

Embracing new consumer behaviors and personalization

Today’s beauty consumers expect more than just high-quality products – they demand personalized experiences. Brands that leverage AI-powered shade-matching can meet these expectations head-on, offering tailored recommendations that resonate deeply with individuals. Personalized beauty solutions are no longer a nice-to-have; they’re essential in driving engagement, repeat business, and lasting emotional connections.

Shade Finder product recommender

Lead with AI-powered inclusivity

Ready to stand out in the beauty industry? Inclusivity is now a necessity, and AI shade-matching tools help you deliver more than just products – they help you build a brand that genuinely sees, represents, and celebrates every individual.

Interested in taking the next step? Contact us today and find out how our AI solutions can transform your brand’s approach to inclusivity.

Get started with Shade Finder

Contact us, tell us what you need, and let our friendly sales reps help you explore our Shade Finder technology.