We all have that one friend who’s obsessed with skincare. (No? Just me? Great.) And we all know that that friend’s best friend is their mirror. If you weren’t already worried about losing your friend to some modern version of the Narcissus myth, now may be a good time. There’s a smart mirror geared specifically towards monitoring skin health. It’s called, HiMirror, and it will analyze your skin, propose a regimen, and track the results, all while sitting conspicuously over your bathroom mirror or a wall.
The HiMirror starts its consultation by asking for a makeup-free picture of your face. This picture can be taken using the high-res camera that’s built into the device. HiMirror studies the photo using facial recognition tech to list everything that’s wrong with your mug, including fine lines, pores, wrinkles, dark spots, and red spots. It uses that information to compile a “Skin Index Synthesis report,” which is a sort of holistic report of the overall firmness, brightness, and health of the skin.
HiMirror doesn’t just leave you hanging with a report and a distinctly deflated sense of self esteem. The smart mirror is able to suggest a bespoke skincare routine based on skin type, lifestyle, and personal preferences. Further, it uses big data analytics to gauge the results of the various skincare tips it proposes to arrive at the best approach for each person. The device keeps a log of these results to graphically depict progress (ideally) over time.
Since a lot of its suggestions rely on the use of certain types of skincare products, HiMirror has the ability to scan products into the system by barcode. Users can provide feedback on the effectiveness of each product and receive reminders regarding expiration periods. For some reason, the device can also display weather forecasts, play songs off Spotify, and link to Google Calendar. Those seem like rather impertinent features for a beauty-focused mirror, but it’s got WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity, and will use them how it pleases.
There’s also a version of the smart mirror called HiMirror Plus. Being the higher-end model, it comes with higher memory capacity so it can store more historical skincare data. It also has enhanced connectivity thanks to the use of two transmitting and receiving antennas each. Most importantly (according to the makers), the HiMirror Plus comes with front-facing LED lights that can simulate five different kinds of lighting conditions. So now you can find out exactly how your skin will look in a brightly lit office or dim lounge even before getting there. What a godsend.
The $189 HiMirror can be preordered on the company website. The HiMirror Plus is priced $259, and doesn’t appear to be available for preorder as of yet.
