L’Oréal embarks on world’s ‘largest and most diverse’ skin and hair study

By Julia Wray | Published: 13-Jul-2023

The beauty giant is partnering with health tech company Verily on the multi-year study into the factors contributing to skin and hair health over time

L’Oréal is launching a multi-year study to help researchers better understand the biological, clinical and environmental factors that contribute to skin and hair health over time.

Said to be the largest and most diverse study of its kind, My Skin & Hair Journey will be carried out in partnership with tech and clinical science firm Verily, part of the Alphabet conglomerate. 

My Skin & Hair Journey’s registry is now open for enrollment. 

L’Oréal said it is looking to recruit thousands of self-identifying US women, aged 18-70, from various ethnicities and social backgrounds, and with a diverse range of skin and hair attributes.  

Participants are invited to take part by privately sharing their skin and hair health journeys through self-reported data and surveys. 

And a sub-group of participants will be invited for further testing to uncover biomarkers that can lead to early detection or prevention of skin disorders. 

“This study has the potential to unlock the mysteries of skin and hair health down to the individual level,” said Barbara Lavernos, Deputy CEO in charge of Research, Innovation and Technology at L'Oréal. 

“In the future, it can serve as the cornerstone for developing precision beauty innovations for hair and skin, with a level of personalisation never seen before.”

“Skin health cohorts play a crucial role in unravelling the intricate connection between a wide range of biomarkers and skin health outcomes,” added Guive Balooch, Global Managing Director of Augmented Beauty and Open Innovation at L’Oréal.

“Engaging regularly over time with the study participants allows us to observe changes, pinpoint risk factors, and develop personalised skin care recommendations that enhance overall skin health and wellbeing. 

“This comprehensive understanding contributes to the development of more precise and inclusive skin care approaches that cater to the diverse needs of individuals worldwide.”

The My Skin & Hair Journey study forms part of a multi-year research collaboration between L’Oréal and Verily, which began in 2022. 

L’Oréal’s HAPTA, a computerised make-up applicator for people with limited hand and arm mobility and powered by Verily technology, was launched this year on the back of the partnership. 

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