L’Oréal launches "world's largest diverse skin and hair study"

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.

Created in partnership with health tech firm Verily, the My Skin & Hair Journey registry will enrol thousands of self-identifying US women to better understand perceptions and experiences of skin and hair health, including the role of lifestyle, environment, wellness and personal beauty routines.

The study will allow L’Oréal to access data from women aged 18-70 from various ethnicities, social backgrounds, and diverse skin and hair attributes.

A subgroup of participants will also be invited for further testing to uncover biomarkers - "unique biological signatures" – that can lead to early detection or prevention of skin disorders.

Following the study, L'Oréal will use insights generated from the registry to develop "innovative, precision beauty offerings to support the skin and hair goals of all consumers".

Barbara Lavernos, Deputy CEO in charge of Research, Innovation and Technology at L'Oréal, said: "We are passionate about embarking on this journey with Verily, the worldwide leader in precision health tech.

"It is the first time a study of this magnitude has been designed for and launched in the beauty industry. Our work will go beyond skin and will cover our research around longevity.

"This study has the potential to unlock the mysteries of skin and hair health down to the individual level. In the future, it can serve as the cornerstone for developing precision beauty innovations for hair and skin, with a level of personalization never seen before."

Over the years, L’Oréal’s expertise has grown to include advanced research and innovation for precision beauty – using synthetic biology, green sciences and beauty tech to develop more personalised products and services.

In 2022, the group announced a strategic, multi-year partnership and research collaboration with Verily to advance precision skin health. As part of this, the companies unveiled HAPTA, a computerised makeup applicator for people with limited hand and arm mobility.