SmartSKN has unveiled the Muilli AI Dermascope, a portable diagnostic device that combines artificial intelligence with advanced imaging technology to deliver precise skin analysis. The device’s launch introduces a new standard in hyper-personalized skin care, potentially transforming product development for cosmetics and personal care manufacturers.
According to SmartSKN, the Muilli is designed for both consumer and professional use and boasts 98.3% accuracy in assessing key skin parameters, including pigmentation, wrinkles, redness, and sensitivity.
“The Muilli AI Dermascope was inspired by the need to make skincare both personal and accessible,” Val Neicu, CEO and Co-Founder of SmartSKN, told CosmeticsDesign. “Skin health is deeply tied to confidence, and we wanted to create a tool that empowers people to understand their skin without needing clinic visits or relying on bulky, expensive devices.”
Leveraging AI for precision
The Muilli’s capabilities stem from years of research and collaboration with LILLYCOVER Korea, whose AI-driven skin analysis technology is at the device’s core. Using a database of over 150,000 global skin profiles, the Muilli ensures consistent diagnostics across diverse conditions.
“Our proprietary algorithms compare real-time images to benchmark data, analyzing parameters such as wrinkles and redness,” Neicu explained. “Metrics like mIoU (mean Intersection over Union) help achieve exceptional precision,” which “ensures Muilli provides actionable insights for truly personalized skin care formulations.”
The device also accounts for varying environmental factors. “It uses advanced image processing to standardize diagnostic conditions, like lighting and skin contact,” said Neicu. “This ensures consistent results whether used in a brightly lit gym or a dimly lit bedroom.”
Unlike traditional diagnostics that classify skin by simple categories like dry or oily, Muilli’s AI assigns users to one of 40 unique profiles. This granular analysis enables the creation of hyper-personalized formulations through SmartSKN’s K-AI product line.
“Muilli’s AI continuously learns from its extensive database, meticulously categorized by dermatologists,” Neicu explained. “By analyzing diverse skin types, tones, and conditions across regions like Korea, the US, and Japan, it creates precise indicators for metrics like redness, pores, and wrinkles.”
Personalization and production
The data collected by Muilli powers SmartSKN’s K-AI products, which are customized to meet individual needs through a modular formulation approach.
“Once Muilli completes an analysis, the data is translated into a personalized formulation using our proprietary algorithm,” said Neicu. “Each K-AI product starts with one of our base formulations, to which oils and active ingredients are added at varying levels.” As a result, “this modular approach enables over 25,000 unique formulations while maintaining consistency and safety,” she explained.
SmartSKN ensures consistency and safety through rigorous testing and sustainable practices. “Our robots precisely measure and mix ingredients to exact specifications, minimizing human error,” Neicu said. “Each formulation undergoes rigorous testing for stability and effectiveness,” and “we exclusively use EWG-verified ingredients to prioritize safety,” she added.
This approach aligns with the growing consumer demand for sustainable products. “On-demand production minimizes waste by eliminating overstock,” she explained. “Personalized products are more likely to be fully used by consumers, eliminating trial-and-error waste.”
Addressing industry challenges
SmartSKN faced challenges in bringing the Muilli AI Dermascope to market, particularly in an industry dominated by standardized products. “One major challenge was introducing the concept of personalization in an industry focused on one-size-fits-all products,” said Neicu.
She added that the company also needed to ensure “Muilli remained compact and affordable without compromising its professional-grade accuracy.”
The device’s final design makes it versatile for both consumers and professionals. “Its portability and affordability replace bulky, expensive equipment without sacrificing professional-grade accuracy,” Neicu noted.
Expanding access and retail innovation
SmartSKN plans to broaden accessibility by introducing SmartSKN PRO channels in collaboration with spas, clinics, and skin care professionals. Retail expansions include the launch of SmartSKN mini-labs, where consumers can see their personalized products being created in real-time.
“The journey begins with a simple skin analysis using the Muilli AI Dermascope, connected to the SmartSKN app,” Neicu explained. “Users receive a detailed skin health report and a personalized formulation within minutes.”
Then, she continued, “their custom products are formulated on demand and shipped directly to their door, or in select retail locations, made in real time by our robots.”
The first mini-lab will open in Los Angeles in January 2025, and additional locations are planned for New York City and Las Vegas.
Implications for the industry
SmartSKN’s Muilli AI Dermascope offers significant opportunities for manufacturers and suppliers by bridging the gap between diagnostic tools and product personalization. Hyper-personalized solutions based on real-time skin analysis could lead to more targeted product development, reduced waste, and increased consumer satisfaction.
“We’re not just creating products; we’re building an ecosystem that combines cutting-edge technology, on-demand manufacturing, and personalized care,” Neicu concluded.
