Beauty writer Lucy Addicott tested an AI-powered platform supported by 115 years of skincare research to see how it works
The world of skincare is vast and there are quite literally hundreds of thousands of products to choose from. Pair this with a range of different price points and formulas and you might find yourself a little overwhelmed at where to begin when it comes to looking after your complexion.
I’ve pondered about the idea of booking an appointment with a dermatologist myself but they are often expensive and time consuming. That’s when I came across a free way that could spell the solution to my skincare woes. Blending science, tech and beauty shopping, AI-powered platform Noli claims to transform your beauty routine by using a diagnostic quiz and face scan to create your own unique ‘BeautyDNA’ profile’ out of 100 million possible combinations.
You can then shop your skincare routine with a 30% off discount, featuring brands that I already know and love like CeraVe, La Roche-Posay, Lancôme, and more. Eager to find out whether an AI service could do the job, I headed to the website myself and got scanning.
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How do you use Noli?
Once on the Noli website, you can start your free skin analysis, with a quiz that takes around 4 minutes to complete. To determine your skin type, the platform asks you questions such as ‘how does your skin feel when you wake up?’ with various multi-choice options including dry or tight and comfortable and hydrated. It also ensures the safety of your skin, determining if your skin reacts to skincare products or external conditions.
It was then time to start the AI-powered face scan. I used my phone to do this and it was incredibly easy, with the tool letting me know whether the lighting was right and if my face was in the optimal position for scanning. You then rank your top skin concerns, whether it be oiliness, wrinkles, redness or dark circles.
What skincare routine did Noli recommend me?
After providing Noli with my preferred skincare price point and the kinds of products I currently use, the platform created my personalised skincare routine. Giving extra advice on what ingredients my skin needs and why, my personalised routine consisted of the Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser, L’Oreal Paris Revitalift 12% Vitamin C Serum and the CeraVe Moisturising Lotion.
You are also recommended alternative products that can you swap out of your bundle. The total price of your bundle is shown, offering a 30% off discount when purchasing. My bundle came to £36.63 but these items would typically set me back £52.33, saving me £15.70 off my skincare. If you spend more than £60, you can get an extra £20 off with the code NOLIMATCH20.
Overall thoughts
Ultimately, I would definitely recommend Noli to anyone who is stuck on how to build a skincare routine that works for them, as well as a skincare pro who is purely after some extra information. I found the whole process to be seamless and as the platform is free to use, you aren’t forced to part with your pennies if you do decide the routine isn’t for you.
While there are brands recommended on the platform I would reach for, as well as those that are new to me and I would be intrigued to try, there are still many brands I would love to see added. I could only spot 14 brands which does mean you routine is determined by a relatively small number of beauty retailers.
Alternatively, if you need help with your skincare routine, you can use the L’Oreal Paris Skin Genius and discover a personalised skincare routine validated by the International Board of Dermatologists of L’Oréal Paris.
Charlotte Tilbury also offer a Your Pro Skin Analysis that unlocks a personalised skincare routine and expert advice in under 60 seconds. Answer three questions about you, take a selfie and it will access four key areas: dehydration, dark circles, pores and wrinkles. But, for a personalised skincare routine that can also save you money, head to Noli here.
