L’Oréal and IBM have partnered to create an innovative generative AI (GenAI) foundation model aimed at transforming cosmetic formulation. This collaboration combines L’Oréal’s cosmetic science expertise with IBM’s advanced AI technology. This union will drive the development of sustainable, inclusive, and cutting-edge beauty products.
AI has transformed consumer expectations in the beauty industry more in the last five years than in the previous 50. It is reshaping how beauty products are discovered, tested, and purchased, with enhanced services, personalisation, and customisation. McKinsey predicts that AI tools could influence up to 70% of consumer interactions in the global beauty market by 2027.
L’Oréal Groupe is leading this AI-driven transformation. Since acquiring Canadian AI beauty company ModiFace in 2018, the company has integrated AI across its brands. Innovations like the HAPTA smart makeup applicator (2023) and Cell Bioprint (2025) highlight its commitment to AI-powered advancements.
L’Oréal has now partnered with IBM to further its AI capabilities. Together, they aim to create a groundbreaking custom AI foundation model. This model will analyse cosmetic formulation data and promote sustainable raw material use, reducing energy and material waste. Combining beauty, chemistry, and technology, it marks a first for the beauty industry.
This partnership furthers L’Oréal’s “L’Oréal for the Future” pledge. Under the same, the brand aims to ensure that most of the product formulas come from sustainable materials by 2030. The AI model will support L’Oréal’s 4,000 researchers globally, enhancing product formulation, reformulation, and large-scale production. This will help them achieve greater inclusivity and personalisation.
IBM’s proficiency in AI-powered chemistry and data analysis will strengthen L’Oréal’s capacity to redesign formulation processes and create products with reduced environmental impact.
From The Leadership Desk
Alessandro Curioni, IBM Fellow, Vice President Europe and Africa and Director at IBM Research Zurich: “This collaboration is a truly impactful application of generative AI, leveraging the power of technology and expertise for the good of the planet. At IBM, we believe in the power of purpose-built, customised AI to help transform businesses. Using IBM’s latest AI technology, L’Oréal will be able to derive meaningful insights from their rich formula and product data to create a tailored AI model to help achieve their operational goals and continue creating high-quality and sustainable products.”
Stéphane Ortiz, Head of Innovation Métiers & Product Development at L’Oréal Research & Innovation: “As part of our Digital Transformation Program, this partnership will extend the speed and scale of our innovation and reformulation pipeline, with products always reaching higher standards of inclusivity, sustainability, and personalisation.”
Representational Banner Photo|Credits: Freepik
