In the ever-evolving fashion industry landscape, B2B brands are on a relentless quest for fresh approaches to gain a competitive edge and grab eyeballs.
Virtual try-ons are a groundbreaking solution driven by the power of Augmented Reality. And while it’s been around for quite some years, fashion and beauty brands are slowly catching up with the trend.
In 2012, Converse became an early adopter of virtual try-on technology. They introduced an innovative feature through The Sampler App, exclusively designed for iPhones. The app allowed users to leverage their phone cameras to visualize how the shoes would appear in real life. Moreover, it enabled them to share these images on social media platforms and conveniently make online purchases.
Virtual try-ons for the cosmetics industry work quite similarly, allowing customers to try different shades and experiment with looks before they can take the product home. Undeniably, the potential of virtual-try-ons is boundless and boils down to how a B2B brand can be put to use.
In this guide, we delve into uncovering multiple capabilities of virtual try-ons for cosmetics.
Here, you will not only learn to embrace virtual makeup solutions but unravel ways to breathe new life into your marketing to stay ahead of the curve.
Virtual Try-Ons: Why It’s A Frenzy
Virtual try-on tools, powered by Augmented Reality (AR) and Artificial Intelligence (AI), enable customers to try on clothing and accessories through their smartphones or computers.
These tools create a lifelike digital experience where customers can see how a garment fits, drapes, and complements their style without physically trying it on.
However, the significance of this particular tech is how it addresses some of the most significant challenges in the fashion industry, such as fit issues, returns, and the need for a physical presence in brick-and-mortar stores.
At the heart of virtual try-ons, innovative AR and VR technologies create realistic and interactive experiences. Here’s precisely how it works:
- Augmented Reality: AR overlays virtual elements, such as makeup products, on the user’s real-time image. It enables customers to see how cosmetics look on their skin without physically applying them.
- Virtual Reality: VR offers immersive experiences by creating entirely virtual environments. While not commonly used in cosmetics, VR can enhance brand engagement and create unique shopping experiences.
Benefits of Virtual Try-Ons for B2B Cosmetics Brands
From reducing physical sample production to lowering shipping costs, virtual try-ons offer B2B cosmetics brands a window to create the ultimate personalized and immersive shopping experience. In turn, it trickles down to higher engagement and conversion rates.
Here’s a look at some of the first-hand benefits:
Enhanced Customer Engagement
Virtual try-ons provide an interactive and engaging way for customers to explore cosmetic products, leading to longer session times on brand websites and apps. AR and VR elements capture the attention of potential buyers, making them more likely to browse and experiment with different products.
Increased Sales and Conversion Rates
By allowing customers to apply makeup or try out skincare products virtually, brands reduce hesitation and increase the likelihood of purchase. Take the AR makeup try-on tool by SelfStylo. It directly aids in eCommerce conversion by providing a convenient way to visualize products on different skin tones. In short, convenience and confidence are in one frame.
Reduced Product Returns
Virtual try-ons also minimize the risk of dissatisfaction and e-commerce return rates by enabling customers to see how products will actually look on them. This reduces the financial burden on B2B cosmetic brands and improves customer satisfaction.
Personalized Recommendations
Some VTO solutions offer personalized product recommendations based on user preferences and skin types, enhancing the customer’s shopping experience. Users can receive product suggestions that align with their specific needs and preferences.
Low Cost and Environmental Impact
Virtual try-on tools can also contribute to cost savings for B2B fashion brands. Fewer returns mean less operational overhead and a more efficient supply chain. Additionally, reducing the need for customers to order multiple sizes to find the right fit contributes to reducing packaging waste and the fashion industry’s environmental footprint.
Data-driven Insights
VTO platforms gather valuable customer interactions, preferences, and product popularity data. Such vital data can help revisit marketing strategies, product development, and inventory management.
Leveraging Virtual Try-Ons for B2B Cosmetic Brands
Leveraging virtual try-ons enables B2B cosmetic brands to empower their clients with a risk-free approach. It also depicts convenient ways to experiment with products before getting into bulk orders, thereby enhancing customer satisfaction and streamlining the purchasing process.
Integrating AR and VR into Websites and Apps
B2B cosmetic brands should invest in user-friendly and high-quality VTO features on their websites and mobile apps. Customers can virtually apply makeup, test skincare products, and receive personalized recommendations.
Collaborating with Tech Companies
Collaborating with tech companies that specialize in VTO technology can help provide access to cutting-edge solutions. As tech partners, such brands can tailor VTO experiences to suit a brand’s unique products and goals.
Designing Marketing Campaigns
Promoting the VTO experience as a key selling point in marketing campaigns is imperative.
Also, emphasize the convenience and accuracy of trying products virtually, especially in today’s increasingly digital shopping landscape.
Don’t Ignore User Education
Always provide resources and tutorials to educate users on effectively using the virtual try-on feature. Remember, clear instructions can encourage more users to explore the technology. If you have a brand website already, incorporate a blog section where you explain the features in and out and offer valuable information for prospects.
Keep Improving
No matter how big or small a brand is, it is crucial to regularly update and refine the AR experience based on user feedback and emerging trends.
Your Success As A Cosmetics Brand Is No More A Far Cry
Virtual Try-Ons powered by AR and VR technologies offer a transformative opportunity for B2B cosmetic brands to engage customers, increase sales, reduce returns, and gather valuable data insights.
SelfStylo is your cue to embrace the goodness of Augmented Reality as an emerging tech and five shapes to an immersive and personalized shopping experience.
More importantly, as a cosmetics brand, it will help you stay competitive in this ever-changing world of e-commerce. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, B2B cosmetic brands that leverage VTO will position themselves for success and customer loyalty in 2023 and beyond.
SelfStylo has helped several B2B cosmetic brands elevate customer engagement, reduce returns, offer personalized experiences, gather data-driven insights, and adapt to the changing landscape of e-commerce.
Let’s get you started with SelfStylo. Click here to request a demo now!
