Artificial intelligence (AI) and its use has had its fair share of controversy. From privacy and bias concerns, to job losses, AI is changing the way we work and live and some are not sure it’s for the better. However, an area where AI is making positive strides (for the most part), is in the area of aesthetics.

‘The application of AI in aesthetics is a relatively new concept which brings a nuanced set of advantages (and challenges), offering benefits like personalised treatment plans, enhanced precision, diagnostic capabilities, and visualisation tools,” shares Dr David Jack.

These are exciting advancements most notably in the area of personalisation – not only of one of treatments but long-term treatment plans. However, Jack warns that, ‘the critical balance lies in leveraging AI to augment, rather than replace, the clinician's expertise. Ensuring robust data protection measures, promoting the development of AI literacy among clinicians, and implementing policies to enhance access and equity are essential steps toward the responsible integration of AI in aesthetic medicine.’

We chatted with Dr David Jack to discover the key advantages and disadvantages of AI infiltrating the world of aesthetics…

Benefits of AI in Aesthetic Medicine

Personalised treatment plans

AI algorithms can analyse patient data, including genetic information, lifestyle factors, and personal preferences, to create personalised treatment plans based on these parameters. This bespoke approach can potentially lead to more effective and satisfying outcomes compared to the one-size-fits-all solutions of the past.

One example of this can be seen in the latest VISIA skin analysis system. The VISIA 8.4 uses AI for the first time within a new wrinkle analysis algorithm, allowing the device to significantly improve detection and accuracy of fine lines and wrinkles, which then allows the clinician to recommend the best treatments for these signs of ageing.  

Enhanced precision and safety of devices

In procedures such as laser skin treatments, AI can help in accurately targeting treatment areas, minimising damage to surrounding tissues. This precision not only improves the safety of cosmetic procedures but also can reduce recovery time and increase the predictability of outcomes.

And it’s not only laser treatments but also radio frequency microneedling too. The new BTL Exion Fractional RF applicator uses AI pulse control. By combining the AI pulse control technology with radio frequency, the new device is able to massively reduce the pain associated with radio frequency microneedling procedures. This clever AI tech works by constantly monitoring the skin tissue the needles are being used on and then adjusts the levels of radio frequency accordingly offering the right amount of energy being delivered to each area of skin. This makes it even more beneficial for all skin types and tones and helps further avoid the already low risk of burning, scarring or pigmentation issues.

Diagnostic capabilities

AI has shown early promise in diagnosing skin conditions more accurately than traditional methods. By analysing images of the skin, algorithms can assist clinicians in identifying issues such as melanoma at an earlier stage, thereby extending the scope of aesthetic medicine into preventative care.

Simulation and visualisation

AI-driven tools can simulate the outcomes of aesthetic procedures, providing patients with a visual representation of potential results. Think uploading an image of yourself and then seeing what you would look like after the likes of muscle relaxing injections, dermal filler, or cosmetic surgery procedures like liposuction and breast augmentation. This can aid in decision-making, set realistic expectations, and improve patient satisfaction.

Disadvantages of AI in Aesthetic Medicine

Loss of human intuition and creativity

The application of AI might sideline the human elements of intuition and creativity, which are crucial in aesthetic medicine. The subjective nature of beauty and individual patient needs may not always be fully understood or appreciated by an algorithm.

Not to mention there are already instances where AI has shown to have a limited capacity when it comes to the idea of what and who is beautiful. Conforming very much to Western conventional beauty ideals, this can result in ‘make-over’ imagery that is unrealistic and that can dent a patients confidence in their looks.

Data Privacy and security concerns

The reliance on extensive personal and medical data raises significant privacy and security issues. The risk of data breaches could expose sensitive patient information, leading to potential misuse and ethical violations.

Overreliance and skill degradation

There's a risk that clinicians might become overly reliant on AI tools, potentially leading to a degradation of their own diagnostic and procedural skills. This could negatively impact the quality of care in scenarios where AI assistance is not available or fails.