Dr. Alex Box’s world-first virtual cosmetic software, V-Metics, has recently been awarded UKRI funding, highlighting the growing importance of tech as a tool for the future of the beauty industry
V-Metics, the world’s first virtual cosmetic software, has announced it has been awarded funding from the UKRI via The Creative Catalyst Competition. Founded by Dr Alex Box, one of the leading pioneers of Beauty Futurism, V-Metics challenges what we think of when we hear the word ‘make-up.’
The software helps brands creatively incorporate technology into their strategy, allowing digitised ‘real world’ makeup to be placed onto digital humans. Box and V-Metics aims to provide users of the software with a unique experience that takes editorial dimensions.
By winning The Creative Catalyst, V-Metics will receive funding and a package of tailored non-financial support. This includes backing of up to £50,000 and access to UKRI’s global network and 1:1 business support.
In recent years we have seen brands explore how technology can develop their consumer experiences, meeting clear demands from a consumer base that wants their beauty products to be future-facing. The British Beauty Council’s Value of Beauty 2023 report highlighted the increased use of technology in the beauty sector, estimating global spending by retailers on digital services to grow by £10 billion between 2022 and 2023.
From elevating the practical everyday such as matching foundation shades or recommending personalised skincare routines, to improving digital consumer engagement, technology has become a key component for the beauty world.
V-Metics goes one step further in this technological advance, welcoming brands to be even more boundary-breaking. This innovation has clearly been recognised through the reward of UKRI funding, backed by the Government, UKRI funding and grants are often allocated to start-ups and businesses at the beginning of their journey, offering support to effectively expand their creation.
The takeaway for V-Metics? Watch this space.
