Augmented reality has already established itself as an exciting technology across several sectors, letting people visualise furniture in their homes and play real-world video games. How is it being harnessed in the beauty world to deliver personalised and seamless shopping experiences?

AR advertising on Facebook news feeds is being embraced by beauty brands like Bobbi Brown, Sephora and Michael Kors. Given that 77% of Americans own a smartphone, AR advertising is a playful and effective way for people to ‘try before they buy’ and experiment with beauty options.

The beauty world is being transformed by new technologies that personalise products to the individual, offering perfectly blended foundation and uniquely formulated hair care. How might customisation impact this historically segregated sector? And could tailored cosmetics become the norm?

Peer reviews have empowered people to confidently order almost anything online – but would you get a new deodorant without smelling it or buy lipstick without testing the shade first-hand? Canvas8 spoke to 20 Americans to understand how they prefer to shop for beauty and grooming products.