Hair you go: Hong Kong start-up HairCoSys uses AI to bring personalised care to the masses

HairCoSys, a start-up based in Hong Kong, is revolutionising the hair care industry with its artificial intelligence (AI) powered platform. This innovative technology can detect and prevent hair loss by analysing photos of users' heads to identify any hair and scalp conditions. Once these conditions are identified, the platform suggests potential treatments.

The concept of HairCoSys was born during the Covid-19 pandemic when the founder and CEO, Michael Wong, noticed his friend's hair loss problem. This observation sparked the idea for a solution to hair loss. The HairCoSys app utilises an iPad and a handheld lens to conduct a thorough evaluation of the user's hair and scalp. The technology employs patented algorithms to calculate the number of hairs and measure the thickness of hair shafts in specific areas of the scalp. This quantified data is then used to analyse the user's hair and scalp health and match them with the appropriate product solution.

The AI model of HairCoSys has been trained with a data pool of over one million hair photos. The firm also receives academic research support from the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology and the City University of Hong Kong. The hair care market in Hong Kong is projected to reach a value of US$350 million this year, with a compound annual growth rate of 1. 7 per cent up to 2028. HairCoSys aims to integrate its AI technology into various related sectors, including hairdressing, shampooing, hair care products, and beauty institutions, thereby creating a comprehensive hair care ecosystem.