Smartskin Africa, a new artificial intelligence (AI)-powered skincare platform developed by Accessplus Communications Ltd, has been launched to help users better understand their skin and receive personalised product recommendations. The innovation marks a significant step in Ghana’s expanding adoption of technology in beauty and wellness.

At the launch on November 14, CEO of Accessplus Communications Ltd, Kelvin Boateng, said the platform was created to close the knowledge gap many people have about their own skin.

“Most people do not know their skin. Most people do not know the type of skin they have,” he explained. “A lot of people follow the masses using products simply because they saw them on TV or because someone else said it worked for them.”

Smartskin Africa allows users to upload or take a selfie, which the AI then analyses across 15 parameters, including acne, uneven tone, dark spots, multi-pigmentation, hydration levels, eye wrinkles, dark circles, skin firmness, redness and crow’s feet.

According to Mr Boateng, the system’s real strength lies in its deep training on the full spectrum of African skin.

“Our AI is well-trained when it comes to African skin. And when I say African skin, I don’t mean just dark skin. There are various shades, light skin, mid-brown, dark brown,” he said.

The platform, built by computer engineers and dermatologists from across the world, also functions as a skin-tracking tool, enabling users to monitor gradual changes over time. This helps individuals understand how weather, dehydration and stress affect their skin health.

“Your skin changes. It evolves. If you decide to use a product to improve, for example, sunburns, how are you sure your skin is getting better or worse? That’s where this platform comes in,” Mr. Boateng noted.

For the most accurate results, users are encouraged to scan their faces in good lighting, without makeup or sweat, preferably in the morning after a shower.

Mr. Boateng stressed that the platform is not meant to diagnose serious skin conditions.

“If you have a serious skin concern, we advise that you seek medical attention,” he cautioned.

The launch of Smartskin Africa adds momentum to the rise of digital tools in Africa’s beauty and wellness industry, providing accessible, personalised solutions in a sector where expert guidance has often been limited.