DermaBot

Framing the Problem

Managing skincare on a high standard can be challenging, especially for specific type of problem.

We aim to solve this problem with a smart product holder box connected to a simple digital assistant that reminds users exactly when and which product to use, removing the mental load and ensuring routine consistency.

Idea Explanation

Our idea is a simple Skincare Routine Assistant called DermaBot.

It combines a mobile application with a smart physical product holder to help users stick to their personalised skincare routine without the mental effort.

Our idea is a simple Skincare Routine Assistant, called DermaBot. An automated product that allows users to apply their personalised skincare routine easily and efficiently. It works like a smart scheduler, so users don’t have to track everything mentally.

• Users create a personal profile with details like skin type, concerns, and routine preferences.

• Products can be added manually, by scanning a QR code, or via a website link. An AI assistant pulls all key information (ingredients, usage, frequency) into the database.

• The assistant sends clear, visual reminders to the user’s mobile device at the exact time a product should be applied, along with instructions.

• A smart physical product box, connected via Arduino component, holds the selected products. The lid of the relevant product compartment automatically opens at the right time, optionally with a gentle sound to get the user's attention.

• The system tracks product usage, reminds users when to restock, and stores purchase details and costs.

• Users can easily share their routine summary with beauticians or dermatologists for more effective consultations.

Our solution simplifies complex skincare routines by automating reminders, easily collecting product information, keep in track of inventory and providing quick access, all in one saving mental effort and keeping your routine consistent.

Implementation

Our system combines a mobile/web application with a connected physical product holder to deliver an effortless skincare routine experience.

• Frontend: Built with JavaScript, the app provides a user-friendly interface for managing routines, adding products, and receiving visual reminders with product images.

• Backend: Developed in Python using FastAPI and pg8000, the backend handles all business logic, communicates with the database, and connects to the physical product. We use FastAPI to create API endpoints for the frontend, and tools like ngrok for secure, remote access during development.

• Database: A PostgreSQL database stores user profiles, product details, routines, and system data, with pg8000 managing database connections. Database ERD Diagram

• Physical Product Holder: A smart box controlled by an Arduino, connected to the backend. It receives commands via API calls to automatically open compartments at the right time and manage mechanical functions.

The frontend communicates with the backend through API requests, while the backend connects to the database and the physical device, ensuring all components work together smoothly. The mobile app features a clean, simple design that mainly uses images to clearly show which product to use at each step.

Challenges

1. We struggled with managing time as we had many ideas for both the physical product and the mobile application. - However, we focused on the most essential features and showcased the ideas through prototypes.

2. Creating the mobile application: Due to limited mobile development skills, we designed the app prototype in Figma and built a basic web app version to demonstrate parts of the functionality through other coding solutions.

3. Connecting frontend with backend: It was our first time using some of these technologies, so we used ngrok for quick testing and plan to improve this part with more time and experience.

4. Creating a website: Unfortunately, we did not have enough time to polish everything, and connect the javascript to the main. We showed the concept with HTML.

Accomplishments

We learned how to turn our idea into a working prototype and represent our idea, combining both digital and physical components. We gained experience with Figma, web app development, backend setup, and connecting to a physical device.

Next Steps & Potential Extensions

• Improve backend and device integration.

• Turn the prototype into a fully functional mobile app.

• Refine the physical product for real-world use.

• Develop a complementary app for makeup routines.

• Add features that connect to different product suppliers.

• Enable automated product ordering by linking a bank card, and sellers, adding address details.

• Integrate with online forums to easily find, save, and organize skincare information.