Changing your hairstyle can feel like a big leap. But thanks to AI-powered beauty technology and augmented reality (AR), you can now preview a new look in minutes.

I’ve experimented with nearly every cut and colour imaginable over the years — long waves, blonde bobs, sharp cropped cuts, rich brunette tones — and yes, I’m still exploring.

But here’s what matters now: not just how a hairstyle looks, but how the technology behind it works.

At Women Love Tech, we believe beauty apps should build confidence, respect your data, and reflect real diversity — not distort it.

Before You Download: 3 Things to Check

1. Privacy & Data Use

Many hairstyle apps use facial mapping technology to detect hairlines and apply colour or shape overlays. Some process images locally on your device. Others upload your selfie to cloud servers.

Before downloading:

• Check whether the app stores biometric facial data.
• Read the privacy policy (avoid vague phrases like “may share data with partners”).
• See if you can use the app without creating an account.
• Delete uploaded photos after use if cloud processing is involved.

Your face is sensitive data. Treat it that way.

2. Inclusivity & Representation

A responsible beauty app should include:

• Curly, coily and textured hair options
• Protective styles
• Short, long and shaved cuts
• Gender-neutral looks
• Diverse hair colours and cultural representation

If an app only offers one narrow beauty standard, it’s not built for everyone.

3. Realistic Visualisation — Not Face “Fixing”

The goal of a hairstyle app should be visualisation, not perfection.

Be cautious of:

• Automatic skin smoothing
• Face reshaping tools
• Filters that alter your natural features

Good beauty tech helps you experiment — not edit yourself into someone else.

8 Free Hairstyle Apps to Try

1. ModiFace

Best for realistic hair colour previews

A long-time leader in AR beauty technology, ModiFace uses advanced hair detection for accurate colour try-ons. Ideal if you’re deciding between blonde, brunette, copper, or bold shades.

🔗 Download:
Apple App Store
Google Play Store

2. Beautylish

Best for inspiration and real-world looks

More inspiration platform than editing tool, Beautylish helps you explore trending cuts and colours without heavy retouching features.

🔗 Download:
Apple App Store
Google Play Store

3. Perfect365

Best for combined makeup and hair previews

Known for makeup tools, Perfect365 also includes hairstyle features. Use mindfully and focus on hair experimentation rather than heavy facial editing.

🔗 Download:
Apple App Store
Google Play Store

4. Hairstyle Magic Mirror

Best for quick style experimentation

Simple and playful. Upload a photo and try multiple cuts and colours in minutes.

🔗 Download:
Apple App Store
Google Play Store

5. Hair Cast

Best for weather-based hair advice

A practical option that gives styling suggestions based on humidity and forecast conditions — ideal for managing frizz or flatness.

🔗 Download:
Apple App Store

6. Beautify – Hair

Best for bold colour creativity

Includes colourising tools and playful style overlays. Skip unnecessary smoothing filters and use primarily for hair experimentation.

🔗 Download:
Apple App Store
Google Play Store

7. Hair MakeOver

Best for natural-looking transformations

Upload a photo and test a wide range of classic and modern hairstyles. Great for visualising length changes.

🔗 Download:
Apple App Store

8. Hairstyle Lite

Best for testing length and shape

Includes options for different hair lengths and styles. Some designs feel dated, but useful for general visualisation.

🔗 Download:
Apple App Store

Below are free apps available at time of publishing. App features and privacy policies may change, so always review details before downloading.

Beauty Tech Should Empower — Not Pressure

Technology should expand how you express yourself, not dictate how you look.

The best hairstyle apps:

• Respect your privacy
• Celebrate diversity
• Encourage creativity
• Avoid unrealistic beauty standards

Confidence doesn’t come from filters. It comes from choice.

Most are safe, but always check privacy policies and avoid apps that store biometric data unnecessarily.

Do hairstyle apps use AI?

Yes. Many use augmented reality and facial recognition to map hairlines and apply styles.

Are there free virtual hairstyle apps?

Yes — several apps offer free features, though some include in-app purchases.