latest technology provides cosmetics advice

Every woman's dream is to have her own personal make-up artist. That dream could soon be a reality with a computer that scans your face and suggests the perfect personalised make-up combination.

The technology, showcased at CeBIT, the world's biggest high-tech fair, takes a 3D image of your face and measures your complexion, shadows and lines.

Specially designed computer software then matches your face to 60 pre-programmed models and advises how much make-up should be applied to which parts of your face based on professional make-overs conducted on the models.

The computer can also tell you if your tried-and-tested make-up combinations are actually right for your face, explained Kristina Scherbaum, who developed the programme at the prestigious Max Planck Institute.

"We also take into consideration certain personal facial characteristics, like freckles or moles. Furthermore, we can determine whether or not already existing make-up on a woman suits her face," she added.

The software, currently only available for women, is at the research stage at the moment but could easily be adapted for commercial use, said Himangsho Saikia, who designed the interface system.

"Professional make-up is expensive but with this, you could turn on your computer in the morning, use a web-cam and have your make-up done for you," he said.

The system can also be modified to provide cosmetics advice in different situations, such as jazzy make-up for an evening party or more sober for work.

CeBIT is showcasing the latest technology and gadgets from some 4,200 exhibitors and hopes to attract around 350,000 visitors.