MakeupPlus: Decoding a $100K/Month AI Beauty Powerhouse 💄

Onboarding: Value First, Ask Later

MakeupPlus understands the power of a strong first impression. Instead of overwhelming users with features, it immediately showcases its core value proposition.

The initial screen uses a compelling split-view comparison – "Rescue Thin Lips" – instantly demonstrating the app's transformative power. This isn't just editing; it's solving a perceived problem. Smart. 👇

The onboarding flow is concise (just 4 key steps observed), guiding users quickly towards the experience. Before hitting the main interface, however, MakeupPlus strategically presents its Free Trial offer.

The Soft Paywall Playbook 💰

MakeupPlus employs a classic Free Trial Soft Paywall. Here’s the breakdown:

• Clear Trial Structure: They lay out the 7-day trial timeline explicitly – Day 1 access, Day 5 reminder, Day 7 trial end and charge ($29.99/year). Transparency builds trust.
• Benefits Highlighted: Access to "all premium features and makeup styles" is the core incentive.
• Low Initial Friction: The "Start 7 days Free Trial" button is prominent, making entry feel easy.
• Post-Trial Confirmation: After accepting the trial, a "Congratulation! You are now a Premium Member" popup reinforces the user's new status, creating a sense of belonging and reducing immediate churn.

This approach aims to hook users with premium features during the trial, making the annual subscription feel indispensable by Day 7. It's a proven tactic driving that impressive $100K monthly revenue.

Core Loop: Endless Experimentation ✨

The core app experience revolves around applying virtual makeup and filters to user photos.

• Instant Gratification: Applying pre-set looks ("Trending Makeup," "Celebrity's Look") offers a one-click transformation, delivering immediate value.
• Granular Control: Users can dive deep, adjusting everything from eyeshadow ("Rivage," "Spring Bud") and lip color ("Mocha," "Merlot") to face shape, proportions, nose, eyes, and brows. Intensity sliders allow for subtle or dramatic effects.
• Premium Content Indicators: The ubiquitous diamond icon 💎 clearly marks premium-only filters and tools, constantly reminding free trial users of the value they'll lose without converting. This subtle FOMO is a key conversion driver.
• Diverse Feature Set: Beyond basic makeup, the app offers background filters ("Love Song," "Cherry Tree"), hair color changes ("Mermaids," "Golden"), and even stickers, broadening its appeal.
• Intuitive Navigation: Filters are neatly categorized (e.g., Eyeshadow, Lipstick, Blush, Looks, Filters, Retouch), making exploration easy despite the vast number of options. The bottom navigation bar cleanly separates major editing categories.

UX/UI: Visuals That Convert

MakeupPlus excels in visual feedback and user guidance.

• Comparison Feature: The "Tap to compare" button on the save screen provides a powerful before-and-after visual, reinforcing the perceived value of the edits.
• Interactive Previews: Filter thumbnails show a preview directly on a face, allowing users to quickly scan options.
• Visual Guidance: Subtle animations and prompts like "Pinch to zoom" or tooltips ("Click and view more effects") gently guide users.
• Clean Aesthetics: Despite the complexity, the interface remains relatively clean, prioritizing the user's photo and the editing options.

Key Takeaways for Growth Teams 🚀

MakeupPlus provides a masterclass in converting users in the beauty tech space:

1. Lead with Visual Value: Instantly show, don't just tell, what your app can do. The split-screen comparison is highly effective.
2. Structure Trials Clearly: Be transparent about trial length, reminders, and costs to build trust.
3. Integrate Premium Markers: Use subtle indicators (like the diamond 💎) to constantly highlight the value of upgrading.
4. Balance Presets & Control: Offer both one-click solutions and deep customization to cater to different user needs.
5. Reinforce Value Post-Conversion: Congratulate users and remind them of the benefits immediately after they start a trial or subscribe.

By understanding these patterns – the flow, the paywall strategy, the feature presentation – teams can uncover powerful levers for boosting activation, conversion, and retention in their own apps. MakeupPlus proves that even in a crowded market, a well-executed user experience paired with smart monetization can lead to sustained success.