My Hair is AI, But My Character is Real

My daughter messaged me after I updated my profile photo:

“Did you AI your hair?!”

“Yes. Yes I did. But theoretically my hair COULD look like this if someone else styled it,” I rationalized.

And this little interaction sent me spiraling.

About image and self-esteem. About the ethical usage of AI. And most of all, about one of my strongest values: authenticity.

A conversation about a hairstyle led me to confront how I define authenticity in an AI-augmented world.

My Lashes are False but the Emotion in My Eyes is True

Above is the original photo next to the AI version I use as my profile picture.

I was excited to take this selfie. I had just set up my first booth at an expo where I would be talking to other business owners about Character Arc Leadership Coaching. I had carried in my materials on a rainy Friday morning and put my table together. My hair was damp and I pushed it off my face before snapping a quick pic to send my husband prior to the start of the expo.

Then later I looked at the photo and the self-judgment began. My hair looks messy and thin. The angle was not my best. I wanted to use this photo to update my profile pic but I wanted it a little more polished.

So I used AI.

I do like to look my best when interacting with others. I know it doesn’t define my worth, but I feel more approachable when I’ve taken care with my appearance.

But what’s the difference between using AI to change your hairstyle and putting on makeup? Between displaying an avatar and displaying an augmented image? Between using fillers and using filters? Between wearing false eyelashes and wearing certain clothing?

What about the difference between using a thesaurus to find a new word and writing a prompt for AI to get your ideas out?

Can I be an authentic person and sell coaching about being an authentic leader if I use artificial…anything?

Before I dive further into my turmoil about authenticity, I want to address my personal dilemma with the ethics of AI usage.

My Growing Carbon Footprint and Disemployment of Artists

Yes I am concerned about the energy consumption of data centers in running generative AI models. To exploit these resources for selfish and superficial reasons like making my hair prettier makes me feel ashamed.

If I had more available funds I would have reached out to a photographer for promotional shoots for my business. I could have gotten my hair done and paid a makeup artist to ensure I looked my best.

Alas, I didn’t. There was a tool that was quick and “free” and I used it without much thought.

Starting with the Woman in the Mirror

People alter their appearance and use a variety of tools to facilitate and expedite the roles they must play in life. From clothing to makeup and spell-check to templates. Who am I to judge what is authentic to them? I know I am me no matter how made up (or not) I am.

I’ve done some deep reflection on these issues the past few weeks, and I am open to continually evolving my positions. For now, I know these things are true for me: