Dermatology Times 2025 Year in Review: Aesthetics

In 2025, aesthetic dermatology continued to evolve at the intersection of innovation, safety, and shifting patient expectations. Advances in injectables, energy-based devices, and regenerative approaches expanded the toolbox, while regulatory activity and postmarket data reinforced the importance of evidence-based adoption and thoughtful clinical oversight. At the same time, patients increasingly sought natural-looking results, skin quality improvement, and personalized treatment plans, reshaping how aesthetic care is delivered in clinical practice.

Regulatory Developments and Industry Momentum

Aesthetics coverage in 2025 captured a year of regulatory progress, pipeline expansion, and heightened safety awareness. FDA reviews and approvals spanned injectables, dermal fillers, microneedling systems, and next-generation energy-based platforms, underscoring continued innovation across aesthetic modalities.

Phase 3b Data Reinforce Rapid, Long-Lasting Efficacy of RelabotulinumtoxinA for Glabellar Lines

New RELAX trial data show Relfydess delivers rapid onset and 6-month efficacy.

AbbVie Files BLA for TrenibotE in Glabellar Lines

AbbVie seeks FDA approval for TrenibotE, a first-in-class botulinum toxin offering fast onset and short duration for glabellar lines.

FDA Reviews sPMA to Expand SKINVIVE by Juvéderm for Neck Line Treatment

The FDA has accepted for review Allergan Aesthetics' sPMA for SKINVIVE by Juvéderm, seeking approval to treat neck lines.

MJH Life Sciences Expands Beauty and Aesthetics Scope With NewBeauty

MJH Life Sciences acquires NewBeauty, merging clinical expertise with consumer-driven wellness to redefine beauty and aesthetics media.

Clinical Trials Support New Retinal Formulation Tolerability

Discover the benefits of RetaXome therapy for sensitive skin and its potential in skin care routines.

FDA Clears Dermalogica's PRO Pen Microneedling System as a Class II Medical Device

Dermalogica's PRO Pen Microneedling System gains FDA clearance, revolutionizing non-invasive skin treatments with advanced technology and customizable options.

Obagi Medical Expands Into Fillers Following FDA Approval

The new product expands Obagi Medical’s portfolio beyond skin care into injectables.

Evolus Submits Evolysse Sculpt for FDA Approval, Expanding HA Dermal Filler Portfolio

Evolus advances facial aesthetics with Evolysse Sculpt, a new hyaluronic acid gel targeting mid-face volume loss, pending FDA approval.

FDA Alerts Clinicians to Serious Complications with Radiofrequency Microneedling Devices

FDA warns of serious risks associated with RF microneedling, urging patient education and careful provider training to ensure safety in aesthetic dermatology.

Next-Gen AVAVA Platform Cleared by FDA for Wrinkle Reduction Across All Skin Types

AVAVA receives FDA clearance for wrinkle treatment, showcasing significant results and high patient satisfaction with its innovative Focal Point Technology.

Shifting Aesthetic Trends and Patient Preferences

This year, there was a clear shift toward subtlety, skin quality, and individualized outcomes, often described as the “undetectable” era of aesthetics. Our articles explored evolving approaches to lip augmentation, changing expectations among Gen Z and Millennial patients, and the growing influence of social media on product popularity and safety education. Coverage of laser, energy-based, and cosmeceutical trends highlighted how clinicians are adapting techniques and regimens to align with patient demand for natural-looking, long-term results.

“Lip Flips” or Lip Filler? Analyzing the Latest Trends in Lip Augmentation

The lip augmentation market is projected to reach a value of 11.6 billion USD by 2030.

“The Undetectable Era”: How Patients Are Shifting Towards More Natural-Looking Results at the Clinic

In a conversation with Kristy Hamilton, MD, FACS, she spoke about the recent aesthetic trend and how clinicians can align with new patient expectations.

Which Cosmeceuticals Are Most Popular, According to Social Media?

Google search trends and TikTok view counts were used to analyze the public popularity of cosmeceutical ingredients like retinol, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide.

“Open Sandwich” Moisturization Regimen Does Not Affect Bioactivity of Retinols and Retinoids

Asha Patel Shah, MD, MBA, FAAD, discusses recent research on retinol and retinoid bioactivity when layered with moisturizers, highlighted at AAD 2025.

The Latest Trends in Laser and Energy-Based Dermatology

Dendy Engelman, MD, FACMS, FAAD, explores the latest advancements in laser and energy-based dermatological treatments, including skin resurfacing and body contouring.

What Aesthetic Trends Are You Seeing in Gen Z and Millennial Patients? 

Explore the evolving aesthetic trends among Millennials and Gen Z, focusing on their unique preferences for skin care, fillers, and Botox treatments.

Current Clinical and Aesthetic Applications of Snail Mucin

Snail slime contains bioactive compounds that promote skin healing, hydration, and regeneration.

Social Media Fails on Retinol Safety Education

Social media spreads significant retinol misinformation, risking adolescent skin health. Experts call for improved digital education and accurate content creation.

Sachin M. Shridharani, MD, FACS, Reflects on 2025 Trends and Predicts What’s Next in Aesthetic Dermatology

Discover the latest trends in aesthetic dermatology for 2025, including innovative treatments and the impact of social media on patient choices.

Expert Perspectives and Practical Clinical Guidance

Interviews and clinical features throughout the year emphasized the art and science of modern aesthetic practice, blending technical expertise with ethical considerations and patient communication. Topics ranged from device selection and chemical peel protocols to regenerative aesthetics, skin of color considerations, and the role of dermatology within multispecialty care models.

Four Key Factors When Buying Dermatology Devices

Suneel Chilukuri, MD, says devices should be user-friendly even in solo practice settings to maximize efficiency and usability.

Practice What You Preach: A Clinician's Guide to Chemical Peels

Hershel Dobkin, MD, FAAD, underwent the procedure in order to connect with his patients considering it for themselves.

Why Patients Are Choosing Regenerative Aesthetics Over Quick Fixes

Robin Smith, MD, MBA, champions exosome-powered skincare for long-lasting skin health and personalized regenerative aesthetics solutions for patients.

Collaborating for Better Aesthetics: Why Dermatology Matters in Multispecialty Medicine

Explore the evolving landscape of dermatology as experts emphasize the importance of cross-specialty collaboration and patient-centered care in aesthetic medicine.

Why Patient Education Is the Foundation of Natural Yet Noticeable Aesthetic Results

Lisa Espinoza, MD, highlights the importance of patient education and tailored HA filler treatments for achieving natural cosmetic results.

Joely Kaufman, MD, on Proactively Integrating GLP-1 Use into Aesthetic Practice

Clinicians can enhance aesthetic outcomes by proactively managing GLP-1 patients' expectations, addressing facial changes early, and integrating holistic treatment strategies.

Key Considerations and Best Practices for Aesthetic Procedures in Skin of Color

Nada Elbuluk, MD, MSc, and Nkem Ugonabo, MD, MPH, discuss safe aesthetic procedures for skin of color, emphasizing tailored techniques and the importance of understanding unique skin biology.