The Aesthetic Edge: April 2026

Stay up to date with the latest research and trends in aesthetics to keep patients informed in the April edition of The Aesthetic Edge. Dermatology Times asks our readers to share the latest aesthetic formulas and innovative technologies they’ve been seeing in the clinic. Is there a new skin care product that you’ve recommended to your patients or have conducted research on? Email Dermatology Times Assistant Editor, Marie Bosslett ([email protected]) to share your insights and experience with our audience of clinicians, and you may be featured in an upcoming roundup!

Triple Density Complex Pre-Wash Scalp Oil | rhute

This pre-wash scalp oil was created by consultant dermatologist and brand founder Aamna Adel, MBBS, MRCP, PgCERT, who specializes in treating hair loss for both adult and pediatric patients. Unlike traditional oils that focus on conditioning the hair shaft, this formula benefits the hair strands by intervening at the scalp and uses a multi-mechanism lipid complex with phytosterols (including saw palmetto and beta-sitosterol) alongside a proprietary Density Complex of ceramides and barrier-supporting oils like pumpkin seed, castor, and black seed, to block DHT.¹ In a 4-week clinical study of 34 patients, 100% of participants reported reduced scalp dryness, 97% noted less irritation, and 91% observed fuller, thicker-looking hair. After first use, over 90% reported improved hydration, softness, and manageability. It is particularly well-suited for patients experiencing early-stage thinning or shedding, scalp dryness or irritation, breakage or frizz, and those influenced by hair oiling trends seeking a more clinically grounded solution. The lightweight format makes it appropriate for a range of hair types, including fine and textured hair. Overall hair quality and barrier function will be improved, as rhute’s first-step oil helps to support a balanced scalp environment for healthier hair growth.

“I saw consumers turning to rosemary oil for growth. But most formulas weren’t addressing DHT signaling, barrier health, or the scalp environment as a whole. I wanted to create something that felt ritualistic but was scientifically-backed and engineered with mechanism in mind. Healthy hair growth begins with a healthy scalp. Growth cannot occur optimally in a compromised barrier. The scalp is skin, and we have to treat it that way.” - Aamna Adel, MBBS, MRCP, PgCERT, consultant dermatologist at 152 Harley Street Clinic in London, England, and founder of rhute, told Dermatology Times.

Elasticity Reinforcing Lipid-Cream | Sweet Chemistry

This high-performing moisturizer contains approximately 30% less water than traditional moisturizers and over 4 times the typical level of actives, with a total active concentration of 46%. This lipid-rich yet lightweight emollient enhances absorption while reinforcing the skin’s natural barrier and structural integrity, helping skin feel stronger, smoother, and more supple over time. At the core of the formula is 3% Matrikynes, a proprietary complex of ECM-extracted regenerative peptides designed to support skin repair and elasticity. This is complemented by a potent blend of clinically backed actives, including 2% THD Ascorbate to brighten and even tone, a 3% ceramide, phytosphingosine, and cholesterol complex to restore barrier function, and a 1% amino acid blend to support hydration and resilience. Additionally, 16% organic antioxidant extracts and anti-inflammatory plant oils to defend against environmental stressors, with 2% colloidal oatmeal to soothe and calm irritation. In independent clinical studies, statistically significant improvements were seen between 4 and 8 weeks across key markers of skin health, including barrier function and repair, density, hydration and radiance, hyperpigmentation, and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.²

“Sweet Chemistry’s Elasticity Reinforcing Lipid-Cream is a rich regenerative cream designed to support collagen, improve skin density, repair skin, and restore barrier strength, powered by 3% clinically studied and patent-pending Matrikynes ECM-extracted polypeptides. Formulated with 30% less water than traditional creams and containing over 4x the amount of actives – the Elasticity Reinforcing Lipid-Cream, along with all of Sweet Chemistry’s products, are made to deliver regenerative skincare with efficacy.” - Alec Batis, CEO and co-founder of Sweet Chemistry, said to Dermatology Times

Phyto Nature E² Regenerating Daily Exosome Leave-on Treatment | Dermalogica

This dual-action regenerating leave-on treatment operates across multiple layers of skin: enzymes gently clear away dull, dead surface cells while exosomes act as intelligent cell messengers, activating and accelerating the skin's natural renewal process from within and improving regeneration by 86%, based on in vitro testing. Dermalogica’s exosome blend technology is combined with pumpkin enzyme, phyto glycogen, prickly pear, and bio-fermented acetyl glucosamine for brighter, smoother skin, along with enhanced hydration and antioxidant protection. In an independent study with 32 patients, twice-daily use delivered visible anti-aging results in just 8 weeks, with fine lines and wrinkles showing improvement in as little as 2 weeks.³ Its lightweight, silky texture makes advanced exosome technology uniquely available in a leave-on format that can easily fit into any patient’s skin care routine. It’s recommended for those with mature or prematurely aging skin who are looking to improve firmness and elasticity.

"Today's consumers aren't just looking to reduce the appearance of wrinkles — they're seeking advanced formulas that support the skin's natural renewal. Phyto Nature E2 helps boost surface exfoliation and visibly restores skin smoothness and radiance. In collaboration with our Research colleagues at Unilever, we've developed a next-generation formula that delivers a sensorial experience with visible, lasting results." - Bob Bianchini, PhD, VP of Research and Development at Dermalogica, said in a statement.

triLIFT 2.0 | Lumenis

triLIFT 2.0 is a noninvasive facial and body muscle stimulation platform designed to address muscle laxity on the face and body, a key driver of aging. Unlike traditional devices focused primarily on skin tightening or fat reduction, it targets the underlying muscle while improving dermal quality. The platform combines Dynamic Muscle Stimulation (DMSt), which delivers high-intensity contractions beyond voluntary exercise to restore tone, lift, and contour, with FibroBoost, an RF technology that uses ultrathin electrodes and double-pulse stimulation to activate fibroblasts and boost collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid production. Clinical data show increased facial muscle tone and lifting in 94% of patients and improved skin tightness in 90%, while 100% of body-treatment patients demonstrated measurable improvement, including 68% reduction in cellulite severity and a 49% increase in dermal thickness.⁴ With personalized treatment protocols and suitability for all skin types, triLIFT 2.0 helps practices deliver natural-looking results while expanding services and increasing patient capacity. The 30-minute procedure requires no downtime, achieving a naturally toned and lifted look for on-the-go patients and providers.

"With triLIFT 2.0, our approach to both facial and body treatments have evolved significantly. We are seeing an increasing number of patients seeking nonsurgical options to address laxity in areas such as under the chin, the arms, waist, and glutes. triLIFT 2.0’s muscle targeting approach aligns with current clinical understanding of structural aging, allowing us to address tone and contour more comprehensively while maintaining a strong safety profile and minimal downtime that integrates seamlessly into everyday practice,” James Chelnis, MD, FACS, ophthalmic plastic and reconstructive surgeon and head of Manhattan Face and Eye in New York and New Jersey, said to Dermatology Times.

Advanced Clear & Defend Fungal Nail Renewal | Kerasal

Kerasal’s new formula works synergistically to improve the look of damaged nails instantly while helping protect against future surface damage from fungus. Spirulina algae extract helps condition and protect the nail surface, while vitamin B5 supports hydration, flexibility, and surface strength. It is ideal for patients looking for a visible solution that is compatible with their standard nail care routine, including polish application. With just twice-weekly use, the solution forms a protective barrier to help defend vulnerable nails and support healthier regrowth, leaving a natural shine on bare toenails and fingernails.

"Many patients are surprised by how common nail fungus is, and they’re often looking for simple, but impactful, solutions that can help improve the appearance of damaged nails while protecting them from further surface damage. I recommend Kerasal Advanced Clear & Defend Fungal Nail Renewal to patients because spirulina algae extract and vitamin B5 help condition the nail surface, working to visibly improve the look of nails while conditioning and supporting the nail surface. And the twice-weekly application and polish-friendly formula makes it easy for patients to incorporate into their regular nail care routine,” Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York and New Jersey, said in a press release.

References

1. Adel A. Pumpkin Seed Oil for Hair: Why Dermatologists Rate It So Highly. Rhute Answers. rhute. April 20, 2026. https://rhutehair.com/blogs/rhute-answers/pumpkin-seed-oil-for-hair

2. O’Neill J, Nichols Chiu A, Kissel N, et al. Clinical Evaluation of Matrikynes: A Novel Cosmetic Ingredient Comprised of Matrikine Peptides. Xylyx Bio Inc. 3 April 2023. https://xylyxbio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/white-paper_clinical-evaluation-of-matrikynes.pdf

3. Phyto Nature E² with next-gen exosomes gives 6 years back*. News release. PR Newswire. Published January 2, 2026. Accessed April 24, 2026. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/phyto-nature-e-with-next-gen-exosomes-gives-6-years-back-302646313.html

4. Kaplan H, Gat A. Clinical and histopathological results following TriPollar radiofrequency skin treatments. J Cosmet Laser Ther. 2009;11(2):78-84. doi:10.1080/14764170902846227

5. Kerasal® Introduces Innovative Beauty Ritual with Launch of Kerasal® Advanced Clear & Defend Fungal Nail Renewal. News release. PR Newswire. Published April 7, 2026. Accessed April 24, 2026. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/kerasal-introduces-innovative-beauty-ritual-with-launch-of-kerasal-advanced-clear--defend-fungal-nail-renewal-302735074.html