The Aesthetic Edge: August 2025

Stay up-to-date with the latest research and trends in aesthetics to keep patients informed in the August version 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 conducted research on? Email DT's Assistant Editor, Marie Bosslett (mbosslett@mjhlifesciences.com) to share your insights and experience with our audience of clinicians, and you may be featured in an upcoming roundup!

DNA Defense Daily Cream | CielementsMD

Topical cannabidiol (CBD) products are popular with both clinicians and patients now more than ever, but most lack clinical validation and stable delivery, according to Adam Friedman, MD, FAAD. To address this, Friedman, professor and chair of dermatology at the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, collaborated with CielementsMD to introduce CannaXR technology into its newest moisturizer. CannaXR utilizes patented Z-pod technology and nanoencapsulation to deliver CBD in a stabilized, skin-penetrating, and bioactive form, acting as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent and protecting against UV-A-induced molecular damage that current sunscreens don’t fully address. In a first-of-its-kind, randomized controlled trial published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, topical nanoencapsulated CBD significantly reduced UV-A-induced epidermal hyperplasia, oxidative DNA damage, and mitochondrial DNA deletions (ND1 and ND4), which are closely linked to photoaging and nonmelanoma skin cancer risk.¹ This daily cream is 12 times more potent than other products, even 6 hours after application, and is the perfect complement to traditional sunscreens. All patients can benefit from CBD’s biological activity, but especially those with a history of skin cancer, pigmentary disorders, or high sun exposure.

“This study not only positions CBD as a clinically validated active with potential implications in skin cancer prevention, photodamage mitigation, and aging intervention, but hopefully revitalizes and breathes new evidence-based life into the space. There is so much promise, we just can’t cut corners and rather trust and invest in the scientific process.” - Friedman told Dermatology Times.

Acne Scar + Spot Corrector | Silagen

With 100% medical-grade silicone, 6 actives, and patented ReTex-5 technology, this formula is ideal for patients looking to improve the redness, hyperpigmentation, and texture associated with acne scars, keloids, and indentation. In a clinical trial published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 80% of patients saw smoother skin and 83% said their skin tone and texture were more even.² Moreover, 70% observed their indented scars fading significantly. Licorice root extract, azelaic acid, vitamins C and E, bakuchiol, synoxyl acetyl zingeron, and hexylresorcinol co-exist in one non-comedogenic formulation. It’s also safe for all Fitzpatrick skin types, including those with sensitive skin, making it ideal for post-procedure care, including skin grafts and burns. This formula is exclusive to physicians and can be purchased here.

“I've been using the product in the clinical setting for about 6 to 9 months now and have noticed really significant differences in our patients and they're very, very happy. I think I've seen about 200 patients with acne scarring that I've recommended this product to, and I think a lot of colleagues in our group are now starting to use it as well.” - Lori Asztalos, MD, MS, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist at the Center for Dermatology & Plastic Surgery in Phoenix, Arizona, said to Dermatology Times.

The Catalyst | Dr. Rossi DERM MD

Dr. Rossi DERM MD was founded by Anthony Rossi, MD, FAAD, FACMS, a double board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City. This lightweight renewing serum supports his “pro-aging approach” and contains the brand’s Bio-Theriac complex, combining high concentrations of biomimetic sea anemone peptide, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid. According to the study published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, significant percentage improvements in texture (97%), lines and wrinkles (67%), redness (+50%), and tone (45%) were observed in 30 patients who used the serum every day for 4 weeks.³ Free of formaldehyde or other common contact irritants, it’s specifically geared for patients with chronic skin sensitivity, rosacea, and inflammation, especially those who have been sensitized by other active ingredients. The formula dries down smoothly and layers easily with other products, even able to act as a primer before makeup. It’s also safe for pregnant and breastfeeding patients. To add this product to your practice, visit the company’s page for professionals.

“Most products approach aging from this idea that you want to increase cellular turnover, but what we're doing is approaching aging from this inflammatory state and chronic inflammation that can lead to just the breakdown of collagen...So by stopping this, we're actually helping the skin do its job. We're helping it to age appropriately, and it looks great doing it.” - Rossi said in an interview with Dermatology Times.

HA⁵ Hydra Collagen Hydrating Foaming Cleanser | SkinMedica

This amino acid–based cleanser is formulated with the unique HA⁵ Hydra Collagen Complex, a proprietary complex of 5 forms of hyaluronic acid, nourishing the skin barrier and maintaining the skin’s natural pH levels. It retains water while gently cleansing, leaving skin refreshed, moisturized, and calm. With no drying sulfates, parabens, or fragrances, it’s suitable for all skin types for twice-daily use, even those with acne and sensitive skin. In clinical study, overall satisfaction rates were high with 100% of patients expressing that the cleanser effectively removes makeup, sunscreen, dirt, oil, and impurities while feeling gentle and non-irritating.⁴ Additionally, 2 times more patients said that their skin looked dewy and hydrated immediately after the first use. For long-term hydration, this wash can be used in conjunction with SkinMedica’s HA⁵ Hydra Collagen Replenish + Restore Hydrator. Hydration levels were boosted by 30% when patients combined both products in the line.

"Cleansing is an essential first step in any skin care routine, as it helps maintain skin health and enhance the effectiveness of the products that follow. The HA⁵ Hydra Collagen Hydrating Foaming Cleanser not only cleanses thoroughly, but it also hydrates and respects the skin barrier. I've personally experienced its benefits and will be recommending it to my patients looking to address dehydrated, dull, sensitive skin or simply maintain healthy-looking, glowing skin." Tiffany J. Libby, MD, Director of Mohs Micrographic & Dermatologic Surgery and Assistant Professor at The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, said in a statement to Dermatology Times.

ZnO+ Mineral Care CORRECT + FADE SPF50 | SunSolve MD

This innovative product is a pigmentation corrector, daily skin treatment, and SPF all in 1 step. By combining the patented SolveDNAReverse and Mela-Fix technologies, patients with hyperpigmentation can protect their skin with 12% non-nano zinc oxide for full-spectrum UVA/UVB/HEV protection while reducing the appearance of dark spots. The finish is sheer and leaves no white cast, boosting compliance in patients with melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and post-procedural skin. In an 8-week study, daily use achieved a 26% reduction in visible pigmentation and 23% improvement in overall skin clarity. In a 28-day clinical study of 33 participants, 94% saw a visible improvement with no new dark spots and more radiant and even texture without irritation (p > 0.05).⁵

“It’s rare to find a true all-in-one — protection, treatment, and pigment correction in one elegant formula.” - Wassim Taktouk, MD, aesthetic dermatologist and medical director of Taktouk Clinic in London, England, told Dermatology Times.

References

1. McCormick E, Han H, Abdel Azim S, et al. Topical nanoencapsulated cannabidiol cream as an innovative strategy combating UV-A-induced nuclear and mitochondrial DNA injury: A pilot randomized clinical study. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2024;91(5):855-862. doi:10.1016/j.jaad.2024.06.088

2. Katz BE, Mishu M, Malayeva M. A Single-Center, Open Label, Study to Evaluate the Effectiveness of Acne Scar Gel (ASG) in Improving Acne Scar Appearance and Reducing Hyperpigmentation in Subjects With Mild-To-Moderate Acne Scars. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2025;24(3):e70081. doi:10.1111/jocd.70081

3. Shah R, Kaul N, Tan I, Rossi A. Clinical Utility of TRPV1 Modulation for Skincare Sensitivity. J Drugs Dermatol. 2025;24(4):366-370. doi:10.36849/JDD.8680

4. Data on file at SkinMedica. https://www.skinmedica.com/us/product-category/facial-cleansers/20084480.html

5. Evidence. SunSolve MD. https://www.sunsolvemd.com/pages/evidence?srsltid=AfmBOoqtyGl3uRakGHgl7xJJkvV7TPKvuZpm8-YtC_Q9pRDSAZb0KUEv