The Aesthetic Edge: August 2026

Stay up to date with the latest research and trends in aesthetics to keep patients informed in the August 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!

Journée Revitalizing Day Cream SPF 30 | NEOCUTIS

Journée has returned to the NEOCUTIS (Merz Aesthetics) portfolio, combining broad-spectrum UV and antioxidant protection with the brand's foundational proprietary Processed Skin Protein (PSP) technology to provide scientifically backed skin rejuvenation benefits, such as hydration and anti-aging qualities. Originally derived from regenerative wound-healing research, PSP contains a blend of human growth factors that help promote collagen and hyaluronic acid production. In clinical studies evaluating the technology, patients demonstrated improvements in periorbital wrinkles (83%), perioral wrinkles (50%), chin texture (67%), and cheek texture (56%) after 60 days of use.¹ Journeé is well suited for patients concerned with photoaging, fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of skin firmness who want to simplify their daily skin care regimen. By combining sunscreen protection with growth factor-based anti-aging technology, the day cream offers a differentiated approach to supporting overall skin health.

“The reintroduction of Journée reflects the strength and durability of the original formulation. Our team engineered this product to integrate growth factors derived from wound healing research with proven antioxidants and SPF in a way that maintains efficacy without compromising skin feel or usability. It’s a highly efficient composition designed to support skin structure, hydration, and protection, simultaneously.” - Samantha Kerr, PhD, chief scientific officer at Merz Aesthetics, said in a press release.

HydraScalp with Keravive | Hydrafacial

This non-invasive scalp treatment was designed to improve scalp health and the appearance of fuller, healthier-looking hair without downtime. Powered by Hydrafacial’s Vortex-Fusion Technology and Keravive biomimetic peptides, the three-step protocol is designed to purify the scalp by removing buildup and exfoliating, nourish it with hydrating peptides and growth factor-inspired ingredients, and boost results with a daily take-home peptide complex spray. Clinical findings showed a sixfold increase in scalp hydration after a single treatment, along with visible reductions in dryness, flaking, and roughness. After 2 in-office treatments and 8 weeks of daily take-home peptide spray use, 75% of participants reported improved hair fullness; following 3 treatments over 3 months, 82% said their hair looked healthier and shinier.² It’s a great option for patients concerned with scalp dryness, buildup, flaking, or the appearance of thinning hair who prefer a non-invasive approach and may be incorporated alongside broader hair restoration strategies as part of a combined maintenance regimen.

“We’re seeing a growing recognition that the scalp is simply an extension of your skin, and it deserves the same level of care. Optimal hair health truly begins with optimal scalp health. Factors like lifestyle, environmental exposure, and even the products you use can have a major impact on your scalp health and, in turn, hair growth. Supporting the scalp through consistent cleansing and hydration helps create the right foundation for healthy hair, and treatments like the Hydrafacial HydraScalp with Keravive can help remove buildup, replenish hydration, and promote a balanced scalp environment over time.” - Corey Hartman, MD, FAAD, founder and medical director of Skin Wellness Dermatology in Birmingham, Alabama, assistant clinical professor at the University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine, and Dermatology Times Editorial Advisory Board member, said in a press statement.

Antimicrobial Purifying Mist | PanOxyl

PanOxyl’s stabilized hypochlorous acid mist is a gentle antimicrobial option for use throughout the day. The formulation is designed to remain stable in its packaged form, addressing a limitation of homemade hypochlorous acid preparations, which may have a much shorter period of stability against bacteria, fungi, yeast, and some viruses.³ The spray can be used as a convenient hygiene step after exercise, during travel, or throughout the day on the face, body, and even surfaces. It can also be applied over makeup and sunscreen without affecting either. It has also been suggested as an alternative to traditional alcohol-based toners, which may be drying for some patients. The non-drying formula may make it particularly relevant for patients with acne-prone, sensitive, or irritation-prone skin looking to add this simple step into their skin care routines. For clinicians, this mist may be most useful as an adjunctive skin care and hygiene option to help treat blemishes, soothe redness, and refresh the skin.

“Most toners have an alcohol base, so it actually dries out the skin. What we found with using PanOxyl’s hypochlorous acid, it will not dry out the skin. Patients that have eczema, rosacea, seborrheic dermatitis, sensitive skin in general...they tend to get really dried out by the alcohol content that's inside a toner. This doesn't dry out the skin, so it's extremely safe to use in all skin types. That spray is really remarkable. It's one of my favorite things.” - Suneel Chilukuri, MD, board-certified dermatologist at Refresh Dermatology in Houston, Texas, said.

Tri-Therapy Lifting Serum withMicroDiPeptide229 | NEOSTRATA

NEOSTRATA’s SKIN ACTIVE serum addresses a growing concern among patients as rapid GLP-1-associated weight loss and intrinsic aging contribute to changes in the skin's extracellular matrix, leading to visible loss of firmness, elasticity, and facial contour. Powered by the brand’s patented MicroDiPeptide229, a proprietary peptide that penetrates the skin's surface and stimulates collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid production, the serum supports the skin's structural matrix while visibly improving firmness and overall skin quality. In a study conducted by NEOSTRATA’s parent company, Kenvue, 92% of participants reported improved jawline and facial contour after 16 weeks, while 87% reported improved skin firmness and elasticity after 12 weeks.⁴ Suitable for all skin types, this unique serum offers an evidence-based topical option to patients experiencing age-related skin laxity or skin quality changes while providing a new approach to supporting the skin's underlying structure, not just treating visible signs of aging.

“As dermatologists care for more patients experiencing age-related skin laxity and skin quality changes associated with rapid weight loss, preserving the skin's extracellular matrix has become increasingly important. We developed our patented MicroDiPeptide229 technology to support skin’s natural collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid, helping improve firmness, elasticity, and facial contour through an evidence-based topical approach." - Barbara Green, RPh, MS, Lead Scientist at NEOSTRATA, told Dermatology Times.

Nordic Hydra Aqua Hydration Serum | LUMENE

This lightweight, gel-textured hydrator is formulated with patent-pending Nordic Hyalu-Birch technology, which combines 3 molecular weights of hyaluronic acid with Nordic birch leaf extract and xylitol. It’s designed not only to hydrate the skin but also to support its natural hydration and barrier function, making it a potential option for patients with dryness or dehydration.⁵ Preclinical testing of the technology included an in vitro gene-expression study in normal human epidermal keratinocytes, where the combination increased expression of loricrin, a protein involved in epidermal barrier function and hydration. Testing in a reconstructed human epidermis model similarly demonstrated increased loricrin expression. In vivo testing reported sustained hydration for 72 hours after a single application, with reduced transepidermal water loss suggesting improved barrier function. In a clinical test of 21 patients, 100% reported that their skin felt hydrated, while 95% reported a plumper feel and 95% said their skin looked dewy after use. The serum's lightweight texture could appeal to patients seeking hydration without a heavy or occlusive feel, no matter what skin type they have.

"The Nordic Hydra Aqua Serum differentiates itself from conventional hydrating serums through its novel, patent-pending hydration technology. This serum does not only deliver water to the skin but also fights against dehydration by boosting skin’s own ability to hydrate.” - Terhi Pesonen, Formulation Director and Head of Skin Care R&D at Lumene Group, told Dermatology Times

Smart Eye Density Undereye Serum | Dermalogica

Dermalogica’s Smart Eye Density is a targeted undereye serum designed to address visible changes associated with age-related loss of skin density, including hollowness, discoloration, and thinning. The lightweight formula centers on a growth factor complex delivered through an oleosomal system, with the goal of supporting skin-rebuilding signaling in the delicate periorbital area. It also contains 2 types of hyaluronic acid for hydration and volumization, along with rye-seed extract, polyglutamic acid, and sweet potato extract with CoQ10 to address the appearance of discoloration. An independent clinical study of 33 patients found a 129% increase in undereye density after 4 weeks, with participants using the product twice daily for 8 weeks.⁶ Patients with early-to-moderate visible thinning, dehydration, hollowness, or discoloration who are seeking a noninvasive treatment option may find benefit. 

“From an education perspective, we see undereye hollowness as a density issue that requires a more advanced understanding of skin function. That same mindset shaped Smart Eye Density. Growth factors are naturally occurring signaling proteins that help support skin's renewal processes, and in this formula we use next-generation, biomimetic growth factors from plant-based and bacterial sources. By pairing them with a smart oleosomal delivery system, we're able to enhance stability and deliver controlled, targeted support to the delicate eye area. It's a treatment-informed approach, grounded in skin biology and professional expertise." - Heather Hickman, VP of Global Education at Dermalogica, said in a statement.

Triple Paste Eczema Care

Triple Paste’s new eczema-focused portfolio addresses both acute flare-ups and ongoing skin barrier support in babies, children, and adults. The two-step approach pairs a Flare-Up Rescue Balm containing 2% colloidal oatmeal for itching and irritation with Daily Barrier Cream formulations containing 1% ectoin as a barrier-resilience ingredient intended to support hydration and barrier stability. The products are steroid-free, fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and dermatologist-tested, with the line carrying the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance.⁷ The regimen may be relevant for patients and families seeking nonsteroidal options for daily AD care, particularly those with sensitive or compromised skin. It can be used both during and between active flares rather than just as symptomatic relief.

"Eczema can feel like a constant series of managing symptoms, finding triggers and trying to stay ahead of the next flare. As a dermatologist, and a mom of family members living with eczema, I know first-hand how frustrating that experience can be. What makes Triple Paste Eczema Care stand out is that it was designed around the reality of how eczema behaves, using a differentiated 2% colloidal oatmeal to help rapidly soothe itching and irritation during flare-ups, and 1% ectoin to help support hydration and barrier stability. It's a system I feel confident recommending to my patients and using with my own family." - Aleksandra Brown, DO, FAOCD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist at River Ridge Dermatology in Roanoke, Virginia, said in the press release.

DoubleKiss Bento Blur + Glow | Kaja Beauty

The trend of combining skin care with makeup is continuing with Kaja’s Double Kiss Bento, a dual-texture cheek and lip color designed to combine 2 complementary finishes in a compact, layerable format. Available in 3 shades, the blendable formula is designed to provide buildable color with a soft, diffused finish and more than 12 hours of color retention. The formulations incorporate skin care-oriented ingredients like ceramide NP to support the skin's moisture barrier and a peptide complex intended to help firm and smooth the appearance of skin. Shade-specific fruit extracts (vanilla, fig, and cherry) provide additional conditioning, moisturizing, or antioxidant properties.⁸ In clinical testing, 100% of participants reported satisfaction with the smoother-looking, blurred finish immediately after application, and no adverse skin reactions were observed during the study. The product is reported to be suitable for all skin types, with its lightweight texture allowing users to adjust coverage from a sheer wash to more saturated color. It may be suitable for patients who want multifunctional color cosmetics that incorporate barrier-supportive or conditioning ingredients to prevent skin irritation.

“Every ingredient was selected to support both performance and comfort. The formula creates a smooth, cushiony texture that blends effortlessly while helping lips and cheeks feel comfortable, not dry or heavy. Instead of choosing between skin care-inspired comfort and high-performance makeup, Double Kiss Bento delivers both, making it a product patients will actually want to wear every day. By bringing together makeup performance with skin-loving comfort, we're creating products that seamlessly fit into modern beauty routines.” - Dino Ha, founder and CEO of Memebox (MBX), said to Dermatology Times.

References

1. Gold MH, Goldman MP, Biron J. Efficacy of novel skin cream containing mixture of human growth factors and cytokines for skin rejuvenation. J Drugs Dermatol. 2007;6(2):197-201.

2. Kilmer S, Shamban AT, Callender VD, Jalian HR, Karnik J. Clinical Evaluation of the Effectiveness and Safety of an In-Office Scalp Stimulating Treatment and a Take-HomeScalp Health Product. HydraFacial LLC. 2019.

3. Del Rosso JQ, Bhatia N. Status Report on Topical Hypochlorous Acid: Clinical Relevance of Specific Formulations, Potential Modes of Action, and Study Outcomes. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2018;11(11):36-39.

4. Lisante TA, Green B, Hubert K, et al. A Novel Cosmetic Anti-inflammatory Peptide With Firming and Lifting Benefits: The Potential for Adjunctive Care for Skin Laxity Associated With Weight Loss. Dermatol Surg. 2026;52(6S):S16-S22. doi:10.1097/DSS.0000000000005181.

5. Ingredients. LUMENE. Accessed August 27, 2026. https://us.lumene.com/pages/ingredients?country=US

6. Rebuild Hollow Undereyes by 129%* with Smart Eye Density. News release. PR Newswire. Published August 3, 2026. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/rebuild-hollow-undereyes-by-129-with-smart-eye-density-302837026.html

7. From Flare to Full-Cycle Care: Triple Paste® Helps Break the Eczema Loop with New Dual-Action Skin Barrier Eczema Care System. Press release. PR Newswire. Published July 8, 2026. Accessed August 27, 2026. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/from-flare-to-full-cycle-care-triple-paste-helps-break-the-eczema-loop-with-new-dual-action-skin-barrier-eczema-care-system-302820090.html?tc=eml_cleartime

8. Letsiou S, Karamaouna A, Ganopoulos I, et al. The pleiotropic effects of Prunus avium L. extract against oxidative stress on human fibroblasts. An in vitro approach. Mol Biol Rep. 2021;48(5):4441-4448. doi:10.1007/s11033-021-06464-0