The Aesthetic Edge: July 2026

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

XERF® | Cynosure Lutronic

XERF is a noninvasive monopolar radiofrequency (RF) system designed to address mild to moderate skin laxity through controlled dermal heating and collagen remodeling. The platform distinguishes itself as the first multifrequency monopolar RF device, combining 6.78 MHz and 2 MHz energy in a single treatment to target multiple tissue depths. Studies evaluating dual-frequency monopolar RF have reported favorable histologic changes and improvements in facial laxity and photoaging, while preclinical investigations have demonstrated controlled thermal remodeling of the dermis and subcutaneous tissues.¹ The device also incorporates real-time impedance monitoring, integrated epidermal cooling, and continuous temperature regulation via Wave Fit pulse technology, Advanced Integrated Cryogen Delivery, and the Spider Tip. These features promote consistent energy delivery and improve patient comfort, eliminating the need for topical anesthetic in many cases. According to Cynosure Lutronic, it’s a great pick for patients seeking noninvasive management of early to moderate facial laxity or as part of a preventative aesthetic strategy, reflecting the trend toward personalized, energy-based skin rejuvenation protocols that can be integrated into busy aesthetic practices with minimal recovery time.

“The demand we're seeing reflects a broader shift in aesthetics. Patients want natural-looking results, minimal downtime, and treatments that support long-term skin health. They're also more informed than ever about aesthetic technologies. What makes XERF so compelling is that it addresses all of those priorities. It allows us to personalize the treatment while maintaining patient comfort and delivering consistent results, which is why it has resonated so well with patients.” - Michelle Henry, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist, founder of Skin & Aesthetic Surgery of Manhattan, and paid consultant of Cynosure Lutronic., told Dermatology Times.

HYACYN ACTIVE Purifying Mist | Hydrinity

Hydrinity’s cult-favorite stabilized hypochlorous acid (HOCl) spray was developed to support skin recovery, barrier function, and overall skin health in both post-procedure and daily skin care settings. As interest in hypochlorous acid continues to grow within dermatology, this microbiome-friendly, non-comedogenic formulation soothes stressed skin, reduces visible erythema, and supports a healthy skin environment without disrupting barrier integrity. The alcohol-free, fragrance-free, preservative-free mist is gentle enough for frequent use across all skin types, including sensitive and recently treated skin. In addition to its role in post-procedure care, the mist is intended to complement daily skin care routines by helping balance skin pH prior to the application of topical serums and other treatment products. Clinical evidence supports its role in wound care, scar management, and post-procedural recovery, especially laser resurfacing, microneedling, chemical peels, and other aesthetic treatments that temporarily compromise the skin barrier.² Compared to other HOCI sprays, HYACYN ACTIVE is manufactured to pharmaceutical-grade standards using the company’s proprietary technology designed to help preserve efficacy over time. As of this month, it has surpassed 1 million bottles sold worldwide and is celebrating the milestone with a limited-edition Rose Gold version.

“HYACYN ACTIVE delivers stabilized hypochlorous acid in a formulation designed to support skin health by helping calm visible redness, reinforce the skin barrier, and promote an optimal environment for recovery. It's a product I recommend because it complements both aesthetic procedures and everyday skin care.” - Michael Gold, MD, founder and medical director of Gold Skin Care Center in Nashville, Tennessee, said to Dermatology Times

Daily Calm Collection | Clinique

Clinique has expanded its sensitive skin portfolio with the Daily Calm collection, a line of skin care and color cosmetics developed to address both the physical manifestations and psychosocial burden of sensitive skin. The collection includes a cleanser, soothing repair cream, foundation balm, and lip and cheek color products designed to support barrier function while allowing patients to comfortably incorporate makeup into their daily routines, even during periods of skin reactivity. Central to the formulations is Uniflavon, a proprietary blend of bamboo leaf and Scutellaria baicalensis (skullcap) root extracts. Rich in flavonoids, the ingredient was selected based on research suggesting its ability to modulate inflammatory pathways by inhibiting key enzymes associated with skin irritation. The formulations aim to calm visible redness and discomfort while supporting long-term barrier health. Unlike many sensitive skin product evaluations that rely on self-reported skin sensitivity, Clinique used the validated Burden of Sensitive Skin (BoSS) questionnaire to enroll participants with clinically characterized sensitive skin for efficacy and tolerability testing. Company survey data also underscored the broader impact of sensitive skin on quality of life, with many respondents reporting that skin concerns influenced daily routines, emotional well-being, and makeup use.³

“We can't underestimate the emotional impact a skin concern like this can have on a patient, and how meaningful and transformational it can be when there is an accessible solution to address the problem.” - Ida Wong, MBA, vice president of Global Product Development at Clinque, said in an interview with Dermatology Times

REVERSE Regimen | Rodan + Fields

This multimodal skin care system was created to address photodamage, uneven skin tone, and hyperpigmentation through a coordinated regimen of evidence-based topical ingredients. Rather than relying on a single brightening agent, the regimen combines glycolic, lactic, and salicylic acids to promote exfoliation, vitamin C, niacinamide, and hexylresorcinol to target dyschromia, retinol to accelerate epidermal turnover, and a broad-spectrum mineral SPF 50 to help prevent UV-induced pigmentation recurrence. Together, these ingredients address multiple pathways involved in pigment formation while also improving skin texture and radiance. Clinical and consumer data from an 8-week study reported improvements in several measures of skin appearance, with participants noting reduced visible dark patches and discoloration (100%), smoother-feeling skin (100%), more even skin tone (97%), and increased radiance (94%).⁴ The system may be appropriate for patients with mild to moderate sun damage, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, solar lentigines, or dullness who are seeking a comprehensive, nonprescription daily routine. 

“Patient education is critical for optimizing outcomes with the Reverse Regimen. Clinicians should emphasize that improvements in hyperpigmentation occur gradually, with visible changes typically requiring several weeks of consistent use. Because the regimen contains multiple active ingredients, including exfoliating acids and retinol, patients may experience transient dryness or irritation during initiation, making gradual introduction and appropriate moisturization important. The regimen should also be viewed as complementary to in-office procedures such as chemical peels or laser treatments, rather than a replacement for them. Selecting patients with realistic expectations and reinforcing daily sunscreen use will maximize both efficacy and long-term maintenance of results.” - Hadley C. King, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist at Dr Hadley King Dermatology in New York, New York, said to Dermatology Times.

Skin Renew Elixir | Biosil

This is an oral supplement formulated to support skin health by promoting the body's natural production of collagen, elastin, and keratin. Unlike conventional collagen supplements that provide exogenous collagen peptides, the product features the patented choline-stabilized orthosilicic acid (ch-OSA) complex, which is intended to stimulate endogenous synthesis of structural proteins while helping protect them from degradation. The formulation also includes zinc, a nutrient with established roles in epidermal barrier function, hydration, sebum regulation, and overall skin homeostasis. Clinical evidence supporting ch-OSA includes a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of women aged 40 to 65 years with photodamaged skin, in which 20 weeks of supplementation resulted in significantly greater improvements in skin elasticity and reductions in fine lines and wrinkles compared with placebo.⁵ Additional studies have reported improvements in skin hydration and quality, as well as benefits for hair and nail health. This adjunctive supplement may be appropriate for adults with photoaged skin, declining elasticity, fine lines, dryness, or dullness who are interested in supporting skin health from within, alongside other treatments.

"Collagen is the body's most abundant structural protein, accounting for approximately 5 to 7% of total body weight. Far from being static, collagen is continuously remodeled throughout life. Existing collagen fibers are constantly degraded and replaced with newly synthesized collagen as part of normal tissue maintenance and repair. Maintaining the integrity of the body's collagen matrixes therefore depends on achieving the proper balance between collagen breakdown and new collagen production. Biosil Skin Elixir is uniquely positioned to support both sides of this equation...by supporting healthy collagen turnover, Biosil Skin Elixir helps maintain connective tissue strength, elasticity, and overall skin health.” - Richard Passwater, Jr., medical educational director with Bio Minerals NV, the Belgian manufacturer of BioSil, told Dermatology Times

Reactivation Serum | Sherak 

Dubbed as the brand’s “Chemistry Hero,” Sherak’s Reactivation Serum is a peptide-based topical formulated specifically for women aged 40 years and older, targeting the biologic changes in skin associated with perimenopause and menopause. Rather than relying on a single active ingredient, the serum combines a proprietary Pentapeptide Matrix with niacinamide, adenosine triphosphate (ATP), amino acids, hyaluronic acid, stabilized vitamin C, and botanical flavonoids to address multiple pathways involved in age-related skin changes. It incorporates 5 biomimetic peptides with distinct targets, including skin firmness, dermal-epidermal junction support, collagen renewal signaling, facial contour, and the appearance of expression lines. Published in vitro and in vivo data on the individual peptide ingredients have demonstrated improvements in wrinkle appearance, elasticity, firmness, hydration, and pore size.⁶ The serum is intended for patients across all Fitzpatrick skin types experiencing early to moderate laxity, diminished jawline definition, enlarged pores, and textural changes associated with midlife skin biology. It may also serve as a complementary at-home product between aesthetic procedures, including neuromodulator and filler treatments, or during post-procedure recovery. The inclusion of oat beta-glucan in the base formulation is intended to enhance tolerability for sensitive or reactive skin, making the product a potential option for patients who have difficulty tolerating more irritating topical regimens like retinoids.

“This new peptide-focused skin care line is truly impressive and fits a need in skincare for women over 40. Sherak is thoughtfully formulated, beautiful to use, and leaves skin looking brighter, smoother, and more refreshed. We are excited to see continued results.” Shannon O’Brien, medical aesthetician at Claytor Noone Plastic Surgery in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, said to Dermatology Times.

Redness Control Collection | Riversol

This line from Riversol was developed by board-certified dermatologist Jason Rivers, MD, FRCPC, for patients with sensitive, redness-prone, and reactive skin. The Redness Control Trio provides a complete 3-step routine (cleanse, treat, and moisturize) while the Redness Calming Mask offers targeted calming support when skin feels irritated or visibly flushed. Powered by Hinokitiol, a naturally derived antioxidant from the Pacific Red Cedar tree, the formulas help visibly reduce redness, support the skin barrier, and improve skin comfort.⁷ Each product is pH-balanced for sensitive skin and formulated without added fragrance, dyes, sulphates, parabens, or phthalates to help minimize unnecessary irritation. The routine is ideal for patients with rosacea-prone, reactive, or compromised skin who need effective daily care they can tolerate. It’s also perfect for patients with a compromised skin barrier who cannot tolerate harsher skin care products or active ingredients.

"Redness-prone skin requires a careful balance of efficacy and tolerance. These formulas were developed to support the skin barrier, reduce visible redness, and avoid unnecessary irritants so patients can maintain a consistent routine without provoking further reactivity.” - Jason Rivers, MD, FRCPC, board-certified dermatologist and medical director at Pacific Derm in Vancouver, Canada and founder of Riversol, said to Dermatology Times

ELASTEN | QUIRIS Healthcare

Developed in Germany, this oral collagen supplement was designed to support skin health from within, reflecting growing interest in nutricosmetics as an adjunct to topical skincare and in-office aesthetic procedures. The once-daily liquid formulation contains 2.5 g of patented hydrolyzed short-chain collagen peptides as part of its proprietary [HC] collagen complex, along with acerola fruit extract, vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, and biotin. According to the brand, the collagen peptides are engineered to closely resemble human type I collagen and are enzymatically hydrolyzed into bioavailable peptide fragments intended to support dermal collagen structure. Clinical evidence supporting the formulation includes a randomized, placebo-controlled, triple-blind trial involving 60 healthy women who consumed the supplement daily for 12 weeks. Using confocal laser scanning microscopy, investigators observed significant improvements in facial collagen structure compared with placebo, along with a strong safety profile. Participants also reported subjective improvements in skin elasticity, wrinkle appearance, and overall skin smoothness across multiple body sites.⁸ It’s safe for patients of all skin types looking to support skin quality as part of a comprehensive regimen and is recommended for those 25 and older. 

“Healthy skin is supported by a combination of topical skincare, in-office procedures, lifestyle habits, and, increasingly, evidence-based nutritional support. While collagen supplementation isn't a replacement for proven topical ingredients or procedural treatments, clinically studied formulations like ELASTEN can be a valuable addition to a comprehensive skin health regimen. What differentiates ELASTEN is its research-backed collagen peptide formulation and clinical data demonstrating improvements in skin elasticity and dermal structure, making it a compelling option for patients looking to support skin quality from within.” - Dendy Engelman, MD, FACMS, FASDS, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist at the Shafer Clinic in New York Citysaid to Dermatology Times.

Ultra™ | Cynosure Lutronic

This nonablative 1927 nm fractional thulium laser system is indicated for common concerns including actinic keratoses, age spots, freckles, sunspots, pigmented lesions, and uneven skin tone, while also stimulating superficial collagen remodeling to improve overall skin quality. According to the company, the technology creates controlled fractional microchannels within the epidermis and superficial dermis, promoting skin renewal while enhancing the penetration of topical formulations. It incorporates a 200-µm microbeam, magnetic IntelliTrak roller, and Controlled Chaos Technology for consistent energy delivery and uniform treatment coverage. Treatment sessions typically require 10 to 20 minutes and can be performed year-round across a range of skin types, with minimal downtime. According to a prospective study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, treatment with 1927 nm fractional thulium lasers achieved an 86.6% reduction in facial actinic keratoses at 6 months, with additional studies demonstrating improvements in skin rejuvenation and characterizing the laser's tissue interactions and safety profile.9 Ultra can also be incorporated into multimodal treatment plans alongside radiofrequency microneedling or pigment-targeting lasers with patients of all ages looking for preventative maintenance or cumulative sun damage repair.

“Cynosure Lutronic Ultra laser is my favorite addition to my practice. It allows me to treat multiple areas quickly, effectively, and with very low consumable expense. My patients are loving the comfortable treatments and impressive results with very little downtime.” – Joel Cohen, MD, FAAD, FACMS, founder and director of About Skin Dermatology in Greenwood Village, Colorado, and paid consultant of Cynosure Lutronic, said to Dermatology Times

References

1. Weiss RA, Wang J, DiBernardo B, Bhatia AC. Clinical Outcomes Following Dual-Frequency Noninvasive Monopolar Radiofrequency Treatment for Facial Laxity and Lower Face Lifting: A Prospective Multicenter Study. Cureus. 2026;18(3):e104546. Published 2026 Mar 2. doi:10.7759/cureus.104546

2. Gold MH, Andriessen A, Bhatia AC, et al. Topical stabilized hypochlorous acid: The future gold standard for wound care and scar management in dermatologic and plastic surgery procedures. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2020;19(2):270-277. doi:10.1111/jocd.13280

3. Bosslett M, Ingrassia M, Wong I. Clinique's Daily Calm Merges Clinical Efficacy with Color Cosmetics for Sensitive Skin. Published June 16, 2026. https://www.dermatologytimes.com/view/clinique-s-daily-calm-merges-clinical-efficacy-with-color-cosmetics-for-sensitive-skin

4. 8-week U.S. clinical and consumer study using REVERSE Steps 1-3 and Mineral SPF. Rodan + Fields. Accessed July 28, 2026. https://www.rodanandfields.com/en-us/shop/reverse-regimen/p/HRVRGG0T

5. Barel A, Calomme M, Timchenko A, et al. Effect of oral intake of choline-stabilized orthosilicic acid on skin, nails and hair in women with photodamaged skin. Arch Dermatol Res. 2005;297(4):147-153. doi:10.1007/s00403-005-0584-6

6. The Peptides: Pentapeptide Matrix. Sherak. Accessed July 28, 2026. https://sherakskin.com/pages/pentapeptide-matrix

7. About. Riversol. Accessed July 28, 2026. https://www.riversol.com/pages/about

8. Laing S, Bielfeldt S, Ehrenberg C, Wilhelm KP. A Dermonutrient Containing Special Collagen Peptides Improves Skin Structure and Function: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Triple-Blind Trial Using Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy on the Cosmetic Effects and Tolerance of a Drinkable Collagen Supplement. J Med Food. 2020;23(2):147-152. doi:10.1089/jmf.2019.0197

9. Weiss ET, Brauer JA, Anolik R, et al. 1927-nm fractional resurfacing of facial actinic keratoses: a promising new therapeutic option. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2013;68(1):98-102. doi:10.1016/j.jaad.2012.05.033