The Aesthetic Edge: May 2026

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

Sheer Sensitive Collection | Banana Boat

The Banana Boat Sheer Sensitive line was developed to address sunscreen tolerability and adherence challenges in patients with sensitive skin. These broad-spectrum SPF 50 formulations are designed specifically for patients prone to irritation, including those with conditions such as atopic dermatitis (AD), rosacea, acne, contact dermatitis, and perioral dermatitis. Available in body sprays, body lotions, and face lotions, the fragrance-free and alcohol-free formulations are designed to provide lightweight, non-greasy coverage that blends sheerly across skin tones without leaving significant residue or white cast. Additionally, the formulas incorporate aloe and vitamin E to support hydration and barrier comfort during prolonged sun exposure. The products are also water-resistant and intended for daily use for all ages. According to the company, the line has undergone extensive safety and tolerability testing beyond standard SPF validation, including repeat-insult patch testing, photo-irritation and photo-allergy assessments, facial sting and burn testing, and dermatologist-evaluated cumulative irritation studies in individuals with self-perceived sensitive skin.¹

“All of these conditions result in impaired barrier and the associated sensitive skin phenotype. Thus, when recommending a sunscreen, the Banana Boat Sheer Sensitive line of products is an excellent choice because of its moisturizing properties and variety of formulations to customize to meet the needs of the sensitive skin patient. The feedback that I have received from my patients is that the sunscreen is easy to apply, well-tolerated, lightweight, and effective, even for their sensitive skin. - Anthony Gaspari, MD, board-certified dermatologist at Beebe Center for Dermatology & Dermatologic Surgery in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, and consultant to Banana Boat, told Dermatology Times.

CBD Therapeutic Cream 2% | Phoilex

This barrier-supporting, anti-inflammatory topical was designed for patients seeking non-steroidal management options for inflammatory skin disease. The formulation centers on a standardized 2% cannabidiol (CBD) concentration, with the product leveraging CBD’s interaction with the cutaneous endocannabinoid system to help regulate inflammation, pruritus, and skin homeostasis. The product may be particularly relevant for patients with mild to moderate AD, irritant or contact dermatitis, and chronic xerosis-prone skin, especially in maintenance settings, as part of steroid-sparing strategies, and/or as a non-prescription therapy between flares. In a prospective study, 2% topical cannabidiol preparation was associated with improvements in AD severity, including reductions in erythema and pruritus, with no significant adverse effects reported.² Unlike many consumer-facing CBD skincare products that include cannabinoids at cosmetic-level concentrations, Phoilex positions itself within a more clinically aligned dermocosmetic space, bridging medical-grade skin care with evidence-based adjunctive therapy

“From a practical standpoint, this fits nicely into a step-down or adjunctive strategy—for example, following short courses of topical corticosteroids or alongside moisturization regimens. Tolerability appears favorable, and given the low systemic absorption of topical CBD, it offers a relatively low-risk option for chronic use. As always, positioning is key—this isn’t a replacement for first-line therapies in moderate-to-severe disease, but it’s a useful addition to the toolkit.” - John Papastergiou, BScPhm, PhD, RPh, Phoilex advisory board member and assistant professor at the Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto School of Pharmacy, and University of Waterloo, said to Dermatology Times

Scalp Stimulating Combo System | KeraFactor

KeraFactor’s supportive scalp-care regimen includes the Scalp Stimulating Shampoo & Conditioner system alongside the leave-on Scalp Stimulating Solution, all formulated for long-term maintenance and compatibility with hair restoration procedures. Central to the platform is the proprietary KeraFactor Peptide Complex, which combines bioengineered biomimetic peptides, growth-factor-inspired proteins, copper tripeptide-1, niacinamide, caffeine, arginine, antioxidants, and conditioning agents. The sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner were designed to support scalp health and cosmetic hair quality without disrupting color-treated, chemically processed, textured, or sensitive hair. The lightweight leave-on solution incorporates biomimetic peptides and proprietary nanoliposome technology intended to support topical delivery, scalp hydration, circulation, and the appearance of fuller hair over time. KeraFactor is positioned as an adjunctive option for patients undergoing therapies such as minoxidil, finasteride, PRP, microneedling, laser/light-based treatments, and hair transplantation. Internal evaluations and observational use have reportedly demonstrated improvements in perceived scalp hydration, texture, shedding appearance, and overall cosmetic fullness with consistent use.³

“KeraFactor reflects the broader shift toward scalp optimization and supportive maintenance within modern hair restoration practices. The formulas were developed with long-term use in mind, emphasizing lightweight textures, ease of use, and compatibility with existing regimens to support long-term consistency between office visits. As clinicians continue moving toward multimodal treatment strategies, KeraFactor is intended to function as a complementary system that integrates alongside procedural, regenerative, and pharmaceutical approaches while supporting ongoing scalp maintenance and cosmetic hair quality.” - Lauren Bartholomeusz, Chief Commercial Officer of KeraFactor, said to Dermatology Times

Growth Factor Facial Mask | FACTORFIVE

This bio-cellulose single-use sheet mask was formulated with growth factors derived from human adipose stem cells, ethically sourced from lipoaspirate of healthy adult donors (ages 18–24) and cultured in-house using a patent-pending Dynamic Cultured Media process. Aloe, green tea, and hemp seed oil support skin hydration and comfort, promoting positive tolerability in patients. In a Human Repeat Insult Patch Test, the mask was shown to be non-irritating and non-sensitizing in 107 participants who completed the test. In an internal product trial using VISIA imaging at baseline, and at 4, 6, and 8 weeks, 89% of patients showed a visible reduction in the appearance of redness.⁴ It’s perfect for post-treatment skin and is free from parabens, mineral oil, sulfate detergents, and phthalates. It’s also 100% compostable, perfect for environmentally conscious patients.

“I was especially impressed by the FACTORFIVE Growth Factor Facial Mask after their Zero Downtime Peel as it helped calm, hydrate, and restore my skin while enhancing that healthy post-treatment glow.” — Lanna Cheuck, DO, FACS, board-certified urologic surgeon and medical director of LC Medical Aesthetics in New York, New York, said to Dermatology Times.

JuveXO Skin | Exora

JuveXO represents a growing category of exosome-based topical skin care positioned as a non-invasive adjunct to aesthetic and regenerative procedures. Central to the platform is ExoCM, a proprietary secretome matrix derived from human umbilical cord lining stem cells (ULSCs), designed to deliver exosomes and bioactive factors intended to support skin recovery, hydration, and visible rejuvenation. Unlike many exosome products marketed primarily around exosome count, the formulation emphasizes the broader biologically derived secretome, including collagen types I and III, high molecular weight hyaluronic acid, glutathione, beta-defensins, and growth-factor-associated proteins.⁵ Internal and observational studies cited by the company suggest potential benefits related to collagen support, inflammatory recovery, and cosmetic hair quality. Furthermore, in vitro fibroblast data demonstrated dose-dependent increases in collagen I and elastin production, while a porcine skin model evaluating use after microneedling and radiofrequency showed faster inflammatory resolution and favorable modulation of wound-healing markers. A separate sensitivity study involving 107 patients reported no adverse reactions following repeated application.

"Exora is not built on borrowed science. It is built from the ground up, through years of research, clinical insight, and a commitment to transparency. What we're introducing is not a trend, it's a long-term platform for the future of regenerative beauty." - Brian Pla, founder and president of Exora and the Gentera Center for Precision Medicine, told Dermatology Times

GeneXC Firming Eye Gel | iS Clinical

GeneXC’s new eye gel is positioned as a dual-action periocular treatment designed to provide both immediate cosmetic improvement and longer-term support for visible signs of aging around the eye area. The formulation produces a visible reduction in wrinkle appearance within 2 to 5 minutes of application, while continued use over 4 to 8 weeks is intended to improve texture, uneven tone, and overall skin appearance. It combines the company’s proprietary technology with 2 forms of vitamin C, alongside a blend of hyaluronic acids, collagen-supporting peptides, and bio-fermented actives.⁶ Together, these ingredients support hydration, antioxidant defense, barrier function, and visible brightening in the thin periocular skin, especially with the cooling applicator tip and controlled-dose packaging. According to the company, early before-and-after imaging demonstrates short-term improvements in wrinkle appearance and skin texture immediately following application. Designed for all skin types, the product may be particularly relevant for patients with environmentally induced periocular aging, including changes associated with UV exposure, pollution, and outdoor activity.

“Its immediate effects in reducing the visible appearance in the look of wrinkles and crepiness happens within 2-5 minutes, unlike many other products. Only a small amount is needed for both visible and long-term results.” - Charlene DeHaven, MD, FACEP, board-certified internal medicine physician and clinical director of iS Clinical, said to Dermatology Times.

Replenishing Night Cream Tx | SUM OF ALL

This night cream was specifically developed to address the physiologic skin changes associated with peri- to post-menopause, particularly the effects of estrogen decline on barrier function, hydration balance, recovery capacity, and tolerance to active ingredients. The fragrance-free formula combines encapsulated retinol, marine polysaccharides, and the company’s proprietary AP² Longevity Platform, which incorporates phytoestrogens, adaptogens, and peptides aimed at supporting hydration, texture, and visible skin resilience.⁷ The controlled retinol delivery is paired with barrier-supportive technologies to improve tolerability in patients with reactive or fluctuating skin behavior. According to independent ICH-GCP-certified clinical testing in women aged 40 to 65 years, 28 days of nightly use resulted in improvements in hydration, wrinkle appearance, and spot area, with reported high tolerability across participants. In vivo Confocal Raman Spectroscopy testing additionally demonstrated measurable retinol absorption within 1 hour of application.

"“At SUM OF ALL, we believe peri-to-post menopausal skin requires a more targeted approach than the beauty industry has traditionally offered. Estrogen decline can alter barrier responsiveness, hydration regulation, recovery capacity, and tolerance to aggressive actives, yet many products still treat hormonally changing skin as simply dry or sensitive skin. Replenishing Night Cream Tx was developed as a multi-mechanism overnight treatment system designed to deliver visible renewal while supporting skin resilience and function through hormonal change. Beauty Without Pause means helping skin continue to perform, adapt, and thrive through every stage.” - Stacey Berger, founder of SUM OF ALL, said to Dermatology Times

Advanced Oil Control Trio | Jupiter

As the scalp-care category continues to evolve beyond traditional medicated shampoos, this dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis system from Jupiter reflects that shift through a 3-step regimen consisting of the Balancing Shampoo, Nourishing Conditioner, and Restoring Scalp Serum, now available at Advanced Dermatology locations across the country. The shampoo is formulated with 1% zinc pyrithione, the maximum OTC concentration permitted under the FDA monograph for dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis, targeting Malassezia proliferation while incorporating supportive ingredients such as squalane, pea peptides, salicylic and glycolic acids, and lactobacillus ferment. The sulfate-free, color-safe base was designed to address common adherence barriers associated with medicated shampoos, including dryness, odor, and concerns about color fading or hair fragility. Supporting clinical and consumer data demonstrated measurable reductions in flaking and itching, with no reported irritation in an 8-week consumer study. Additional TRI/Princeton testing suggested reduced hair breakage following repeated grooming cycles.⁸ The conditioner formula incorporates colloidal oat extract, bio-peptides, vitamins B and E, glycerin, panthenol, botanical oils, and piroctone olamine to help restore moisture, support the scalp barrier, and reduce the dryness and tightness patients frequently associate with medicated regimens. Additionally, the leave-on scalp serum contains 0.125% zinc pyrithione alongside niacinamide, aloe vera, panthenol, bio-peptides, and MCT oil, particularly useful for patients with textured hair, braids, weaves, extensions, or low-frequency wash routines, where daily or near-daily shampooing is impractical. Clinicians can email [email protected] to learn more.

“The dandruff category has historically split into two camps, and neither serves the patient particularly well. On one side are the legacy medicated shampoos, which deliver clinically effective actives but in vehicles that are drying, sulfate-heavy, harshly scented, and often incompatible with color-treated or chemically processed hair. On the other side are prestige hair-care brands that offer beautiful sensorials and color safety but address the scalp only superficially, if at all. Patients with dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis end up choosing between treating the condition and protecting the hair they have invested in, and most of them eventually stop treating. Jupiter is built specifically to remove that tradeoff.” - Ross Goodhard, founder of Jupitersaid to Dermatology Times.

References

1. Sun 101. Banana Boat. Accessed May 28, 2026. https://www.bananaboat.com/pages/sun-101

2. Hakim S, Goel S, John Papastergiou, Goldberg DJ. Improvement in atopic dermatitis using a novel topical 2% cannabidiol (CBD) application. Dermatol Rep. 2025;6(2). doi:10.1002/der2.70024

3. Taub A, Calderhead RG, Li J. Fractional Thulium Laser Combined with a Topical Growth Factor Serum Increases Hair Density and Thickness in Male and Female Androgenic Alopecia: A Pilot Study. Hair Transplant Forum International. March/April 2022. https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/5vjg7k4ctnkq2kmfiuf7m/KeraFactor-Peer-Reviewed-Clinical-Study.pdf?rlkey=p2tk4aig26y8x2uml6gjce6p0&st=pq6d8lqp&dl=0

4. BioScreen Clinical Services, Studies 22-504A & 22-505A

5. Jan AT, Rahman S, Khan S, Tasduq SA, Choi I. Biology, Pathophysiological Role, and Clinical Implications of Exosomes: A Critical Appraisal. Cells. 2019 Jan 29;8(2):99. doi: 10.3390/cells8020099. PMID: 30699987; PMCID: PMC6406279.

6. GeneXC Technology. iS Clinical. Accessed May 28, 2026. https://www.isclinical.com/products/genexc-firming-eye-gel?srsltid=AfmBOop7ZM7aYmOOu2Bh-oGvRWHBq-ZtXYh1w08yKILmpf1y6blqIocK

7. AP² Longevity Platform. SUM OF ALL. Accessed May 28, 2026. https://sumofall.com/pages/ap-complex

8. Science. Jupiter. Accessed May 28, 2026. https://hellojupiter.com/pages/science-page