The Aesthetic Edge: September 2026

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

Precision Acne Care Set | Hypothesis

Hypothesis’ new acne care line uses a precision-enzyme approach designed to selectively target Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes), rather than broadly suppressing skin bacteria. Its patented CUT-02 enzyme is formulated to target C. acnes while preserving beneficial members of the skin microbiome. While the 3-step simplified routine highlights the daily cleanser, precision serum, and gel cream, the technology is also available in a clarifying spray and precision microdart blemish patches. In laboratory testing, CUT-02 eliminated 99.9% of C. acnes within 1 hour without affecting beneficial skin bacteria. In an 8-week clinical study of 32 adults with mild to severe acne using a 3-step routine, 97% reported fewer breakouts, with an 81% average reduction in inflammatory pimples and a 65% reduction in total pimple count. Ninety-five percent described the routine as non-irritating after 8 weeks. A separate study of 32 adults found that, after a single 8-hour application, 97% said the microdart patch helped flatten a pimple, and 94% reported reduced redness.¹ The products may be of interest for patients seeking non-antibiotic acne care, including those concerned about irritation or photosensitivity associated with conventional therapies. All formulations are hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, and suitable for sensitive skin.

“As a dermatologist, I’m always looking for options that actually work without the irritation and microbiome disruption that come with some traditional acne treatments. Hypothesis’s CUT-02 enzyme technology takes a more intelligent approach. It selectively targets the C.acnes bacteria that cause acne while preserving the ones that protect your skin. The clinical results speak for themselves, on par with prescription treatments, and the tolerability profile is something I rarely see with actives this effective!” - Omer Ibrahim, MD, MBA, board-certified dermatologist, medical director at KGL/Dermico, and founder/CEO of Salmalita Cosmetics, told Dermatology Times

Gotu Kola + Fruit Exosome Duo | Naturopathica

The brand’s Gotu Kola + Fruit Exosome Collection combines a Rejuvenating Essence and Gel Moisturizer with plant-derived extracellular vesicle technology and a hydrating ingredient complex. The formulas feature exosomes derived from Alpine apple, Mediterranean tangerine and Sicilian papaya, alongside Centella asiatica (gotu kola), previously recognized for its demonstrated improvements in wrinkle depth, hydration, pore measures, surface roughness and dermal density in other formulations.² The products also feature tremella mushroom and multiple molecular weights of hyaluronic acid, beta-glucan, glycerin, aloe vera, and panthenol. The lightweight, cooling formulations are designed for daily use across skin types, including patients with dehydration, early signs of photoaging, or combination/oil-prone skin that may not tolerate heavier moisturizers. In an independent 4-week clinical study supplied by the manufacturer, instrumental measurements and image analysis found more than a 1.5-fold increase in skin hydration immediately after use, along with improvements in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and skin elasticity. Consumer-perception results from the same 4-week study found that 100% of patients felt their skin was instantly hydrated, refreshed, more supple, and firmer. 

“The collection approaches exosome technology through Naturopathica's established botanical formulation philosophy. Rather than relying exclusively on the benefits of the exosome technology, the formulas also include a long list of botanically-backed, skin strengthening ingredients that address hydration and barrier support. This makes the collection less about relying on a single emerging technology and more about pairing that technology with ingredients that help deliver skin that looks and functions better.” - Elizabeth Harvey, LE, LMT, director of education at Naturopathica, said to Dermatology Times

Ultra Sensitive Cream | Cellcosmet

This daily cellular cream was designed for sensitive and sensitized skin, supporting the skin’s physical, biological, and chemical defense systems. Rather than simply soothing visible irritation, the formula takes a holistic approach to skin resilience, helping reinforce the skin barrier, limit moisture loss, support microbiome balance, and defend against oxidative stress. It combines Cellcosmet’s proprietary CytoPep complex with prebiotics, ceramides and microalgae peptides, alongside soothing and hydrating ingredients. In independent instrumental clinical testing of 33 volunteers, twice-daily use for 28 days resulted in an 11% increase in hydration, 17% reduction in TEWL, 6.5% reduction in visible redness, improved elasticity and firmness, and reduced inflammatory biomarkers associated with low-grade inflammation.³ The fragrance-free formula is designed for patients with reactive skin and those who may have periods of increased sensitivity, including appropriate post-procedure care.

“Sensitive skin is often treated as a surface-level concern, but visible irritation can be a sign that the skin barrier itself has been compromised. With Ultra Sensitive, our focus was on addressing the barrier more holistically rather than simply calming the visible signs of sensitivity. By reinforcing barrier integrity, limiting moisture loss and supporting microbiome balance, we can help sensitized skin become stronger and more resilient over time.” - Jérémie Soeur, PhD, chief science officer at Cellcosmet, said in a press release.

CYTOGEN Masque | Bionassay

Bionassay’s CYTOGEN Masque is positioned as a post-procedure recovery adjunct rather than a conventional hydrating sheet mask. The biocellulose matrix conforms closely to the skin and delivers a secretome-containing formula with barrier-supportive ingredients, with the goal of providing cooling, hydration, and signaling support during the early recovery period after procedures that cause controlled inflammation or temporary barrier disruption. Product-specific evidence includes an in vitro HaCaT keratinocyte scratch assay in which CYTOGEN extract increased gap closure versus untreated controls. At 0.3 mg/mL, gap closure was 342% greater at 24 hours and 314% greater at 32 hours, with no cytotoxicity observed at concentrations up to 1.5 mg/mL.⁴ QuantifiCare 3D imaging and clinical photography supplied by the manufacturer have also demonstrated short-term changes in redness and surface irritation, with a rapid calming effect after a 15-minute application. The mask may be considered after microneedling, RF microneedling, selected fractional laser, IPL, and other procedures associated with transient erythema and heat. It is particularly useful for patients who are redness-prone, heat-sensitive, dehydrated, or concerned about procedural downtime, because the immediate benefit is often something they can both see and feel during the treatment visit.

“What makes CYTOGEN interesting clinically is that it addresses a part of aesthetic treatment that is often underestimated: the quality of recovery and the opportunity to deliver growth factors in that critical post procedure time. We intentionally create controlled punctures into the skin and subsequent inflammation with procedures such as microneedling and fractional laser, but we still want to restore barrier function efficiently and keep patients comfortable. CYTOGEN gives us a practical way to combine immediate cooling and hydration with a regenerative signaling approach, and patients can often see and feel the calming effect within the treatment visit.” - Kian Karimi, MD, FACS, medical director and founder at Dr. Kian Nasal & Facial Plastic Surgery & Rejuva Medical Aesthetics in Los Angeles, California, told Dermatology Times

Skin Revitalizing Regimen | TiZO

The TiZO Skin Revitalizing Regimen combines 5 Photoceutical products—Gel Cleanser, Complexion Brightener, Daily Moisture, PM Restore and AM Replenish Lightly Tinted—in a routine intended to address photodamage, hyperpigmentation, uneven tone and visible signs of aging. The regimen was evaluated in a 12-week clinical study of 31 women aged 35 to 65 years with defined hyperpigmentation. Expert grading found that 90% of participants demonstrated improvements in skin brightness, fine lines and wrinkles, and overall appearance, while 87% showed improved softness and texture. Imaging and instrumental assessments also documented reductions in hyperpigmentation, dark-spot intensity and size, along with improvements in skin tone, firmness, elasticity and overall texture. Dark spots were significantly reduced after 6 weeks, and SIAscope assessment showed decreased melanin content at that time point. ChromaMeter measurements demonstrated a narrowing of the color difference between pigmented and nonpigmented areas over 12 weeks, while image analysis identified improvements in crow’s feet and deeper wrinkles. The regimen was reportedly well tolerated, with no adverse events among the 31 participants, including those with pre-existing redness.⁵ These findings support the use of a comprehensive regimen for patients seeking improvement in photodamage and pigmentation, particularly those concerned about irritation from corrective products. 

"Most correction routines ask patients to piece together their own ritual, a sunscreen here, a brightening serum there, each tested (if at all) on its own. TiZO took a different approach, clinically proving the Photoceutical Regimen the way patients experience it: as one seamless ritual, 5 products working in harmony. The result is a rare combination. Real, clinically verified pigmentation correction wrapped in a mineral formula gentle enough for the most sensitive skin. Providers no longer must choose between recommending visible results and a soothing, well-tolerated experience. And because the glow is backed by objective imaging, not just how it feels, it's a regimen providers can recommend with complete confidence.” - Lorraine Lampe, senior manager of product development at TiZO, said to Dermatology Times.

Futurecode Booster Damage-Correcting Longevity Serum | Dermalogica

Dermalogica’s FutureCode Booster is a topical serum designed around skin longevity, combining ingredients intended to address oxidative stress, barrier function, hydration, and visible signs of aging. Its Longevity Renew Complex contains teprenone, niacinamide and sunflower sprout extract, which the manufacturer says supports NAD⁺ levels and natural skin repair. An antioxidant blend of acetyl zingerone, rosehip oil and rosemary targets multiple types of free radicals, while tara fruit extract, red algae and soy protein provide barrier support and an immediate firming effect. Biomimetic phospholipids, saccharide isomerate and multiple molecular weights of hyaluronic acid contribute to barrier reinforcement and hydration. In an 8-week clinical study of 33 participants using the product twice daily, 100% reported that their skin looked lifted, deeply replenished, and more even-toned after 8 weeks. Clinical expert evaluations also found improvements in multiple skin attributes after 7 days, including lift and firmness.⁶ This booster serum can be applied morning and evening on its own or mixed with another serum or moisturizer, with use permitted up to 4 times daily. It may be most relevant for patients seeking a lightweight approach to visible photodamage, loss of firmness, fine lines, uneven tone, and dehydration.

“With the New FutureCode Booster, we are introducing our most advanced longevity technology to date. This breakthrough complex was developed by applying biohacking principles to skin biology – focusing on repair signaling, oxidative stress reduction, and barrier resilience. Rather than targeting a single symptom of aging, we designed this formula to work with the skin's intrinsic longevity pathways to visibly restore firmness, smoothness, and overall skin health." - Bob Bianchini, PhD, VP of research and development at Dermalogica, said in a press release.

INFINESSE Pump Matrix Milk | ALBION

ALBION’s INFINESSE Pump Matrix Milk is an emulsion designed around the brand’s “Milk-First Ritual,” in which a balancing milk is applied after cleansing and before subsequent skincare products. The formulation combines natural moisturizing factors (NMF) with oil- and water-based moisturizers intended to support moisture balance and the skin barrier. The INFINESSE collection also incorporates ALBION’s proprietary OSK9 Peptide technology and acetyl tetrapeptide-2, which are intended to support a firmer, smoother and more lifted-looking appearance. Available clinical data include a Japanese study of 23 women who used the product for 4 weeks.⁷ A separate 2-week US consumer study of 27 participants found that 93% reported tighter, less sagging-feeling skin, while 100% perceived improved skin-barrier health and brighter, more radiant skin; 96% reported a plumper, more youthful appearance. Since the company describes the texture as falling between a lotion and cream, with a lightweight, emollient finish, the product may be particularly relevant for patients with dry, dehydrated or moisture-compromised skin who prefer hydration without the heavier feel of a traditional cream.

"ALBION is celebrating its 70th anniversary this year, a milestone that reflects seven decades of dedication to skin care innovation and craftsmanship. Since its introduction, the Balancing Milk has remained at the heart of ALBION's skincare philosophy. While honoring its heritage, we have continuously invested in research and development to refine and innovate the formula over the decades. This commitment to balancing tradition with innovation has allowed us to evolve the product to meet modern skincare needs while staying true to the original vision that made it iconic.” - Kazuko Tatsumoto, Deputy General Manager at Albion, told Dermatology Times

The Overnight Eye Cream Treatment | Eighth Day

This overnight eye treatment is formulated to bring retinaldehyde to the periorbital area using RetinalXR, a proprietary extended-release, microencapsulated delivery system. The company describes retinal as requiring 1 enzymatic conversion to retinoic acid, compared with 2 for retinol, and says its delivery system provides 250% greater potency than standard retinol. The formula also contains acetyl tetrapeptide-5, bioidentical extracellular vesicles derived from Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, and Peptide-rich Plasma, a proprietary blend of 24 peptides, amino acids and growth factors. In a 4-week study, Cutometer measurements in 32 patients showed a 46% improvement in periorbital skin firmness. Among 33 participants completing consumer assessments, 97% reported smoother-looking skin, 88% perceived greater lift and firmness, and 85% reported tighter-looking skin and reduced appearance of crow’s feet. Dark-circle brightness and overall radiance were also favorably rated. Tolerability was notable: 100% reported no irritation or flaking and 97% reported no redness during the study. The formulation may be relevant for patients with periorbital photoaging, fine lines, and pigmentary changes who want a retinoid-based approach that works for sensitive periorbital skin.

"This took four years and multiple rounds of reformulation because we wouldn't launch until we could run RetinalXR at full strength on skin this thin without inducing retinoid dermatitis. That's the standard I held myself to as a dermatologist formulator. Treating aging skin is in many ways like wound care. Aging skin is wounded skin, wounded by the sun, the environment, gravity, and the passage of time, and the periorbital skin has its own considerations, distinct from the rest of the face. Clinically, the regimen is simple: applied at night, when photosensitivity is not a factor and skin's reparative processes are left alone to do its work.” - Antony Nakhla, DO, double board certified dermatologist and founder of Eighth Day, said to Dermatology Times

References

1. Liu, O. Acne and the Microbiome: Why Precision Is the Future of Acne Care. Hypothesis. https://hypothesis.bio/blogs/news/acne-and-the-microbiome-why-precision-is-the-future-of-acne-care?srsltid=AfmBOoq_52tz_kSewdmNMsdMoksNfjuy3X31r2uMgThP2eJuoOZWEtOp

2. Park HS, Shin S. Clinical Efficacy and Safety Evaluation of a Centella asiatica (CICA)-Derived Extracellular Vesicle Formulation for Anti-Aging Skincare. Cosmetics. 2025; 12(4):135. doi:10.3390/cosmetics12040135

3. Cellcosmet Introduces Ultra Sensitive: Advanced Skin Barrier Protection for Sensitized Skin. News release. Globe Newswire. Published September 1, 2026. Accessed September 25, 2026. https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2026/09/01/3354269/0/en/cellcosmet-introduces-ultra-sensitive-advanced-skin-barrier-protection-for-sensitized-skin.html

4. CYTOGEN Masque Clinical Results: HaCaT Keratinocyte Scratch Assay and QuantifiCare 3D Imaging. Bionassay. https://bionassay.com/pages/cytogen-results

5. Schwartz, S. A Twelve-Week Clinical Trial to Assess the Efficacy of a Topical Product Regimen on Skin Pigmentation. International Research Services. https://tizoskin.com/pages/revitalizing-skin-regimen-clinical-study

6. biohack skin's longevity with futurecode booster. News release. PR Newswire. Published May 15, 2026. Accessed September 25, 2026. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/biohack-skins-longevity-with-futurecode-booster-302772905.html

7. ALBION INFINESSEPUMP MATRIX MILK: Evidence＆Usage Guidelines. Overseas ALBION Business Department. July 2026

8. The Science. Eighth Day. Accessed September 25, 2026. https://eighthdayskin.com/pages/the-science