Goals like eating healthier and hitting the gym typically dominate New Year’s resolutions, but don’t forget about your skin! The new year is a great time to reset your routine and consider what you really need for healthy skin – and what can get kicked to the curb.

For 2026, we’re all about a minimalist, stress-free skincare routine that gives your skin just what it needs without unnecessary extras. Streamlined, purposeful skincare is easier to stick with for the long-term and reduces the risk of irritation from multiple products and inconsistent use.

Be skin smart for 2026 and reset your routine for healthy, balanced skin. In this post, we give you top tips for simple skincare that works, whether you’re navigating skincare for the first time, combating signs of aging, or just trying to simplify your product lineup.

Skincare Doesn’t Have to Be Complex

The skincare industry can make us feel like we need all the products that do all the things. From products like toners, overnight treatments, serums, exfoliators, and emollients to ingredients like ceramides, peptides, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, vitamin E, and retinol, there is a lot to consider. 

If your daily skincare routine has started feeling like more of a chore, it’s probably time to pare it down. But don’t worry – simpler doesn’t mean less effective. Like makeup, PowerPoint presentations, and your mother-in-law’s holiday snowman collection, less is more, and using fewer products that are well-formulated for your needs is often more sustainable for your skin and your routine.

Here’s an example of a minimized skincare routine:

1. Daily Cleanser: Wash in the morning and evening with a gentle skin cleanser that works for your skin type and needs. Bonus if you double cleanse at night to ensure that you are getting rid of makeup and sunscreen with the first wash, and then deeper into the pores with the second wash!
2. Specialized Treatment: Use a targeted “active” treatment such as an antioxidant, retinoid, or peptide that meets specific goals like anti-aging, acne, or hyperpigmentation.  Ideally vitamin C during the day, and retinol at night if your skin tolerates it. There are many different brands and products available for all skin types.
3. Moisturizer: Keep your skin hydrated, especially during the dry winter months, with a moisturizer to reinforce the skin barrier and keep your skin feeling good.
4. Sun Protection: A daily broad-spectrum SPF of 30 or higher goes a long way to protect your skin as you go about your day. Many moisturizers also contain an SPF, so you can simplify your product lineup even more.

Combat the Overwhelm With a Skin Reset

If your bathroom vanity resembles a Sephora display, you might feel a little overwhelmed by the idea of simplifying your skincare routine. We’ve broken it down for you with a step-by-step process that focuses on what you need, and what you can remove from your routine.

Consider Your Products. Review what you have – you might be surprised at how many products have expired or simply no longer match your skincare goals. Discard anything that no longer works so you can start fresh.

Narrow Down Only the Essentials. Using the “core four” products for a minimized skincare routine that we detailed above, identify the products that fill those buckets, and set aside the outliers.

Introduce Your “Actives”. Active treatments like retinoids, ceramides, or antioxidants can be very effective if introduced slowly and purposefully. We recommend alternating nights for a week or so, and following use with a moisturizer to help alleviate any potential irritation. After a week of use with no irritation, introduce your active treatment into your nightly routine.

Exfoliate Intermittently. Exfoliating is a great way to give your skin a deep clean, but over-exfoliation can compromise the skin barrier and lead to dryness, redness, or irritation. Exfoliate once each week if you have dry or sensitive skin, and two-to-three times each week if you have oily or combination skin. Like introducing new treatments, start slowly to gauge your skin’s reaction and prevent irritation.

Stay the Course. When you order your favorite tofu pad thai from the restaurant down the street, it should taste the same every time – that’s why you love it! Your skin also craves consistency, which helps avoid irritation, dryness, or breakouts. It’s also important to remember that results don’t happen overnight, so stay the course – it often takes several weeks before you see improvements.

Skincare for Aging Skin

Our skin changes after the age of 40; you may notice drier skin, the appearance of fine lines or wrinkles, areas of pigmentation, and areas that feel looser or less firm.

A common reaction is to start laying on products to cover these areas, but as board-certified dermatologists, we recommend a simpler routine tailored for maturing skin.

Morning:

• Wash skin with a gentle, mild cleanser. We love CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser and La Roche Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Facial Cleaner.
• Apply an antioxidant serum with vitamin C or vitamin E to help brighten skin and support its structure. We love Revision Skincare’s C+ Correcting Complex 30% ® and Alastin’s C Radical Defense.
• Use a gentle moisturizer with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides to strengthen the skin barrier and help skin remain supple. We love CeraVe Ultra Light Moisturizing Gel and Alastin’s HA (Hyaluronic Acid) IMMERSE Serum. For extra dry skin, we like Alastin’s Ultra Nourshing Moisturizer.
• Protect with a daily broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF or 30 or higher. Aside from the obvious need to protect against skin cancer, UV exposure also contributes to aging skin. We love Alastin’s HydraTint Pro Mineral Sunscreen, Revision Skincare’s Intellishade, and any of EltaMD’s or LaRoche Posay’s face sunscreens.

Evening:

• Cleanse before bed with your favorite cleanser.
• Apply an active treatment like a retinol or peptide serum to clean dry skin to support collagen, smooth fine lines, and improve the skin’s texture. We love Alastin’s 0.25 or 0.5 Renewal Retinol depending on the sensitivity of your skin
• Use an emollient cream before bed to repair and protect the skin barrier while you sleep. We love CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream.

Support Your Skin Outside of Your Products

It’s not just skincare products that protect our skin. Our lifestyles impact our skin health, too. Consider these key influences as rethink your skincare routine for 2026:

• Protect your skin from UV rays with sunscreen and by avoiding extended exposure to direct sunlight; wearing protective clothing like hats, sleeves, and SPF fabrics; and avoiding tanning bed use. Remember, the sun is the number one ager of the skin.
• If you’re a smoker, make 2026 your year to quit. Tobacco accelerates signs of aging and quitting can make a big difference in your skin’s tone and texture – not to mention your overall health.
• Eat for skin health. Foods like fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, and lean proteins support skin health from within and help you look and feel your best.
• Don’t underestimate the power of sleep! Getting 7-8 hours of sleep each night is great for your energy levels but also for your skin, which repairs itself all night while you sleep.

It’s common to want to reset and refresh in the new year, and we want to help you adopt a skincare routine that you can stick to past the first two weeks of January. Following this skincare reset arms you with a routine you can manage, a practical amount of skincare products that will care for your skin – not irritate or over-treat it – and a simple plan you can follow for the long-term for lasting results.

Paring back to only the essentials ensures you’re giving your skin a strong foundation without unnecessary complexity. And for those of you over the age of 40, targeted adjustments like gentle cleaners, moisturizers, and retinoids – coupled with daily sun protection – can help you maintain healthy, glowing, resilient skin in 2026 and beyond.

Optima Dermatology’s board-certified dermatologists and providers are committed to helping you find the right skincare routine that works for you.

Request an appointment to speak with one of our expert providers about simplifying your skincare for 2026 and how to make it your year for great skin.

Every year brings new trends – from fashion to food to fitness – and skincare trends are certainly always high on the list. As we look toward 2026, we expect to see a continued emphasis on skin health and age-defying care, as well as treatments and products that deliver longer-term results rather than quick, temporary fixes.  

We want to help you be skin smart in 2026. In this post, we review the top skincare trends we expect to see in the new year and give you all the info so you know what might be the best option for you.  

1. Prevention and Skin Health: Early Intervention 

Addressing signs of aging has long been a cornerstone of the skincare industry, and while it’ll continue to take center stage in 2026, it’s looking a little different. If you’re in your 20s or 30s, you’ll want to pay attention. 

Instead of a more “reactionary” approach (reducing wrinkles, diminishing age spots, or using fillers to smooth and plum skin) the anti-aging trend for 2026 is focused on early intervention. Individuals in their 20s and 30s are increasingly choosing treatments and skincare products designed to maintain healthy, youthful skin before signs of aging appear; also indicating skin health awareness is growing among younger generations.  

Jump on this trend: These popular preventive treatments include: 

• Neurotoxins (like Botox^®) for subtle wrinkle prevention. 

• Microneedling to stimulate collagen and reduce early fine lines. 

• BroadBand Light (BBL™) and HALO^® hybrid fractional laser for improving skin tone and texture. 

• At-home red light LED masks, our providers specifically recommend OmniLuxe, available for purchase at select Optima Dermatology locations! 

2. Prevention and Skin Health: Skin Cancer 

Gradually, people are abandoning long-held trends toward having sun-kissed and tan summer skin year-round. Tanning bed use is in decline, according to the National Cancer Institute, and greater skin cancer awareness has increased daily sunscreen use and overall prevention habits. 

In 2026, we expect to see more emphasis on skin cancer prevention, with a growing popularity for daily face and body moisturizers with an SPF of 30 or higher, a continued decline in tanning bed use, and increased emphasis on receiving annual skin checks. These habits can also help prevent signs of aging – a win-win along with our first trend of early intervention! 

Jump on this trend: If you’re a tanning bed user, now’s the time to make the switch. Skip the harmful UV rays and opt for a self-tanner or spray tan instead. Add a daily moisturizer with SPF to your routine – trusted brands like Cerave and Laroche Posay make light, SPF 50 facial moisturizers that offer all-day protection, and should be used even when it’s cold and cloudy! In the sun, wear a hat or UPF clothing to ramp up protection, and seek shade whenever possible.  

3. Stem Cell, Exosome, and Peptide Technology 

We’ve been seeing a shift toward restorative, regenerative skincare driven by developments in skincare science that utilize bioactive ingredients to target skin repair at the cellular level.  

In 2026, we expect to see more products and in-office treatments designed to work with the skin’s natural healing processes.  

Jump on this trend: Here are two restorative, regenerative treatments to consider: 

• Stem cell and exosome treatments: These are getting attention for their ability to promote regeneration, improve elasticity, and enhance hydration. Stem cell and exosome therapies deliver powerful growth factors and signaling molecules that help restore the skin’s natural function and appearance. As a standalone treatment, exosomes can be applied topically or delivered through non-invasive methods to calm inflammation, enhance skin tone and texture, and promote a more radiant, balanced complexion. When paired with microneedling, exosomes can be even more effective. Microneedling creates microchannels in the skin that enhance the absorption and penetration of exosomes, allowing their growth factors to reach deeper layers. This combination can accelerate healing, amplify collagen production, reduce downtime, and deliver more dramatic improvements in firmness, brightness, and overall skin quality. 

• Peptides: Already a favorite among dermatologists, peptides continue to rise in popularity for their ability to boost collagen and improve firmness and texture, especially when combined with microneedling or laser treatments. 

4. Scalp and Hair Health 

You may not have realized, but healthy hair is also part of skincare because it’s dependent on a healthy scalp. In 2026, we expect to see scalp care getting the same attention as general skincare with people looking to combat thinning or damaged hair. 

Jump on this trend: Support hair growth and scalp wellness using: 

• Prescription and over-the-counter topicals to strengthen hair and stimulate follicles. 

• Nutritional supplements that support hair from the inside out. We recommend consulting your dermatologist about the right supplement to ensure you select a high-quality option that is more likely to produce the best results. 

• PRP (platelet-rich plasma) treatments that use your body’s own growth factors to encourage new growth. 

• Scalp exfoliation and microneedling to improve circulation and absorption of active ingredients. 

Ongoing research has linked scalp health to improved hair density and strength, and more people are turning to dermatologist-recommended solutions for fuller, healthier hair. 

5. Using Technology to Boost Under-Eye Care 

Addressing under-eye darkness, thinning, or sagging, is a popular topic and while the under-eye area has historically been one of the harder areas to treat, new tech-infused approaches are making a big difference.  

Jump on this trend: Dermatologists are using treatments like: 

• Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers for hollow or tired-looking eyes. 

• PRP injections to brighten and firm delicate skin naturally. 

The demand for effective under-eye creams also continues to grow. Patients are looking for dermatologist-approved formulas with ingredients like caffeine, niacinamide, peptides, and retinol so they can address puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines from home during their regular skincare routine. 

6. Strengthening the Skin Barrier 

Over the last few years, the “skin barrier” has gotten a lot of attention with advice for enhanced protection, strengthening, and rejuvenation. We’re going to see the same focus continue in 2026, but with a slightly refined approach.  

Jump on this trend: After the viral rise of “slugging” that dictates a thick application of ointment at night to lock-in moisture, in 2026 we expect instead to see a focus on skin barrier repair using ceramide- and lipid-rich formulas that restore balance and prevent irritation. 

At Optima Dermatology, we’re also encouraging patients to simplify their skincare routines to focus more on hydration, and to use products designed that strengthen the barrier rather than over-exfoliate or sensitize the skin. 

7. Dermatologist-Branded Skincare Takes Center Stage 

With good reason, consumers are becoming increasingly skeptical of influencer-endorsed skincare lines with questionable verification and turning instead toward dermatologist-developed brands they can trust. 

Jump on this trend: Brands like CeraVe, La Roche-Posay, Alastin, and EltaMD have seen continued growth thanks to their science-backed formulas and dermatologist recommendations. Patients appreciate knowing their skincare is developed with real clinical research – not just marketing claims or viral Instagram shares. 

Optima’s expert providers are able to recommend personalized, dermatologist-approved routines that match your specific skin type and goals, so you can trust that your products and plan fit your unique needs. 

8. Microneedling Remains a Go-To Treatment 

Microneedling continues to be one of the most in-demand cosmetic treatments because of its effectiveness in triggering natural collagen and elastin production.  Microneedling often delivers a healthy glow after just one session, while longer-lasting improvements in collagen and firmness develop gradually with multiple treatments as your skin activates its natural regenerative process. 

Jump on this trend: In 2026, we expect to see newer techniques like radiofrequency microneedling and microneedling with PRP grow in use because of the ease and effectiveness of results they can produce. These treatments help smooth, tighten, and rejuvenate skin with minimal downtime, making them an ideal choice for patients looking for noticeable improvements without surgery. 

Get Ready! Healthy, Preventive, and Personalized Skincare 

Overall in the new year, the trend will be practicing healthy, preventive, and personalized skincare.  

Whether you’re interested in early prevention, advanced rejuvenation, or expert guidance on the latest treatments, our board-certified dermatologists can help you create a customized plan that’s right for your skin now, for 2026, and for the years ahead.  

Request an appointment to speak with one of our expert providers about how to pursue your skincare goals in the new year and beyond.

Dr. Lipner Joins Optima’s Manchester, NH Dermatology Practice 

Optima Dermatology is excited to welcome Dr. Matthew Lipner to its Manchester, NH dermatology practice. Dr. Lipner treats patients of all ages for a variety of skin conditions, including skin cancer, acne, eczema, and psoriasis. 

Dr. Lipner received his Doctor of Medicine from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC) School of Medicine where he was inducted into the Alpha Omega Medical Honor Society. He also earned his Doctor of Philosophy in Pharmacology at the Lineberger Cancer Center at UNC. While earning his MD and PhD, Dr. Lipner served as Vice President and later President of the Program Student Council. 

He then completed his dermatology residency at UNC, during which he served as Cosmetics Curriculum Chair. He also completed a transitional year residency program at Grand Strand Medical Center.  

In keeping with Optima Dermatology’s patient-centered approach to care, Dr. Lipner is committed to delivering an unparalleled patient experience and providing the highest quality of care to his patients.  

We recently had the opportunity to learn more about Dr. Lipner, his approach, and the path that led him to become a dermatologist. 

What made you decide to pursue a career in dermatology? What did the path to get there look like for you?    

Throughout medical school and while completing my PhD, I was immersed in cancer care and research. As soon as I began my rotation in the dermatology clinic, I knew that I had found the perfect field to combine all my interests. Dermatology features exciting new treatments that drew me to oncology while also embracing a thrilling diversity of patients, complex medical cases, surgeries, and procedures. 

What is your favorite aspect of being a dermatologist? 

That’s easy – there is never a dull moment in dermatology! I am so grateful that my work is constantly challenging, fosters lifelong learning about new medical and aesthetic therapies, and leads to fulfilling long-term relationships with patients and colleagues of all ages and backgrounds. 

What is your approach to treating your patients? 

My approach really depends on a patient’s focus for their visit, but generally a physical examination – detecting subtle differences in the appearance, shapes, and textures of rashes and lesions – is my most powerful tool as a dermatologist. After this, the detective work begins as my patients and I integrate exam findings with the timeline, potential exposures, and symptoms to arrive at a diagnosis and management plan together. This process repeats, and our partnership strengthens over time as we work together to optimize skin health in the short- and long-term. 

What is your number one tip when it comes to taking care of your skin? 

Protect your skin every day from the sun with a broad-spectrum sunscreen and sun-protective clothing. This tip is no secret, but all other topicals, supplements, and procedures will have limited benefits until strong sun protection becomes part of your daily routine. 

What is one thing you want your patients to know about you? 

Your skin health is my top priority. 

What do you like to do when you are not in the office treating patients? 

When I’m not working, my wife and I are hustling to keep up with our two young daughters and dog – and I wouldn’t want it any other way!  We love exploring the outdoors, trying our hand at recipes from around the world, and watching football in the fall. 

What to Expect From Dermatological Care Delivered by Dr. Lipner and His Team 

Dr. Lipner and his team at Optima Dermatology offer exceptional services and have the advanced training and experience to ensure the highest quality of care.  

He is currently accepting new patients at our Manchester, NH location. Request an appointment online or give us a call at 855-277-9689.

What to Know About This Dermatologist-Approved Skin Care Method Before You Try It

Looking for a fresh approach to your skin care as we move into warmer months? Consider implementing a skin cycling routine.  

Skin cycling is a method many dermatologists, including the American Academy of Dermatology, promote as a healthier skin care approach. In this post, we’ll explain what skin cycling is, the benefits of this method, and how to implement it into your skin care regimen. We’re laying out all the information so you can decide if a skin cycling routine is right for you.  

What is Skin Cycling? 

More isn’t always better for skin care. All these serums, balms, toners, exfoliators, moisturizers, and specialized treatments can overwhelm any skin care routine – and your skin. Skin cycling entered the picture to simplify skin care. 

Skin cycling is a dermatologist-approved rotating skin care routine designed to balance active ingredients with recovery time, so you can get the most out of your skin care products while minimizing irritation.  

Rather than using powerful products like exfoliants and retinoids every day, which can stress your skin over time, skin cycling typically follows a four-night cycle that gives your skin time to rest and repair between active treatments. 

A four-night skin cycling routine looks something like this: 

Night 1 – Exfoliation: Use a chemical exfoliant (like an AHA or BHA) to remove dead skin cells and prep your skin for better product absorption. 

Night 2 – Retinoid: Apply a retinoid or retinol to stimulate cell turnover and support collagen production. This product can be over-the-counter or prescription, depending on your needs. 

Nights 3 & 4 – Recovery: Focus on hydration and barrier repair with gentle moisturizers, ceramides, and calming ingredients. Apply to damp skin to better seal in hydration. 

Once the 4-night cycle ends, it repeats. The idea behind skin cycling is to vary your regimen so you’re adequately spacing out exfoliation and moisturization, resulting in a healthier approach to your skin care. You shouldn’t be exfoliating every night, but when balanced with other skin care practices, it is an effective treatment that helps promote healthy, glowing skin.  

Who Should Try Skin Cycling? 

Skin cycling is a great option for anyone looking to reset, simplify, or streamline their skin care routine. However, it is an especially good option for: 

• Beginners who want a structured, manageable skin care routine. 

• People with sensitive skin who experience irritation from daily active use. 

• Those using retinoids or exfoliants who want better results without overdoing it. 

If you have skin conditions like rosacea, eczema, or acne, check in with your dermatologist to ensure a skin cycling routine can support your skin’s needs. 

Benefits of Implementing a Skin Cycling Routine 

Skin cycling has gained popularity for good reason – it has numerous benefits that have earned the support of dermatologists. 

• Reduces irritation: Alternating active ingredients with rest days helps protect the skin barrier and prevents over-exfoliation. 

• Simplifies your routine: No more guessing what to use each night—skin cycling provides a clear plan – and eliminates the need to pack your bathroom full of products. 

• Maximizes results: By using exfoliants and retinoids on specific nights, your skin gets the full benefit of these products without being overwhelmed or stressed, which can reduce results over time. 

• Allows for customization: Your skin cycling routine can be adjusted based on your skin’s needs – whether you’re targeting acne, signs of aging, or texture issues, you can cycle through the products that work best for your skin. 

How to Layer Skin Care Products the Right Way 

Layering your skin care products properly is important for skin cycling – but it also applies if you’re not following a skin cycling routine. Here’s a basic layering guide: 

At Night: 

1. Cleanser – Remove makeup, dirt, and oil. 

2. Exfoliant or Retinoid – On the appropriate night of your cycle, apply your active product to clean, dry skin. 

3. Moisturizer – Always follow with a moisturizer to hydrate and protect your skin barrier. 

On Recovery Nights: 

Skip products with active ingredients in favor of gentler treatments: 

1. A gentle cleanser 

2. A hydrating serum or essence (optional) 

3. A barrier-repairing moisturizer 

In the Morning: 

1. A gentle cleanser, which is optional in the morning if you don’t have oily skin.  

2. An antioxidant serum like vitamin C to brighten and protect the skin. 

3. A lightweight and hydrating moisturizer. 

4. Sunscreen! A broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher is always recommended for protection throughout your day. 

5 Easy Tips for Starting a Skin Cycling Routine  

If you’re ready to give skin cycling a try, here are a few simple steps to help you get started: 

1. Choose your active-ingredient products carefully. For example, look for exfoliating products with alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs). AHAs are recommended for dry or normal skin types, while BHAs are a good option for more oily or acne-prone skin. For retinoids, start with an over-the-counter retinol before progressing to stronger formulations. 

2. Keep your recovery nights simple. Stick with fragrance-free, hydrating products that support your skin’s barrier. 

3. Be patient. Visible improvements take time – typically 4 to 8 weeks. Avoid rushing or adding products; skin cycling works best as a four-night regimen with only the necessary products. 

4. Listen to your skin. If you notice increased dryness, redness, or sensitivity, add more recovery nights or adjust your products containing active ingredients. If problems persist, contact your dermatologist to discuss potential issues with product ingredients or your routine.  

5. Consult with a dermatologist or medical aesthetic provider. A skin care professional can help customize your skin cycle and recommend the best products for your skin type and unique needs. 

Skin cycling isn’t just a trend – many dermatologists, including at Optima Dermatology, agree that it can help you get the most out of your skin care with less irritation and more consistency. Whether you’re just starting a skin care routine or looking to simplify an existing one, skin cycling offers a balanced approach that supports long-term skin health. 

Schedule an appointment with one of our providers to discuss a skin care routine that will work best for you. 

A Guide to Unlocking the Skin’s Potential With Growth Factors for Skin

With a somewhat ambiguous name, it’s no wonder growth factors for skin are often met with confusion or a lack of awareness. Despite being developed in the 50s and undergoing decades of science and study, growth factors have only recently become a sought-after ingredient for their anti-aging properties.

Whether you’ve heard of growth factors or are just delving in, it’s important to understand what you’re buying and how it can benefit your skin.

What Are Growth Factors for Skin?

Growth factors are proteins that occur naturally in the body to help with repairing damaged skin and promoting skin cell growth, and collagen and elastin production. They do a lot for our skin, with one amazing outcome: helping our skin look healthy and rejuvenated.

There are multiple types of growth factors present in the body, and they all have different jobs.

• Epidermal Growth Factors (EGF) help in healing and repairing damaged skin, these are great for post procedure healing or wound healing.
• Fibroblast Growth Factors (FGF) stimulate collagen and elastin production to support and strengthen the skin, these often play a role in anti-aging treatment.
• Platelet-Derived Growth Factors (PDGF) help repair the skin’s tissues when damaged or compromised.
• Transforming Growth Factors (TGF) help maintain collagen levels.
• Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors (VEGF) support blood flow to the skin, encouraging a healthy, radiant glow.

Like collagen and elastin, growth factors also decrease as we age, resulting in more pronounced fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin. People often turn to supplements and topical products to pause or reverse these signs of aging, and growth factors have gained popularity as a treatment that gets results.

How Do They Work?

Because the body already produces growth factors, taking a supplement or applying them topically to the skin is simply replenishing what may be a diminishing supply in your body.

These “artificial” growth factors are typically derived from the proteins produced by animal or human stem cells and are bioengineered specifically for skincare. Growth factors with the same skin repair and rejuvenation functions have also been developed from plant-derived ingredients.

Growth factors stimulate the production of collagen and elastin. In doing so, growth factors can help your skin more quickly and effectively recover from sun or other damage, as well as signs of aging.

Collagen and elastin are essential in keeping the skin strong, tight, smooth, and supported, so as wrinkles and fine lines emerge, growth factors can send signals to your skin to reverse course.

Topical growth factors can help your skin:

• Look brighter, healthier, and rejuvenated
• Become tighter and stronger, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
• Recover more quickly from sun damage or cosmetic treatments such as lasers or chemical peels
• Turn over and renew skin cells more quickly and efficiently
• Better protect itself from harsh chemicals and environmental stressors by strengthening the skin barrier
• Retain more moisture, staying hydrated for longer

Working Growth Factors into Your Skincare Routine

The most important first step to using growth factors is selecting the right product for your skin type and unique needs. They are available as serums and creams and are applied topically to the skin. You should always consult with your dermatology provider before starting a new skincare product, but growth factors have been found to be safe for all skin types. Some minor side effects can include dry skin or rashes.

Anyone who is interested in reducing fine lines and wrinkles and improving their skin health is a candidate for growth factors. Most people report seeing results within 4-8 weeks of treatment, with full results within 12 weeks. Optimal results rely on continued use past the initial 12 weeks, as results can continue to be seen up to several months after starting treatment.

Some top-rated products recommended by our expert medical aesthetics providers include:

Exosomes

Exosomes are a cutting-edge regenerative treatment that contains growth factors, peptides, and lipids. Exosomes stimulate collagen production, enhance cellular communication, and accelerate healing. They are commonly used to improve skin texture, tone, and elasticity, and to support recovery after aesthetic treatments like microneedling and laser procedures.

Platelet-Rich-Plasma (PRP)

PRP is a natural treatment that utilizes the patient’s own blood to stimulate skin and hair regeneration. After drawing a small amount of blood, it is spun in a centrifuge to concentrate the platelets and growth factors. PRP is widely used for skin rejuvenation, helping to improve fine lines, texture, and overall skin health. It is also a popular treatment for hair restoration, as the growth factors in PRP can strengthen hair follicles and encourage new hair growth.

Product Recommendations

• SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum
• ZO Skin Health Growth Factor Serum
• SkinBetter Science Techno Neck Perfecting Cream
• Nutrafol Hair Serum

There have been a lot of studies and research over the years that indicate growth factors can visibly reduce wrinkles and fine lines and improve overall skin health. However, it’s always best to speak with a specialized provider to discuss your specific concerns and understand the best product and skincare regimen for you.

Our expert dermatologists and medical aesthetic providers are well-versed in skin care, cosmetic dermatology, and anti-aging approaches, and we encourage you to schedule a consultation to discuss your specific concerns and better understand if growth factors are for you! Book an appointment today.