The increasing trend of smoother and firmer faces isn’t just a figment of your imagination. Cosmetic neuromodulator injections, including Botox, Daxxify, and Xeomin, surged by 73% between 2019 and 2022, followed by a 9% rise in 2023. However, many individuals remain hesitant about these procedures due to costs—averaging $435 for a single treatment from a certified dermatologist—and concerns about potential long-term effects on muscle composition. For those preferring non-invasive alternatives, innovative options are emerging in skincare.
One standout ingredient is ectoin, an amino acid derivative praised for enhancing skin barrier function. According to cosmetic chemist Gloria Lu, ectoin not only aids in healing damaged skin but also protects against UV damage. Dermatologist Julie Russak likens it to a protective moat around skin cells. Products like Byoma’s Barrier+ Repair Treatment ($19) and Biossance’s Squalane + Ectoin Overnight Rescue Deep Repair Night Cream ($68) incorporate ectoin to hydrate and plump the skin.
To combat “inflammaging,” a term for chronic inflammation’s impact on aging, ingredients such as lipoamino acid and naringenin are gaining traction. These compounds help reduce inflammation at the cellular level, with Yon-Ka’s Time Resist Cream ($150) and Deinde’s Skin Strengthening Serum ($88) offering effective formulations.
Additionally, stem cells and exosomes are making waves in topical skincare, transforming aging skin. Celebrity facialist Angela Caglia’s Cell Forté Serum ($395) utilizes human-derived stem cells, while Plated Skin Science’s Intense Serum ($258) contains trillions of exosomes to promote collagen production.
Lastly, neuropeptides—amino acid chains that relax facial muscles—offer a subtler alternative to injections. Products like Eighth Day’s formulations, infused with synthetic neuropeptides, can temporarily soften fine lines. As more people seek non-invasive methods to enhance their appearance, these innovations present compelling options.
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