The Aesthetic Edge: July 2025

Stay up-to-date with the latest research and trends in aesthetics to keep patients informed in the July version of The Aesthetic Edge. Dermatology Times is asking 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 conducted research on? Email mbosslett@mjhlifesciences.com to share your insights and experience with our audience of clinicians, and you may be featured in an upcoming roundup!

Even Intensive Skin Tone Correcting Serum | skinbetter science

Even Intensive Skin Tone Correcting Serum | skinbetter science

This discoloration corrector uses gentle AHAs to address spots, renew surface skin, and mitigate oxidative stress on red and sallow skin. skinbetter's b.r.y.t.e.r. and TAP technology addresses 5 pathways of pigmentation. In a clinical trial, patients with mild to severe pigmentation, dullness, and rough texture saw improvements as early as 4 weeks in. According to skinbetter science, 95% of participants felt their skin appeared smoother and less discolored, with a 47% mean improvement in skin dullness, 46% mean improvement in skin roughness, and 42% mean improvement in the appearance of pigmentation after 12 weeks.¹

"skinbetter science continues to lead in innovation, now pairing their new b.r.y.t.e.r. biotechnology with their patented TAP technology. This serum delivers substantial improvements in the appearance of persistent discoloration while maintaining high tolerability, even clinically tested to be suitable for sensitive skin. It's a true advancement in how we approach stubborn discoloration." - Sonia Batra, MD, board-certified dermatologist at Batra Medical, Surgical and Cosmetic Dermatology in Santa Monica, California, told Dermatology Times.

Collagen Bank Face Moisturizers | Neutrogena

Collagen Bank Face Moisturizers | Neutrogena

The line of products from Neutrogena is clinically proven to strengthen existing collagen while building new collagen, making patients’ skin firmer and plumper. With patented micro-peptide technology that is 2x smaller than the leading anti-aging peptide, these formulas can be properly absorbed deep into over 10 layers of skin. Two versions are available: one for daytime, which includes SPF 30, and one for nighttime, which includes bakuchiol, a plant-based retinol alternative. When used together, these products defend against environmental stressors and work on 5 early signs of collagen decline, including radiance, texture, fine lines, firmness, and elasticity, according to a poster presented at the American Academy of Dermatology Annual Meeting.² The elegant formula is great for all skin types, even in younger patients interested in preventative aging outside of daily sunscreen use.
“The technology around the product is really impressive (and one the derm community is excited about) and the data around the peptide is superior to most of what I’ve seen out there. The team ran full-fledged studies and have great science behind the technology. At the end of the day, that is most important when choosing products. I have been recommending the SPF version to help minimize steps in the routine and my patients have really loved it.” - Dhaval G. Bhanusali, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist and owner of Hudson Dermatology and Laser Surgery in New York City, said to Dermatology Times.

HydraFillic with Pep9 Booster | Hydrafacial

HydraFillic with Pep9 Booster | Hydrafacial

Hydrafacial’s newest skin booster utilizes Pep9, the brand’s proprietary complex of 9 unique peptides that work together to visibly address the signs of aging and strengthen the skin barrier. With a triple hyaluronic acid complex, fruit extracts such as vitamin B5, and vortex-fusion technology, the in-office therapy penetrates skin layers and leaves patients with smooth and hydrated skin. In clinical trials, 30 participants saw an improvement in the firmness, elasticity, and appearance of their skin just 24 hours post-treatment.³ Additionally, 96% observed an improvement in overall skin glow, and 93% said their skin looked and felt tighter, smoother, and more deeply hydrated. More than 80% of respondents expressed that their fine lines and wrinkles looked less noticeable as well.

"What impressed me about HydraFillic with Pep9 is the real clinical data. After a single treatment, we saw measurable improvements in hydration and skin barrier health, and a visible reduction in fine lines and wrinkles. Hydrafacial’s new booster allows me to offer patients a noninvasive, zero-downtime option to address early signs of aging and skin laxity. Whether they’re post weight loss, preventive-minded, or just looking for a healthier glow, this booster elevates the results I can deliver in practice.” - Tess Mauricio, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist, president and founder at M Beauty Clinic by Dr. Tess in San Diego, California, told Dermatology Times.

Collagen ReActivate PM Lifting Treatment Moisturizer + Retinol | HydroPeptide

Collagen ReActivate PM Lifting Treatment Moisturizer + Retinol | HydroPeptide

Proprietary NIMNI Technology supports this new frontier in regenerative skin care, which can be used on patients with any skin type, especially as a complement to in-office aesthetic procedures. The 0.25% time-release retinol increases collagen synthesis activity by 200%, making skin firmer and restored with no irritation. In HydroPeptide's clinical trials, 91% of patients saw notable improvements in fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, tone, texture, and facial laxity.⁴

"Collagen ReActivate PM delivers a targeted technological approach by modulating key biological pathways involved in extracellular matrix repair. Central to its mechanism of action is Nimni Technology, a patented multi-amino acid complex designed to provide critical precursors for the biosynthesis of multiple collagen types and elastin fibers, supporting restoration of the skin’s architectural integrity. The formula is further enhanced by a dual biomimetic peptide complex and bioavailable copper, which act as signaling molecules to upregulate fibroblast activity and stimulate neocollagenesis and neoelastogenesis.” - Matt Jarvis, MBA, Director of Global Advocacy and Education at HydroPeptide, said in a statement to Dermatology Times.

The Frosteam

The Frosteam

Developed with a dermatologist-first approach, Frostem combines hot nano-ionic steam, cold therapy, and aromatherapy in 1 non-invasive device, eliminating the need for multiple treatments, tools, and clinic visits. The tool targets dull, dehydrated, and congested skin with early signs of aging without using external ice or water. It is also suitable for pre- and post-procedure care and maintenance, especially after extractions, microneedling, or laser therapy. For best results, users are able to customize the steam intensity, cooling, and lighting during their 10-minute daily sessions through a mobile app. It is a great option for patients and providers looking for more sustainable treatments versus single-use masks or steamers. Clinical research has shown that nano-steam (<0.5 μm) increases stratum corneum hydration by ~20%, improves skin permeability, and decreases transepidermal water loss, while facial cooling reduces erythema, puffiness, and inflammation.⁵ More specifically, the studies observed a 50% reduction in facial puffiness, a 34% decrease in sebum production, a 45% reduction in under-eye swelling, and 52% fewer visible fine lines after 1 month.

“Cold therapy helps reduce inflammation and minimize pores, while nano-steam preps the skin for optimal absorption of topical products. Aromatherapy, often overlooked, can be valuable in managing stress-induced skin conditions. Frosteam brings these together in a way that’s convenient and clinically smart.” - Geeta Yadav, MD, board-certified dermatologist, medical director, and founder of FACET Dermatology in Toronto, Canada, said to Dermatology Times.

References

1. Grimes PE, McDaniel DH, Wortzman M, Nelson D. In Vitro and In Vivo Efficacy and Tolerability of a Non-Hydroquinone, Multi-Action Skin Tone Correcting Cream. J Drugs Dermatol. 2019;18(7):642-648.

2. Shyr, Thomas C., et al. Multi-decade Studies of Clinical and Pre-clinical Changes in Facial Skin Define Skin Pre-aging. Poster Presented at the American Academy of Dermatology Annual Meeting, March 7-11, 2025, in Orlando, Florida.

3. Hydrafacial unveils new HydraFillic with Pep9™ Skin Booster for fine line & wrinkles. News release. Globe Newswire. June 10, 2025. Accessed July 15, 2025. https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/06/10/3096588/0/en/Hydrafacial-Unveils-New-HydraFillic-with-Pep9-Skin-Booster-For-Fine-Line-Wrinkles.html

4. Sadick N, Bohnert K, Serra M, Kitchen N. Single-Center, Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Study of the Efficacy and Safety of a Cream Formulation for Improving Facial Wrinkles and Skin Quality. J Drugs Dermatol. 2018;17(6):664-669.

5. Piotrowska, A., et al. Impact of whole-body cryotherapy session on skin hydration, TEWL, and pH in volunteers. Cryobiology. 2021