January 2026 - Innovation and Key Trends

AWARDS FINALISTS ANNOUNCED January 2026 | VOLUME 14 - ISSUE 2

The Resource for Medical Aesthetics Professionals

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CPD: Reviewing Polynucleotides Miss Jenny Doyle, Dr Aaminah Haq and Dr Arshi Baig review polynucleotide treatments

Special Feature: Achieving Facial Rejuvenation Through Biostimulants Understanding the Modern Lip Augmentation Landscape

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

Dr Bhavik Shah and Dr Munir Somji explore exosome therapy for hair loss Gilly Dickons breaks down why competitor analysis is essential for clinics

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Adverse events should be reported. Reporting forms and information for United Kingdom can be found at https://yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk/. Reporting forms and information for Republic of Ireland can be found at https://www.hpra.ie/homepage/about-us/report-an-issue. Adverse events should also be reported to Merz Aesthetics UK Ltd by emailing UKdrugsafety@merz.com or calling +44 (0) 333 200 4143.

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Contents • January 2026 08 News The latest product and specialty news

17 Early Skin Cancer Detection in Aesthetics Aesthetics examines skin cancer discovery opportunities in aesthetic clinics

CLINICAL PRACTICE 20 Choose Your Networking Journey Your personal guide to networking, connection and career growth at ACE 2026

News Special: Early Skin Cancer Detection in Aesthetics Page 17

23 Special Feature: Achieving Facial Rejuvenation Through Collagen Biostimulants Practitioners consider the role of collagen biostimulants and how they enhance skin health and rejuvenation

28 CPD: A Review of Polynucleotide Treatments Miss Jenny Doyle, Dr Aaminah Haq and Dr Arshi Baig review research in polynucleotide treatments

33 Acne Vulgaris in Skin of Colour Dr Sidra Khan explores the acne vulgaris in patients with SOC

36 Exosome Therapy for Hair Loss Dr Bhavik Shah and Dr Munir Somji explore exosome therapy for the management of hair loss

Special Feature: Achieving Facial Rejuvenation Through Collagen Biostimulants Page 23

Clinical Contributors Miss Jennifer Doyle is a consultant oculoplastic surgeon and founder of The Clinic at Holland Park. She also works within the

39 Aesthetics Awards Finalists The Finalists for The Aesthetics Awards 2026 have been announced

51 Understanding the Modern Lip Augmentation Landscape Dr Rasha and Dr Sara Rakhshani-Moghadam explore techniques of lip augmentation

57 Overview of Chemical Peel Applications

NHS as an oculoplastics consultant and is a key opinion leader for Sciton, Sofwave, Skinstorm and Ameela.

Dr Aaminah Haq is an ophthalmology registrar and aesthetic doctor at The Clinic at Holland Park. She trained in Oxford Deanery as a microsurgeon and undertook her Level 7 in aesthetics at Harley Academy.

Dr Aiza Jamil illustrates how to integrate chemical peel applications into clinical practice

62 Sculptra: Where Regeneration Meets Aesthetic Precision The regenerative power of Sculptra for youthful-looking skin

63 Abstracts

Dr Arshi Baig is a resident doctor who completed her foundation training within the NHS. She has an interest in oculoplastic surgery and aesthetics and is currently undertaking a fellowship in the field at The Clinic at Holland Park.

Dr Rasha Rahkshani-Moghadem is an aesthetic practitioner, owner of Dr Rasha clinic and ambassador for Teoxane UK. Born in Kuwait and educated in Australia and the UK, she brings

A round-up and summary of the latest clinical studies

a blend of cultural diversity into practice.

IN PRACTICE

Dr Sara Rakhshani-Moghadam is an aesthetic

64 Harnessing Instagram for Clinic Success

experience in internal medicine, surgery and gynecology, she later

practitioner and a 2017 graduate from Kuwait University. With

Rachel Riley provides guidance for standing out on Instagram

67 Utilising Competitor Analysis Gilly Dickons highlights competitor analysis and how clinics can put it into practice

70 Rebuilding Community in Medical Aesthetics Julie Scott discusses the community for practitioner wellbeing and patient safety

focused on surgical practice in London.

Dr Sidra Khan is a consultant dermatologist specialising in lasers, skin ageing and skin of colour dermatology. She serves on national and international committees, including Skin of Colour Training UK. Dr Munir Somji is a cosmetic surgeon and co-founder of the DrMediSpa clinic group and Dr Somji Pro-Active Skincare. He is a key opinion leader and educator having lectured at King’s College London and global specialty conferences including CCR 2025.

73 In Profile: Dan Julien Aesthetic nurse practitioner Dan Julien shares his convoluted journey into aesthetics and his educational content

74 The Last Word: Understanding the Compound Effect Juan Lopez argues skincare consistency outperforms aggressive treatments for patient satisfaction

Dr Bhavik Shah is an aesthetic doctor at DrMediSpa clinics.

He holds a bachelor’s in dental surgery and has been working within the field of medical aesthetics for the past five years having taken on a Master of Science in Aesthetic Medicine.

Dr Aiza Jamil is a consultant dermatologist based at sk:n clinics and holds an American board certification in cosmetic and

NEXT MONTH: BODY, WEIGHT LOSS AND CONTOURING

medical laser. Dr Jamil also has diplomas in nutrition, psychology,

• GLP-1 • Gut microbiome • Psychodermatology

business administration and leadership management.

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Editor’s letter Welcome to the first Aesthetics Journal of 2026 – our innovation and key trends issue – where we explore the ideas, technologies and treatments shaping the future of medical aesthetics.

This month’s CPD focuses on the growing role of polynucleotides, while our Special Feature explores the increasing use of biostimulators, @shannonkilgariff offering practical insight into how these treatments are being used in clinic and what practitioners need to know.

Shannon Kilgariff Editor & Event Manager

Our News Special takes a closer look at the evolving role of aesthetic practitioners within skin cancer care, highlighting the importance of early detection and the opportunities for clinics to play a part in improving patient outcomes – an increasingly important conversation as scopes of practice continue to expand.

The team and I are delighted to announce this year’s Aesthetics Awards Finalists! It’s been truly inspiring to read through the entries,

which showcased real excellence, innovation and progression of our medical aesthetics specialty. Voting is officially open, so now is the time to support the aesthetic brands and products you love. Nominations are also open for the Outstanding Achievement Award – visit the website to nominate a peer or colleague. Finally, it wouldn’t be called the Oscar’s of Aesthetics without the attendance of 850 professionals in our field! So, get your team, friends and colleagues together and make sure you are there to support your community, network and celebrate excellence at the Ceremony on March 14.

We’re also looking ahead to the Aesthetics Conference & Exhibition (ACE) in March, with a preview of what delegates can expect.

Alongside the strong educational programme, ACE is well known for its networking opportunities – whether you’re looking to reconnect with colleagues, meet new faces, or simply be part of the wider aesthetics community, there really is something for everyone.

As we look forward to the year ahead, this issue captures both the progress being made and the exciting direction the specialty is heading in. Thank you, as always, for being part of the Aesthetics community – we look forward to supporting you throughout 2026.

Clinical Advisory Board

Leading figures from the medical aesthetic community have joined the Aesthetics Advisory Board to help steer the direction of our educational, clinical and business content

Sharon Bennett is the former chair of the British Association of Medical Aesthetic Nurses (BAMAN), UK lead of the BSI committee for aesthetic non-surgical standards and member of the Clinical Advisory Group for the JCCP. She is a trainer and a registered university mentor in cosmetic medical practice, and is finishing her MSc at Northumbria University. Bennett has won the Aesthetics Award for Nurse Practitioner of the Year and the Award for Outstanding Achievement.

If you are interested in contributing to the journal, get in touch...

Email: editorial@aestheticsjournal.com

Sharon Bennett, Clinical Lead Mr Naveen Cavale has been a consultant plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgeon since 2009. He has his own private clinic and hospital, REAL, in London’s Battersea. Mr Cavale is the national secretary for the ISAPS, president of the Royal Society of Medicine, and vice-chair for the British Foundation for International Reconstructive Surgery.

Dr Mayoni Gooneratne (MBBS, BSc, MRCS, MBCAM, AFMCP) was an NHS surgeon before establishing The Clinic by Dr Mayoni and founding Human Health – an initiative combining lifestyle with traditional and functional medicine to provide a ‘cell-up’ regenerative approach to aesthetics. She is also the co-founder of The British College of Functional Medicine.

Dr Sophie Shotter is the founder & medical director of Illuminate Skin Clinic in Kent and Harley Street, London. Her passion is for natural treatments delivered with utmost attention to safety. She works closely with Allergan as part of their UK and International Faculty.

Miss Elizabeth Hawkes is a consultant ophthalmologist and oculoplastic surgeon. She is the lead oculoplastic surgeon at the Cadogan Clinic, specialising in blepharoplasty and advanced facial aesthetics. Miss Hawkes is a full member of the BOPSS and the ESOPRS, and is an examiner and fellow of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists.

Jackie Partridge is an independent nurse prescriber. She is the clinical director and owner of Dermal Clinic in Edinburgh and a KOL for Galderma. She holds an MSc in Non-surgical Aesthetic Practice and a BSc in Dermatology.

Partridge is a stakeholder group member with Scottish Government/HIS, Honorary BACN member and JCCP Fitness to Practice Nurse.

Dr Anjali Mahto is one of the UK’s leading consultant dermatologists. She is a Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians, member of the Royal Society of Medicine and a spokesperson for The British Skin Foundation. In 2023 Dr Mahto opened Self London, a dermatology and lifestyle clinic aimed at managing skin conditions holistically.

Mr Adrian Richards is a plastic and cosmetic surgeon with over 30 years’ experience.

He is the clinical director of the aesthetic training provider Cosmetic Courses and surgeon at The Private Clinic. He is also a member of the British Association of Plastic and Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons and the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons.

Dr Souphi Samizadeh is a dental surgeon with a Master’s degree in Aesthetic Medicine and a PGCert in Clinical Education.

She is the founder of the Great British Academy of Medicine and Revivify London Clinic. Dr Samizadeh is a Visiting Teaching Fellow at University College London and King’s College London.

Dr Stefanie Williams is a dermatologist with a special interest in adult acne, rosacea and aesthetic medicine. She is the founder and medical director of multi-award winning EUDELO Dermatology & Skin Wellbeing in London, and creator of Delo Rx skincare. She is the author of three books and has published more than 100 scientific articles, book chapters and abstracts.

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Fiscal Forecast

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Autumn Budget brings higher costs for aesthetic clinics The Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, delivered the 2025 Autumn Budget.

Reeves described the Budget as one focused on “fair taxes, strong public services and a stable economy.” The measures outlined signal increased operational costs for employers across the UK.

#Masterclass Dr MJ Rowland-Warmann @dr_mj_smileworks I had the privilege of speaking at the GAIN by Galderma masterclass on aesthetic trends, including personalised treatments, natural results and regenerative injectables.

Key announcements likely to impact aesthetic practitioners include the freezing of income tax thresholds until the end of the 2030/31 financial year. This will inevitably cause fiscal drag as wages increase over the years slowly pushing those working in the aesthetics specialty into higher tax brackets.

#Conference Interface Aesthetics @interfaceaesthetics What a day at Interface Expo 2025! 300+ attendees, world-class speakers, on-stage injectables education, debate-driven discussions and live treatment demos.

Precaution

#Anniversary International Institute for Active Ageing @iiaaltd Environ turns 35!

Founded in 1990, Environ Skin Care UK has spent three and a half decades leading a science-led approach to skincare.

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Those who are paid though dividends are also set to be impacted, as Reeves announced a 2% rise on the basic and higher rates of tax on dividends from April 2026. This could impact the take home pay for aesthetic practitioners who pay themselves via dividends.

Sue Thomson, CEO of medical aesthetic consultancy company SJ Partnership, commented, “None of the changes in themselves are dramatic, but together they do shape a landscape where clinics and practitioners will feel more pressure on both costs and confidence. Frozen thresholds, rising dividend taxes and persistent inflation means there may be less room to breathe for clinicians and clinic owners.”

#Event Allergan Aesthetics @allerganaesthetics A fantastic event during our Future of HA Injectables press trip! It was full of insights, connection and meaningful discussion around dermal fillers.

#RedCarpet Lynton Lasers @lynton_uk An incredible night for the UK aesthetic space.

RedTouch Pro has officially arrived, and London didn’t miss it!

Salary-sacrificed pension contributions have also been capped at £2,000 per employee before tax, and any contributions above this threshold will be subject to both employee and employer National Insurance contributions. Both the National Minimum Wage (NMW) and National Living Wage (NLW) have increased, with NLW rising by 4.1% for workers aged 21 and over. While NMW has risen by 8.5% for those aged 18 to 20, and by 6% for under-18s and apprentices. These changes could result in higher payroll costs for aesthetic clinics.

New research highlights ultrasound to prevent complications New data has suggested ultrasound imaging as a means of minimising vascular risks during dermal filler procedures.

Researchers used ultrasound to assess 100 cases of adverse filler outcomes across centres in Brazil, Colombia, Chile, the Netherlands and the US. Nearly half of the scans showed absent blood flow in small vessels connecting superficial and deep facial arteries, while a third revealed compromised flow in major vessels. The research indicated that when dermal fillers are administered incorrectly and without the use of ultrasound imaging, filler material can obstruct key blood vessels, leading to serious complications such as tissue damage, facial deformity.

Ms Nora Nugent, consultant plastic surgeon and president of the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS), commented, “Risks like these from dermal fillers are one of the many reasons why we have been campaigning for a long time for increased regulation of aesthetic procedures, and restricting the provision of medical procedures like injectable treatments to those who have medical training.”

Aesthetics | January 2026

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Aesthetics Awards

The Aesthetics Awards announces Finalists Finalists for The Aesthetics Awards 2026 have now been announced, following a year of notably strong entries from across the medical aesthetics community.

The Awards is widely regarded as a marker of good practice within the specialty, recognising work that supports clinical standards, patient safety and innovation.

This year’s shortlist reflects the continued development of the sector, with both newer professionals and well-established clinics and companies represented. The Winners will be revealed on March 14 at Hilton, Park Lane, following the second day of the Aesthetics Conference & Exhibition (ACE) 2026. In selected categories, final scores will be determined by a combination of independent judging and public voting, which opens on January 5. Entries are assessed by a large multidisciplinary judging panel, with oversight from the Independent Awards Standards Council.

The British Skin Foundation is the 2026 Charity Partner, Church Pharmacy is Photobooth Sponsor, The Tweakments Guide joins as Consumer Media Partner and the Cosmetic Medicine Awards as Aesthetics Awards Strategic Partner.

Shannon Kilgariff, editor and event director at Aesthetics, commented, “Our Finalists this year truly represent the dynamic and evolving nature of medical aesthetics. It’s encouraging to see such a strong commitment to patient safety and innovation across all entries. The Awards continue to play a vital role in highlighting those who are not just advancing the field, but also setting the highest standards of care and professionalism.”

Vital Statistics Out of 1,000 UK women, a third admitted to skipping an evening skincare routine, while nearly a quarter do not use a daily facial moisturiser (Hada Labo Tokyo, 2025)

Consumers are cutting back, with 56% of 3,000 respondents reducing everyday spending and 38% delaying major purchases (KPMG, 2025)

Among 1,993 UK adults, 70% believe cosmetic treatments can become addictive, and only 17% say they are more trusting of the safety than they used to be (YouGov, 2025)

Discover your Finalists on p.39

Out of 1,300 women over the age of 35, 70% believe ageing is less about ‘looking perfect’ and more about ‘feeling good’ and ‘living well’

Patient Views

Cross-party Committee requests patient feedback on aesthetic treatments MPs on the Science, Innovation and Technology Committee have launched an enquiry into the use and risks of beauty products and treatments in the UK. The enquiry will take place via a survey following studies almost exclusively from the US as well as studies from the British Dietetic Association (BDA) and Cancer Research. The findings highlighted concerns regarding the current scientific evidence base and regulation, as well as the required training and qualifications of specialists performing treatments in the UK. The Committee shares that it will be investigating the regulation of these products and the harm caused and is particularly interested in individuals lived experiences. In light of aesthetic treatments being categorised under “beauty,” members of the specialty have expressed concern that this classification undermines the role of aesthetics.

(Absolute Collagen, 2025)

A study of 1,000 participants revealed that 53.3% were concerned about the current regulation of cosmetic surgery in the UK (Cadogan Clinic, 2025)

The British College of Aesthetic Medicine’s (BCAMs) chief operating officer, Sadie Van Sanden Cooke, commented, “Classifying medical aesthetics as ‘beauty’ overlooks the clinical expertise, medical training and patient-safety standards at the heart of our specialty.” A spokesperson for the committee responded saying, “Our team has not come across the distinction between ‘beauty treatments’ and ‘aesthetic medicine’ during our research and unfortunately cannot make changes to the survey.”

Aesthetics | January 2026

Hair transplants are among the most searched for treatment in the UK, with data highlighting 237,000 monthly searches (Fresha, 2025)

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Events diary 29th-31st January 2026 IMCAS World Congress 5th February 2026 Future Patient Congress 6th February 2026 Menopause in Practice 13th-14th March 2026 Aesthetics Conference & Exhibition (ACE) 14th March 2026 The Aesthetics Awards 1st-2nd October 2026 Clinical Cosmetic Regenerative (CCR) Congress

IN T H E M E D I A What’s trending in the consumer press

Surgeons urge caution amid rising facelift trend in younger patients ITV’s This Morning spoke with 28-year-old Jade Mandongwe who went overseas for a mid-facelift to feel ‘rejuvenated.’ Plastic surgeon Mr William Townley noted that while reconstructive facelifts for conditions like facial palsy are appropriate for younger patients, facelifts are generally not recommended before ages 45 to 55. “I think you must be very careful when following beauty trends, because what might be a trend today may not be tomorrow, but surgery is permanent and it’s irreversible,” he said.

Dr Steven Land discusses changing landscape of dermal filler Appearing on the Inside Aesthetics podcast, aesthetic practitioner Dr Steven Land joined cohosts Dr Jake Sloane, aesthetic practitioner, and aesthetic business coach David Segal to discuss the changing landscape of dermal filler within the specialty.

Dr Land explained that patients are increasingly opting for biostimulatory and bioregenerative treatments, and drifting away from traditional dermal fillers, adding, “From a clinic owner perspective, we’re witnessing slightly less dermal filler treatments, but we’re delivering significantly more skin boosters, polynucleotides, energy-based devices and skincare.”

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Cellular Ageing

Research shows pregnancy accelerates biological age A prospective study has found that pregnancy can accelerate epigenetic ageing in women by up to 5.3 years.

The study, published in Obstetrics and Gynaecology and conducted by Dr Danielle Panelli et al, recruited 75 nulliparous women aged 18 to 50 who sought obstetric (10-14 weeks’ pregnant) or gynaecologic (non-pregnant) care between 2020 and 2021. Of the 75 women enrolled, 45 (60%) were pregnant. By the end of the study, 61 participants (81.3%) completed all follow-up assessments. Researchers used 11 established epigenetic “clocks” to measure biological age based on molecular markers. These tools allowed the team to track within-person changes in epigenetic age over time, adjusting for confounding factors such as chronological age and body mass index (BMI). The results revealed significant epigenetic age acceleration among pregnant women compared to their nonpregnant counterparts. Specifically, six of the clocks – including Hannum, PhenoAge, GrimAge, and DunedinPACE – showed notable increases. For example, over approximately 200 days, pregnant women’s biological age increased by 1.58 years according to the Hannum clock and by as much as 5.28 years per the PhenoAge clock.

The study also linked accelerated biological ageing in early pregnancy to a higher risk of immune-related pregnancy complications, such as hypertensive disorders, gestational diabetes, preterm birth and small-for-gestational age babies.

Dr Panelli et al commented, “Our results suggest that biological ageing may serve as a useful metric to objectively measure how pregnancy can serve as a window to future health, since we know that people who develop gestational diabetes and hypertensive disorders can be at increased risk for these health conditions later in life.”

Parliamentary Discussion

BAMAN representatives appear at Scottish Parliament Representatives from the British Association of Medical Aesthetic Nurses (BAMAN) gave evidence to the Scottish Parliament’s Health, Social Care and Sport Committee on December 9.

During a session examining the regulation of non-surgical cosmetic procedures, nurse prescriber and board member Amanda Demosthenous and Jacqueline Cooney, BAMAN regional leader for West Scotland who attended in her capacity as director of the Scottish Medical Aesthetic Surgery Group (SMASG), collectively highlighted the need for strong clinical oversight and robust regulation to safeguard patient safety within medical aesthetics. They were joined by Paula McLaren, senior advisor for Advanced Practice at the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), who has maintained ongoing engagement with BAMAN, including contributing to the association’s Autumn Aesthetic Conference.

The session followed the introduction of the Non-Surgical Procedures Bill to the Scottish Parliament in October 2025, which aims to ensure that non-surgical cosmetic procedures are delivered safely, hygienically and within an appropriate regulatory framework. The Bill also seeks to address concerns around the potential physical and psychological harm these procedures may pose to children and young people.

Demosthenous said, “I was clear that patient safety in medical aesthetics depends on strong clinical oversight, proportionate regulation and recognition of the advanced practice nurses already delivering safe, ethical care. Nurses are already operating within robust governance frameworks, and effective regulation must build on this clinical leadership to enhance patient safety and public trust.”

Aesthetics | January 2026

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Biostimulation

Galderma receives EU certification of Sculptra for body indications Pharmaceutical company Galderma has announced the certification of Sculptra for body indications in the European Union (EU).

The company shares that this certification under the EU Medical Device Regulation (MDR) expands Sculptra’s current clinical use on the face, to include the gluteal area, posterior thighs, décolletage and upper arms.

Following research, the company reported strong outcomes across treatment areas. In the thighs, patients showed visible improvement, with 93% of the 29 patients in the study reporting reduced sagginess. In the décolletage, 13% of the 30 patients involved saw a reduction in wrinkling by the first month, increasing to 93% with visibly decreased wrinkle severity by the ninth month. For the upper arms, the five participants involved saw improvements in skin firmness and overall quality two months after completing a three-session treatment. In the buttocks, 84% of the 30 patients were rated as having “improved” or more by physicians using the Global Assessment of the five participants involved Scale at six months and 96% reported high satisfaction.

Flemming Ørnskov, CEO at Galderma, said, “With these new body indications extending Sculptra’s trusted profile beyond the face, we are empowering practitioners to deliver natural-looking, long-lasting results across broader treatment areas, reinforcing Galderma’s commitment to innovation and holistic patient care.”

Galderma will be at the Aesthetics Conference & Exhibition on March 13-14.

Leadership

JCCP announces the retirement of Professor David Sines The Joint Council for Cosmetic Practitioners (JCCP) has confirmed Professor David Sines will step down as its independent executive chair when his second term concludes in February 2026.

The organisation shares that over the past decade, Professor Sines has collaborated with Parliamentarians, Government officials, regulators, influencers and sector stakeholders to help shape the proposed UK aesthetics regulatory and licensing framework. The JCCP explains that after his appointment in January 2016 as the founding independent executive chair and registrar, Professor Sines assumed the role following a two-year appointment with Health Education England. During this period he led the national review of education and training standards for the non-surgical aesthetics sector on behalf of Sir Bruce Keogh, then chief medical officer at the Department of Health, according to the JCCP. Professor Sines commented, “It has been a great honour to lead the JCCP over the past decade. I believe we stand on the threshold of an important breakthrough with the development of a new regulation and licensing scheme for the non-surgical cosmetic sector in the UK. I believe that after two lengthy terms as executive chair and registrar, it is the right time to hand over the leadership of the JCCP.” The JCCP has also announced Professor Bob Khanna as its latest key opinion leader (KOL). According to the JCCP, Professor Khanna’s role as a KOL will aim to support the organisation’s mission to uphold public safety, ethical practice and clinical excellence within aesthetics.

BAMAN UPDATES A round-up of the latest news and events from the British Association of Medical Aesthetic Nurses

UPCOMING BAMAN EVENTS 2026 Happy New Year everyone!

With a new year comes a new calendar of BAMAN events. With insightful speakers, live demonstrations, real-life case studies and optional basic life support, these meetings deliver reliable and relevant updates tailored to each region. They also provide valuable opportunities to connect with fellow nurses and ensure your practice aligns with the BAMAN standard.

This year we’re working even more closely with our regional leaders and the Education & Training Committee to shape each agenda around the specific needs and priorities of your area.

If there’s a topic or speaker you’d like to see included, or you’d like to feature, we’d love to hear from you!

REGIONAL MEETINGS 2026 Starting in the South East, our first event will take place in Kent on January 26. A month later, we’ll head to the East of England for Hinxton on February 23, followed closely by a meeting in Windsor on February 25.

March is a busy month, with several locations in the diary. We begin in the North West in Chester on March 2, then move to the South Coast for Southampton on March 6, before heading back North to Leeds on March 9. The last two events in March will be in Edinburgh on March 23 and the South Coast on March 25.

In April, we will be in Devon on April 20, followed

by Northern Ireland, Belfast on April 25. May also includes a visit to South Wales, as BAMAN will be in Cardiff on May 15.

Finally, in June, we will hold a meeting in Solihull on June 4, before wrapping up the BAMAN events with our final session in London at Barbican on June 25.

BAMAN will be at the Aesthetics Conference & Exhibition on March 13-14.

This column is written and supported by BAMAN

The JCCP will be at the Aesthetics Conference & Exhibition on March 13-14.

Aesthetics | January 2026

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Digital Directory

Online marketplace MARBL launches A new online marketplace for medical aesthetics named MARBL has launched nationwide in the UK.

Event Spotlight: The Aesthetics Business Blueprint Discover the two-hour masterclass at ACE 2026 designed to transform how clinics operate This year at the Aesthetics Conference & Exhibition (ACE), clinic owners, managers and practitioners can benefit from a brand-new two-hour business masterclass designed to strengthen every part of their clinic’s operations. The Aesthetics Business Blueprint, chaired by digital strategist Rick O’Neill, brings together six leading experts across practice management, cyber security, sales, lead conversion and marketing for a high-energy, content-rich session.

Sessions include: Optimising operations Practice consultant Natalie Dryden will outline the systems, processes and staff behaviours that underpin high-performing clinics, helping delegates assess where their own operations may need strengthening.

Protecting your business Cyber crime expert Kenny Thomson will provide a clear, accessible briefing on the growing digital threats targeting aesthetic practices and key steps to safeguard data, finances and reputation.

Improving sales Sales trainer Vanessa Bird will explore patient decision-making and ethical selling techniques, while lead management specialist Adam Smith guides clinics through the first 30 minutes after an enquiry to help increase conversions.

Driving digital growth Digital marketing experts Nick Cooling-McClagish and Rick O’Neill will share the channels, metrics and strategies that deliver the strongest results for clinics.

Register now Delegates will leave with practical frameworks, scripts, KPIs and a guided 90-day plan, ensuring they can turn insight into real, measurable improvements back in clinic.

Scan the QR code to register for ACE 2026 and expand your business knowledge

According to the company, the platform connects patients with qualified aesthetic practitioners by bringing together publicly available clinic information and applying transparent inclusion criteria. The platform offers access to treatment categories including injectables, skin rejuvenation, hair restoration, medical weight management and sexual wellness, connecting patients with clinicians and clinics.

Shirin Krall, CEO of MARBL, said, “Choosing a clinic can be overwhelming for patients. MARBL makes that process clearer and more informed, while giving clinics greater visibility and recognition for the care they deliver.”

Trend Report

Allergan faculty releases treatment trends report A panel of aesthetic practitioners from Allergan Aesthetics’, an AbbVie company, specialist faculty has identified several key trends expected to shape clinical practice in 2026.

Aesthetic nurse prescriber Natalie Haswell highlighted that patients are seeking “safe products with longevity, delivered with skill and not following trends.” She added that dermal fillers are regaining prominence when used as part of a “multi layered approach” to achieve natural, structural results. Aesthetic practitioner Dr Nestor Demosthenous noted a broader shift towards patient-centred care, integrating skin health, preventative approaches and emotional wellbeing alongside aesthetic outcomes.

Aesthetic practitioner Dr Jonquille Chantrey pointed to rising interest in regenerative techniques, as well as increased awareness of the aesthetic impact of GLP-1 medications.

The faculty members also reported that patient requests focused on refreshed, balanced outcomes and long-term skin quality, rather than overt aesthetic change, a trend expected to continue into 2026.

Allergan is the Headline Sponsor of the Aesthetics Conference & Exhibition on March 13-14.

Body Device

Alma introduces Alma PrimeX Aesthetic device company Alma has announced the launch of ultrasound and radiofrequency (RF) platform Alma PrimeX. Aiming to support body contouring and skin-tightening treatments, Alma shares that the device combines ultrasound and RF technologies. The ultrasound component is intended to target adipose tissue with directed waves to reduce fat volume and circumference across larger areas. The RF delivers uniform thermal energy to stimulate collagen remodelling, tighten lax skin and enhance elasticity, according to the company. Kamran Shibli, general manager at Alma UK&I, commented, “The GLP-1 era is reshaping aesthetics.

Patients are losing weight, and they expect their skin and body to reflect the effort. Alma provides the solutions to meet this need, IQ helps you assess them and Alma PrimeX helps improve skin quality.”

Alma will be at the Aesthetics Conference & Exhibition on March 13-14.

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Aesthetics | January 2026

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Collaboration

Insider News

Microneedling

Laboratoires FILLMED partners with Aesthetic Intelligence Medical aesthetics company Laboratoires FILLMED has announced professional alliance with medical aesthetics training academy Aesthetic Intelligence.

According to Laboratories FILLMED the partnership highlights a shared commitment to provide medical education alongside safe and ethical practice. Laboratories FILLMED has also announced that it will be supplying Aesthetic Intelligence with products from its collection of ART FILLER hyaluronic acid based fillers that have been developed using Tri-Hyal technology.

Scott Julian, Laboratoires FILLMED business unit director for UK&I, commented, “We’re thrilled to be partnering with the team at Aesthetic Intelligence. Together we will continue to ensure that practitioners have access to the very best the UK medical aesthetics specialty has to offer in terms of cutting-edge science and world-class training.”

FILLMED will be at the Aesthetics Conference & Exhibition on March 13-14.

mesoestetic unveils microneedling device Aesthetic manufacturer mesoestetic has introduced its new microneedling device Axion.

Designed to enhance procedural precision, performance and patient comfort, Axion aims to support consistent and reproducible microneedling treatments. mesoestetic shares that the device features an automated dosing system for uniform needle penetration and product delivery, while interchangeable needle heads enable tailored applications.

Additionally, the company notes that an integrated red light-emitting diode (LED) light aims to promote skin regeneration, and the user‑centred design ensures comfort and ease of use during procedures.

Stephen Schofield, commercial director at mesoestetic UK, commented, “Axion has been engineered with both the practitioner and the patient in mind. By combining precision dosing, advanced microneedling technology and integrated regenerative support, we are enabling clinics to achieve consistent, high-quality results while enhancing patient comfort.”

Professional Development

Acquisition Aesthetics launches new training programme Training provider Acquisition Aesthetics has introduced a new programme called Acquisition Elite.

According to co-founder’s consultant plastic surgeon Ms Priyanka Chadha and aesthetic practitioner Dr Lara Watson, Acquisition Elite is an 18-month intensive programme designed for practitioners who would like to evolve from advanced injectors into educators.

Ms Chadha and Dr Watson explain that the programme features academic components including a two-day cadaveric dissection course at the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, certification as a reputable trainer and a core of theoretical modules.

Dr Watson commented, “Acquisition Elite is for those with the aspiration to make a lasting impact on the aesthetics sector as educators, innovators and leaders.”

Skincare Range

Croma Pharma expands skincare line Aesthetic pharmaceutical company Croma Pharma has launched eight new skincare products.

The range includes cleansers, serums, moisturisers and sunscreens designed for normal, combination, oily, sensitive and mature skin.

The company shares that products featured are The Gentle and The Clarifier for cleansing and exfoliation, The Glow and The Awake for brightening and antiageing, The Sophisticated and The

Nomination

BCAM announces new ambassador The British College of Aesthetic Medicine (BCAM) has appointed Professor Sebastian Cotofana as its latest ambassador.

BCAM shares that Professor Cotofana is internationally regarded for his contributions to anatomical research and clinical education. The organisation further explains that Cotofana is a dual PhD graduate in medical sciences and anatomy, and his work aims to define safer, more precise approaches to aesthetic procedures.

Professor Cotofana commented, “I am honoured to have been appointed as ambassador for BCAM. I look forward to supporting the College’s commitment to education and excellence in medical aesthetics.”

BCAM will be at the Aesthetics Conference & Exhibition on March 13-14.

Everyday for hydration, alongside The Sunkissed and The Shield for SPF protection. The formulations contain peptides, ceramides, hyaluronic acid and antioxidant compounds, aiming to enhance skin barrier integrity, hydration and radiance, Croma Pharma shares.

Vikki Baker, European marketing and strategy lead, commented, “We are delighted to announce the launch of the new Croma Pharma skincare range specifically designed to bridge the gap between professional in-clinic treatments and daily at-home skincare. Created to complement existing routines, these products are easy to integrate into any daily regimen.”

Croma will be at the Aesthetics Conference & Exhibition on March 13-14.

Aesthetics | January 2026

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Insider News

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Multi-technology

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System Launch

4T Medical launches new contouring device

New CACI Rejuva Med treatment launches

Aesthetics supplier 4T Medical has introduced a multi-technology device called Apollo Quattro for facial and body contouring.

Skincare solution brand CACI has unveiled a new advanced combination technology called CACI Rejuva Med treatment.

The multi-technology platform is designed to address aesthetic concerns including skin lifting and tightening, facial and neck contouring, body toning and firming, and transdermal delivery of active ingredients to improve hydration and skin tone.

The treatment includes deep cleansing and oxygenation, radiofrequency-based skin firming and tightening, muscle toning and lifting and skin rejuvenation through intense-pulsed light and polydeoxyribonucleotide serum infusion.

Dean Nathanson, managing director at CACI, commented, “This platform has been designed to deliver measurable improvements in skin quality, firmness and facial lifting, all without downtime and with excellent ROI for your practice.”

The company shares that the device uses a multi-layered approach that combines radiofrequency, electrical muscle stimulation and dual electroporation and iontophoresis. 4T Medical explains that by integrating these technologies, the epidermis, dermis and underlying muscles can be targeted to achieve fast and effective results.

Julien Tordjmann, CEO, founder and managing director at 4T Medical, commented, “The Apollo Quattro sets a new standard in non-invasive aesthetic treatments. It allows practitioners to lift, firm and redefine facial and body contours while improving skin elasticity and hydration, all without discomfort or downtime.”

4T Medical will be at the Aesthetics Conference & Exhibition on March 13-14.

Lip Treatment

AlumierMD debuts new lip emulsion

CACI will be at the Aesthetics Conference & Exhibition on March 13-14.

Awards

CMA hosts fourth awards show The Cosmetic Medicine Awards (CMAs) were held at the Culloden Estate, Holywood in Northern Ireland.

The LipBoost is powered by cellfie, a liposomal thyme extract, hyaluronic acid filling spheres, palmitoyl tripeptide-1, vitamin C, vitamin E and avocado oil and squalane, AlumierMD shares.

The organisers shared that the awards ceremony was held to recognise excellence, innovation and significant contributions within the medical aesthetics field, with sponsorship provided by aesthetic device company BTL Aesthetics.

The event featured 25 specialty award categories and was attended by a range of leading specialty figures, including Professor Bob Khanna, nurse prescriber Sharon Bennett, consultant plastic surgeon Mr Dalvi Humzah among others.

Mr Ash Soni, plastic surgeon and AlumierMD global key opinion leader, commented, “There are very few lip products from serious, science-backed brands, and almost none that actually feel good.

Most balms don’t last, so you have to keep reapplying. LipBoost lasts. It helps recovery, strengthens the barrier and gives a noticeable boost in hydration and texture.”

Lesley McGarrity, director of the CMAs, commented, “Aesthetics is a rapidly thriving field in Northern Ireland and we truly have world class clinics, practitioners, companies and products who can now be recognised and celebrated locally. The CMAs provide an excellent networking opportunity, whilst reinforcing excellent standards and regulations for the safety of our patients.”

Skincare company AlumierMD has launched a regenerative peptide emulsion called LipBoost.

The company shares that the product blends peptides, antioxidants and emollients to deliver comfort as well as visible results over time.

This month’s newest clinic openings A round up of the latest aesthetic clinics opening across the UK Aesthetic practitioner Dr Richard Devine opened Devine Clinic London in Cavendish Square on December 4, 2025. The clinic offers a wide range of services including laser and energy-based treatments, injectables and cosmetic

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surgery. Dr Devine shares that the clinic features a variety of technology, including BBL HEROic, MOXI, eCO2 laser resurfacing and PICO laser, alongside skin boosters such as Profhilo and Sunekos.

NHS consultant plastic surgeon Mr Amar Ghattaura has opened AMAR Aesthetics in Penarth, Wales. According

to Mr Ghattaura, the clinic focuses on complex breast reconstruction following cancer treatments, alongside advanced body contouring procedures such as abdominoplasty and liposuction. Mr Ghattaura commented, “We are bringing the highest levels of surgical expertise to the community, making specialised surgical and medical aesthetics treatments accessible close to home.”

If you’re opening a new UK clinic soon, let us know at editorial@aestheticsjournal.com

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Collaboration

Eden Aesthetics announces new distribution partnership Aesthetic distributor Eden Aesthetics has introduced skincare brand Marini SkinSolutions as its exclusive distribution partner.

The company notes that the partnership will take effect on January 1, 2026. Marini SkinSolutions, formerly known as Jan Marini Skin Research, offers a portfolio that includes in-clinic treatment solutions such as chemical peels and post-procedure care, intended to support long-term skin health and complement device-based modalities.

Lindsay Gray, managing director at Eden Aesthetics, commented, “The rebrand brings renewed energy and innovation to an already outstanding range. We look forward to bringing these exceptional products to more clinics and practitioners across the UK.” Conference

Interface Expo Conference commences Medical aesthetics event Interface Expo Conference was held on November 22 at Queen Elizabeth II Centre.

Founded in 2022 by oral and maxillofacial surgery registrar Mr James Olding, The event agenda aimed to combine clinical education, research and live injection demonstrations. With four symposiums throughout the day, the speaker lineup included Joint Council for Cosmetic Practitioners (JCCP) Chair Professor David Sines, along with aesthetic practitioners Dr Sophie Shotter, Dr Priya Verma, Dr Ahmed El Houssieny and Dr Raul Cetto. Sessions covered an update on regulatory structure within the field, needle and cannula innovations and strategies to boost clinic growth. The final session concluded with a panel discussion involving aesthetic practitioners Dr Jordan Faulkner, Dr Yousrah Ahmed and Dr Raquel Amado, nurse prescriber Julie Scott and senior plastic surgery registrar Mr Yasser Al-Omran.

Mr Olding commented, “Delivering live demonstrations on the art and science of injecting to more than 300 engaged attendees, hosting open-stage discussions with leading practitioners and offering networking sessions with specialty giants, Interface Expo continues to redefine how the aesthetics field connects in an innovative and collaborative way.”

Interface will be at the Aesthetics Conference & Exhibition on March 13-14.

On The Scene

Lynton Lasers debuts the RedTouch PRO Aesthetics joined aesthetic device company Lynton Lasers at Tower Bridge for the launch party of the RedTouch PRO. The event was hosted by Lynton Laser’s managing director Dr Jon Exley and Paolo Salvadeo, CEO of DEKA, the manufacturer of the new laser. The evening brought together the first cohort of clinicians using the technology. This included aesthetic practitioners Dr Marwa Ali, Dr Ariel Haus and Dr Aggie Zatonska, plus more than 90 practitioners, clinic owners and guests.

Dr Exley commented, “The response from practitioners and clinic leaders confirmed the scale of opportunity this platform presents. Our partnership with DEKA continues to drive innovation in this space, and the phased rollout now underway will focus on giving clinics the training, education and integration support needed to maximise success.”

News in Brief Personalised mentoring initiative debuts Clinic managing director Yogeeta Bawa has established a personalised mentorship business called The Invisible Business Partner (TIBP) for medical professionals looking to scale their business. TIBP offers 1-2-1 strategic partnership and on top of structured modules, practical frameworks and expert guidance. Bawa commented, “Clinic ownership can feel overwhelming and isolating. TIBP offers personalised support, structure and confidence.”

Second-opinion service for treatments launches Aesthetic practitioner Dr Bhavjit Kaur has established the Medical and Surgical Aesthetics Second Opinion Service in collaboration with Professor Alwyn D'Souza to address growing concerns around misinformation, complications and inconsistent standards within aesthetics.

According to the company, MSASOS provides unbiased, medical advice for anyone considering a cosmetic procedure.

Dr Kaur commented, “Patients often feel unsure, pressured or unsupported when navigating the aesthetics landscape. This service exists to give patients anywhere in the UK or abroad access to independent clinical clarity.”

Dr Patrick Treacy publishes new book Aesthetic practitioner Dr Patrick Treacy has announced the release of his new publication Q&A in Regenerative Medicine.

The book is designed to provide an accessible, authoritative exploration of the scientific breakthroughs redefining how we heal, regenerate and extend human health, according to Dr Treacy.

The publication features several topics, including stem-cell signalling, exosomes and photobiomodulation.

GetHarley announces updated size of Synergy 6 SPF 50 Skincare platform GetHarley has partnered with global distribution company Circa Skin to offer GetHarley practitioners’ a 75ml bottle of Intradermology Synergy 6 NX-Gen SPF 50 for their patients. Originally a 50ml size, Synergy 6 SPF50 provides protection against harmful effects of the sun, pollution, infrared radiation and blue light, developed with antioxidants and peptides to improve skin barrier function and skin health.

Lynton will be at the Aesthetics Conference & Exhibition on March 13-14.

Aesthetics | January 2026

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Early Skin Cancer Detection in Aesthetics Aesthetics examines skin cancer discovery opportunities in aesthetic clinics A UK-wide survey has been launched to gather evidence that will inform the development of a new nurse-led model of care for skin cancer services across the UK.1 While the research is focused on designing NHS-led clinics in England, nurses have been questioned across all sectors.

Aesthetic nurse practitioner Leila Kattach, chair of the skin cancer subgroup for the British Dermatological Nursing Group (BDNG) and research lead for the British Association of Skin Cancer Specialist Nurses (BASCSN), has instigated the Nurse Questionnaire Survey on Skin Cancer Care 2025. The aim is to understand existing nurse-led models and develop a patient-centred model that is accessible, viable and accepted by the sector – while strengthening the role of nurses.2 The survey findings will be used to inform updates to the national BDNG Skin Cancer Competency Framework, a structured guideline defining the knowledge, skills and competencies required for nurses working in skin cancer care.3 While the survey predominantly focuses on nurses working within skin cancer services, it highlights the growing need to expand the workforce by identifying areas where members of the medical community can broaden aspects of their roles to include elements of skin cancer care. Kattach notes that aesthetic practitioners occupy a privileged position, enabling them to observe patients’ skin regularly and at close range, thus being able to support early detection and prevention efforts in parallel with NHS skin cancer services.

The burden of skin cancer care There are 17,500 new cases of melanoma skin cancer every year.4 However, the UK has a limited supply of consultant dermatologists to handle these cases, as consultant dermatologist Dr Derrick Phillips explains, "For a population approaching 70 million, we have roughly 700 to 800 practising consultant dermatologists."

However, in the UK there is variation in how skin cancer units utilise the skills of specialist nurses.5 While dermatology nursing is a highly advanced field, with some practitioners opting to complete a masters of science in dermatology, Kattach explains that practices vary between organisations and aspects

of knowledge transfer happen informally through peer-to-peer conversations. “I want to understand who is doing what, and where. For instance, there are nurses in England working in some services with no substantive dermatology consultant and are likely operating with a high degree of independence,” says Kattach.

Early detection opportunities in aesthetics Kattach believes there is opportunities for nurses working in medical aesthetic clinics to align their practice with elements of skin cancer care – particularly around being able to recognise suspicious lesions, offering prevention advice and making timely referrals. Kattach explains that conversations can motivate patients to check their skin and seek professional guidance.

A research project in the US demonstrated that implementing melanoma risk screening questionnaires in a medical aesthetic practice could help identify at risk patients and trigger referrals.6 In one pilot, 26% of 211 patients were classified as at risk for melanoma through this approach.6 While dermoscopy takes years of training and is not a necessary skill for non-specialists, Dr Phillips supports the view that all practitioners in medical aesthetic clinics who are treating skin should receive education on skin cancer, saying, “Aesthetic practitioners should receive basic training on how to identify basal cell carcinomas, squamous cell carcinomas and melanomas, as they are well placed to identify suspicious lesions at an early stage given how regularly they assess the skin.”

However, Dr Phillips also highlights existing knowledge gaps within the specialty.

He explains, “Dysplastic lesions such as actinic keratoses are often misdiagnosed by aesthetics practitioners and treated as redness or rosacea. This reflects a knowledge and skill gap that can be addressed with better education.”

Kattach signposts aesthetic practitioners to providers such as skin cancer charity Skcin which organises courses that help practitioners build a basic understanding of skin cancer red flags, enabling practitioners to identify concerning lesions and refer patients appropriately.7 While Dr Phillips does support aesthetic practitioners maintaining a clinical eye and Aesthetics | January 2026

News Special Skin Cancer Care referring anything that is suspicious to GPs or dermatologists, he does not support aesthetic practitioners offering skin cancer screening and removal, unless they are qualified consultant dermatologists and plastic surgeons with appropriate expertise.

Tania von Hospenthal, director of Transformation and Quality Improvement at the British Association of Dermatologists (BAD), states that any clinician diagnosing skin cancer must be trained in skin disease recognition and dermoscopy, and those performing surgery must be trained in appropriate surgical techniques.

Dermatology consultants are fully trained to manage skin cancer, while Mohs surgeons require post-certificate of completion of training (CCT) fellowship training. Specialty doctors, locums, General Practitioners with Extended Roles (GPwERs), and nurse specialists involved in skin cancer care must demonstrate accredited competencies under recognised BAD, Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP) or BDNG frameworks and work strictly within their approved scope, which is assessed by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

Dr Phillips advises that practitioners who identify concerning lesions should refer patients via the urgent skin cancer pathway for specialist review, which typically takes place within two weeks. He explains, "This pathway functions well and prevents NHS dermatology departments from being overwhelmed with non-standardised referrals from multiple sources. I would strongly encourage practitioners to continue utilising the established GP–NHS dermatology pathway.”

Practical steps While the findings from the survey will not be available until late 2026, aesthetic practitioners can embed elements of skin cancer awareness into their everyday appointment practices. Consultations can be used to ask holistic questions about patients’ SPF use and any skin changes they may be concerned about, which Kattach believes can act as check in points.

At these opportunities, practitioners can encourage patients to consult their GP or consultant dermatologist for further guidance. Overall, the practitioners agree that for aesthetic practitioners, it is not about becoming skin cancer screening services, but about making every contact count – recognising red flags, reinforcing prevention and ensuring patients are directed swiftly into established NHS pathways when needed.

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Event Preview ACE 2026

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Choose Your Networking Journey Your personal guide to networking, connection and career growth at ACE 2026

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Aesthetics | January 2026

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For many practitioners who attend the UK’s leading medical aesthetics event, networking is where the real learning happens. With curated routes, dedicated social spaces, The Aesthetics Awards Finalist celebrations and opportunities for mentorship, the Aesthetics Conference & Exhibition (ACE) gives you the freedom to shape your own journey through the specialty. Whether you prefer purposeful one-to-ones, organic conversations or speaker connections, there’s a networking path designed for you.

Below, you can choose the approach that best matches your personality and professional goals – and discover the moments you won’t want to miss.

If you’re a socialiser…

ACE Networking Drinks at 5pm on Day 1 If conversation fuels you and you’re happiest in a buzzing, lively atmosphere, you will thrive at the official networking drinks reception sponsored by Dermapenworld.

On Day 1, join your peers between 5-7pm for drinks and music – the perfect place to unwind while meeting practitioners and brands in a relaxed setting.

If you’re a business strategist…

Head to the In Practice Zone Drinks at 4pm on Day 1 The In Practice Zone is where business meets aesthetics. Across two days, it will host educational conference sessions covering clinic growth, marketing, finance, operations and more – followed by a dedicated networking drinks reception.

It’s your chance to mingle with experts, consultants and fellow clinic owners in a space focused entirely on business success.

If you’re a growth seeker…

Aesthetics Mentoring across both days You’re hungry to upskill, refine your practice and learn from the best. Aesthetics Mentoring offers structured opportunities to connect with leading practitioners across multiple disciplines. These aren’t casual conversations – they’re guided, purposeful interactions designed to help you elevate your clinical, business or professional development path. You can speed date this year’s mentors at the Aesthetics

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Event Preview ACE 2026

Mentoring Zone, supported by Allergan Aesthetics, an AbbVie company.

If you’re all of the above…

If you’re a go-getter…

You’re the kind of practitioner who learns by experiencing, discovering and doing – so the Networking Trail, sponsored by Dermapenworld, is your ideal starting point.

This curated route guides you through interactive activities, on-stand experiences and connection points with leading brands, associations and fellow practitioners. Think of it as a choose-your-own-adventure for medical aesthetics growth: every stop gives you something hands-on to try, someone new to meet or a fresh idea to take back to clinic.

Visit the Aesthetics Lounge and meet the team You’re driven, focused and ready to elevate your presence within the specialty. For you, the Aesthetics Lounge is the place where doors open.

Here, you can meet the Aesthetics Journal team, learn how to contribute editorial content, explore features you could be involved in, discuss speaking opportunities or find out how to raise your profile through our events ACE and the Clinical Cosmetic Regenerative Congress (CCR).

If visibility, influence and integration are on your to-do list, this is for you.

If you’re a speaker, press or VIP...

Head to the VIP Networking Lounge This elevated space allows for focused conversations, introductions and deeper discussions away from the exhibition floor.

Whether you’re making strategic business decisions, exploring partnerships or seeking meaningful expert insight, this environment provides the privacy and professionalism you need.

The VIP Lounge is by invitation only.

If you’re a celebrator…

Attend The Aesthetics Awards at The Hilton, Park Lane Once the second day of ACE winds down and the evening unfolds, step into the glamour of The Aesthetics Awards – the biggest celebration in the aesthetics calendar. Expect drinks, dinner and dancing alongside leaders, innovators and rising stars.

For those who use events to spot rising talent, emerging approaches and standout products, this celebration becomes a valuable moment to gather insight and connect with your peers.

You can purchase tickets now on The Aesthetics Awards website.

Register free for ACE

Aesthetics | January 2026

Try the ACE Networking Trail

It’s an effortlessly structured way to break the ice, discover innovations and let relationships form naturally through shared experiences.

ACE is built to be flexible – so take advantage of every opportunity that aligns with your goals.

My top tips for maximising networking at ACE 1. Arrive with a mission Set three goals before you enter the venue. Whether that’s meeting potential suppliers, finding a mentor, exploring new partnerships or connecting with a colleague.

2. Perfect a simple opener A confident “Hi, I’m XX, what brings you to ACE this year?” or “What new products are you most excited about for 2026?” works every time.

3. Utilise the structured moments The Networking Trail and drinks events are intentionally designed to make conversations easier.

4. Leave space for serendipity Some of your best encounters will happen unplanned. Be open and ready to meet new people – leave time for the unexpected.

5. Follow up within 48 hours Make sure to get contact details from anyone you connect with, and send a short message referencing your conversation.

*AbbVie has part-sponsored this event, including provision of a stand and/or a speaker programme/medical symposium. AbbVie has had no influence over the content or topics covered in other parts of the agenda.

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Achieving Facial Rejuvenation Through Collagen Biostimulants Practitioners consider collagen biostimulating injectables and their expanding role in skin rejuvenation Biostimulating injectables are advanced aesthetic agents, designed to enhance facial rejuvenation by stimulating the skin’s intrinsic regenerative processes, particularly collagen, elastin and extracellular matrix (ECM) production.1 Unlike hyaluronic acid (HA) dermal fillers that provide immediate volumisation, collagen biostimulants promote progressive, biologically driven improvements in skin density, texture, hydration and elasticity.2,3 Common collagen biostimulating materials, such as poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) and polycaprolactone (PCL), stimulate fibroblast activity and promote dermal remodelling, resulting in natural-appearing rejuvenation outcomes.4 While all biostimulants promote tissue regeneration, their mechanisms differ; polynucleotides (PNs) and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) provide growth factors and nucleotides to support cellular repair, whereas PLLA and CaHA primarily act as collagen stimulators, gradually enhancing dermal structure and skin quality.5,6 These treatments are increasingly used in modern medical aesthetics to address fine lines, skin laxity and overall skin quality enhancement through minimally invasive methods, with adverse effects typically mild and short-lived.2,7 A systematic review and meta-analysis published in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal evaluated 25 studies on commonly used biostimulants – including PLLA, CaHA and PCL – and reported a pooled patient satisfaction rate of 91% with low overall adverse-event frequencies.8 In this feature, aesthetic practitioner and dentist Dr MJ Rowland-Warmann, and aesthetic practitioners Dr Apul Parikh and Dr Sabika Karim explore the use of collagen biostimulants for facial rejuvenation, outline the key considerations in determining patient suitability and examine how collagen biostimulants may be effectively combined with other aesthetic treatments.

Common skin concerns Dr Rowland-Warmann observes that in clinic, patients frequently present with dullness, fine lines, reduced radiance and increasing laxity – changes that reflect progressive alterations in dermal structure and function. She notes that around the peri- and post-menopausal stages, skin quality often declines further due to reductions in collagen, elastin and hydration.9 Dr Rowland-Warmann explains, “Collagen synthesis decreases by roughly 1% per year from the mid-20s and accelerates after menopause with falling oestrogen levels, resulting in dermal thinning, diminished tensile strength and impaired repair. Collagen biostimulants counter these deficits by inducing neocollagenesis and neoelastogenesis.”10 Reinforcing the structural focus of these treatments, Dr Karim identifies skin roughness and early to moderate sagging as common clinical indicators of compromised dermal support.

She adds, “Biostimulation is also an excellent proactive ageing strategy, supporting ‘collagen banking’ and the long-term maintenance of skin quality.”11

Assessing patient suitability When assessing patient suitability, Dr Parikh emphasises that chronological age alone is a poor predictor of skin condition. Instead, factors such as genetics, lifestyle and cumulative sun exposure play a far greater role. “You may see patients in their 40s who exercise, use good skincare, avoid sun exposure and maintain a healthy diet, presenting with strong skin quality. Conversely, patients in their late 20s or early 30s who smoke, sunbathe heavily and have poor diets often show significant damage,” he explains.

Additionally, Dr Parikh highlights the importance of assessing skin quality when considering collagen biostimulant treatment for facial rejuvenation. He notes that features such as static lines, dryness and a perceptibly thinner skin texture are key indicators that a patient may benefit from this approach. Referencing the pull test, he elaborates, “When assessing the skin, it may appear drier, and on palpation you’ll notice reduced strength and turgor. As you gently pull the skin, it stretches more easily, reflecting diminished collagen and elastin within the tissues.”12,13 Aesthetics | January 2026

Special Feature Collagen Biostimulants While it can be difficult to define a precise age threshold, Dr Parikh suggests that from the mid-30s onwards, collagen biostimulating treatments often become increasingly relevant in clinical practice.

Reflecting broader aesthetic trends, he also notes a growing number of male patients seeking collagen biostimulating therapies.

Objective assessment plays a central role in determining suitability.

Dr Rowland-Warmann describes evaluating the skin surface, pigmentation and wrinkles using the Glogau scale – which assesses the severity of photoaged skin based on visible wrinkles and overall skin quality – and performing the pinch and push tests.12,13 Dr Rowland-Warmann also highlights the value of collagen biostimulants in patients experiencing rapid weight loss, noting that these treatments can be safely administered alongside GLP-1 medication. She elaborates that in such cases, treatment planning should prioritise patients at risk of significant deflation, using collagen biostimulants – and where appropriate, HA dermal fillers – to help maintain facial volume. This is further supported by a multicentre, open label study of 41 subjects, which found that a combined regimen of PLLA and HA mid-face dermal fillers provided safe and sustained improvements in facial contour, balance and skin quality in patients with facial volume loss after GLP-1 receptor agonist-induced weight loss.14 “These patients often experience deflation and reduced structural support. Proactive treatment with collagen biostimulators helps maintain facial integrity and supports their new healthy identity,” she explains.

Additionally, Dr Rowland-Warmann highlights that long-term smokers often experience reduced efficacy from collagen biostimulants, highlighting, “The consequence of smoking means collagen is significantly depleted and fibroblast function is reduced.”15 She also emphasises the relevance of hormonal status in menopausal patients, noting, “Women on hormonal replacement therapy (HRT) show around 10% greater skin thickness due to increased dermal collagen and connective tissue.16 This is clinically relevant, as collagen biostimulators depend on functional fibroblasts, so outcomes are typically more predictable in hormonally supported patients than in those who are hormonally depleted.”16 23

Special Feature Collagen Biostimulants When assessing patient suitability and unsuitability, Dr Karim notes that all patients are required to complete an Aesthetic Anxiety Inventory questionnaire and are evaluated by a qualified practitioner. She explains that since the outcomes of biostimulatory treatments are significantly influenced by systemic health, her practice also integrates lifestyle and wellness guidance, including hormone optimisation and general health counselling. She says, “Smokers or individuals with excessive sun exposure may experience more modest results,” adding, “Patients undergoing weight loss with GLP-1 agonists who are malnourished or have insufficient protein intake are also likely to see reduced outcomes.”

When performing biostimulatory treatments, the practitioners advise investing in good quality before-and-after imaging capabilities that can track facial structures, skin quality and volumetric change over time. Dr Karim shares her use of the Aura 3D system, saying, “This approach enables us to establish baseline skin health, track progress objectively and ensure that treatment planning is tailored and measurable – not only through visible improvement, but also through quantifiable biomarkers of skin quality.”17

Product selection Common collagen biostimulating injectables on the market include Ellansé, JULÄINE, HArmonyCa, Radiesse and Sculptra, which stimulate neocollagenesis and gradually improve skin quality, elasticity and facial volume.1 The three practitioners below discuss their preferred collagen biostimulant and the reasons for their choice.1 Dr Rowland-Warmann identifies Sculptra as her collagen biostimulant of choice, referring to it as a “well-established PLLA agent,” suitable for patients with thin, dull skin. Highlighting its 25 years of clinical use, she explains, “PLLA-based particles induce a controlled inflammatory response, prompting fibroblasts to generate new collagen over several months. I am guided by the durability and quality of these outcomes.”18 Dr Parikh has used HArmonyCa in his practice for the last five years, highlighting research documenting quantifiable collagen production, including ultrasound-verified increases in dermal thickness.19 While he also recognises the established role of CaHA and its collagen-inducing properties, he 24

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emphasises that HArmonyCa’s inclusion of HA provides the added benefit of immediate hydration and a gentle lifting effect.20 “For me, the evidence-based longevity is what stands out to me,” Dr Parikh states.

Dr Karim shares that her choice of collagen biostimulant is PLLA-based product JULÄINE, explaining, “It has a long safety record, and its smooth, densely packed microspheres stimulate long-term collagen in a low-inflammatory way.”21 She elaborates that her product selection is shaped by safety, predictability and the flexibility to tailor treatment, adding, “It provides the ability to customise Before After dosing across multiple facial zones.”

Tailoring treatment plans Dr Rowland-Warmann explains that Sculptra is administered using a cannula, placed immediately under the dermis where fibroblasts reside, allowing for predictable placement Figure 1: Patient before and four months after treatment using and minimal bruising. She HArmonyCa, Skinvive and neurotoxin. Images courtesy of Dr Parikh. notes that for GLP-1 patients – who are at risk of significant weight loss – generally require more Sculptra and possibly additional sessions compared to other patients.22 “A general guideline is one vial of Sculptra per 10 pounds of expected weight loss, adjusted throughout the patient’s weight loss journey,” Dr Rowland-Warmann notes.22 She adds that patients seeking both rejuvenation and contour improvement may benefit from targeted placement along the cheek and lateral face to enhance shape.

Dr Parikh notes that when using his product of choice, HArmonyCa, he employs a 22G cannula, elaborating, “The advantage of a cannula is that with just a few entry points, you can effectively access and treat almost the entire face.” Dr Parikh highlights that cannulas are generally regarded as safer than needles because their blunt design allows them to “usually glide around blood vessels and nerves,” reducing the risk of bruising and vascular occlusion, although rare intravascular cases have been reported.23 In practice, HArmonyCa is supplied in a 1.25ml syringe, with one syringe per side typically sufficient for younger patients with minimal collagen loss.26 He adds that additional syringes may be required in areas such as the jawline, with retreatment usually not needed for 15-18 months.27 Reflecting on individual treatment plans, Dr Parikh states that younger or healthier patients may respond well to a single syringe, while those with more advanced signs of ageing may benefit from a structured treatment plan delivered over several sessions.

Before

After

Figure 2: Patient before and seven months after treatment using three vials of JULÄINE. Images courtesy of Dr Karim.

Aesthetics | January 2026

Dr Karim elaborates on her individualised approach to treatment planning. She notes, “Each plan is fully tailored to the patient. JULÄINE is typically reconstituted with 5ml of bacteriostatic saline, which allows controlled allocation across areas such as the periorbital region, forehead, cheeks, jawline, nasolabial folds, marionette lines, perioral area and the neck.”

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Dr Karim continues to discuss dosage in correlation with age groups, saying, “I rely on internal, off-licence protocols that guide dosing according to age and collagen status. For patients in their late 20s to 30s, I usually administer three vials in a single session for early intervention.” Further outlining her approach, she adds, “In those in their 40s to early 50s, three vials are used for the face, with additional treatment for the neck when indicated. From the late 50s onwards, up to six vials may be required across multiple sessions.”

Before

Special Feature Collagen Biostimulants After

Outlining her use of a 25G or 27G cannula, Dr Karim addresses aspiration, explaining, “Aspiration is not required with JULÄINE, as the technique is retrograde linear threads with a cannula. If I am injecting HA or other gel like substances with a needle I will always aspirate, slowly and steadily and wait to 10 seconds at least prior to injecting.”

Combining collagen biostimulants with other aesthetic treatments

Figure 3: Patient before and 12 months after treatment using a multimodal treatment plan with Sculptra, Restylane Skinboosters and energy-based devices. Images courtesy of Dr Rowland-Warmann.

Reflecting on combination treatments, Dr Rowland-Warmann says the correct treatment stacking can trigger the body’s regenerative potential. She continues, “This means maximising synergy between modalities by targeting different tissues to amplify collagen stimulation for lasting results.” Whilst discussing her use of Sculptra in clinic, she shares her combined approach with Plinest PNs and Restylane Skinboosters to promote comprehensive rejuvenation, noting, “There is no hard and fast rule here,” when discussing the order of treatment stacking. Dr Rowland-Warmann also reflects on volume replacement with collagen biostimulating treatment, highlighting, “Although treatment plans are no longer as HA heavy as they used to be, I still supplement volume with HA injectables from the Restylane portfolio to provide a complete plan to patients.”

Dr Parikh notes that both combination treatments and staggered methods can achieve good outcomes, but he prefers a comprehensive single-session approach – most often treating with HArmonyCa and HA injectable Skinvive on the same day. On Dr Parikh’s preference, combination treatments deliver multiple interventions in a single session for immediate synergistic effect, whereas staggered treatments space interventions over time to allow individual assessment and optimisation.28 He says, “Alongside collagen stimulation with HArmonyCa, Skinvive enhances results by delivering HA into the superficial layers of the skin, providing a significant boost in hydration. Clinical studies show these results can last for up to nine months.”29 Dr Parikh further explains that combining collagen biostimulants with neuromodulators integrates effectively, as the two modalities together help soften crease lines and wrinkles.30 He also highlights the value of combining collagen biostimulants with microneedling, sharing, “You’re stimulating collagen levels, whilst improving pigmentation and scarring.” He clarifies that there is no prescribed order for these treatments. Additionally, Dr Parikh expresses his appreciation for light-emitting diode (LED) therapy following collagen biostimulating treatment, recommending 20-30 minutes of red LED exposure to support collagen and optimise outcomes.31 Dr Karim explains that the most effective facial rejuvenation relies on a multimodal approach, as ageing affects all skin layers and underlying structures. She notes that injectable treatments are now commonly combined with exosome-based therapies and medical-grade skincare to enhance skin health and regeneration.

Elaborating on this combined approach, Dr Karim shares that exosomes are applied topically and never injected, and may be used either before collagen biostimulating treatments or three months afterwards. She continues, “While volume loss from bone resorption and fat-pad depletion can be addressed with HA dermal fillers, skin quality and regeneration are optimised through collagen biostimulants such as PLLA, alongside exosome therapies that support cellular signalling and repair.”32-34 Dr Karim adds that long-term results are best supported by personalised skincare regimens and regular clinical facials.

Analysing the safety of JULÄINE, Dr Karim confirms, “Vascular occlusion with JULÄINE is extremely rare due to its liquid consistency and retrograde linear threading technique. If suspected, injection is stopped immediately and managed with saline flushing, massage, warmth and vasodilatory measures.” She further elaborates that expected side effects include temporary injection-site reactions, while serious complications are uncommon and minimised through careful assessment, appropriate training, sterile technique, correct dilution, anatomical awareness and adherence to scope of practice.

Discussing potential complications, Dr Parikh notes that the primary adverse effect associated with HArmonyCa is bruising, explaining, “It needs to be massaged to smooth it out and prevent lumps from forming.” He further adds that Skinvive presents similarly, with some bruising and occasional minor lumps, which typically resolve within two to five days.

For clinical integration As collagen biostimulating treatments have become more common in clinical practice, it is important for practitioners to consider the factors associated with their use. When combined with other treatment modalities, they may contribute to improved patient outcomes. Their effects are typically subtle

Considering complications In regards to complications, Dr Rowland-Warmann says common side effects include bruising, swelling and bleeding, with infection risk minimised through post-procedure hygiene. She suggests that nodule formation is rare when PLLA is properly prepared, injected and massaged. Dr Rowland-Warmann further elaborates on vascular occlusion, noting, “Vascular occlusion with Sculptra is uncommon due to its liquid form and subdermal injection plane. If it occurs, it is managed using standard vascular occlusion protocols, including the use of hyaluronidase to promote vasodilation and improve blood flow, despite the product not being HA.” Aesthetics | January 2026

and develop gradually, which should be taken into account during treatment planning and patient consultation to ensure alignment with treatment goals.

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GO BEYOND WITH ADVANCED PERFORMANCE

Patients love the mirror moment feeling and the results that last beyond it.1-5

~90%

were satisfied after 1 month and satisfaction remained high through 6 months*1-3

Up to

98%

would return for treatment and recommend Relfydess™ after 1 month, with up to 90% agreeing through 6 months†4,5

Relfydess™ is indicated for the temporary improvement in the appearance of moderate-tosevere glabellar lines (GLs) at maximum frown and moderate-to-severe lateral canthal lines (LCLs) at maximum smile alone or in combination, in adult patients under 65 years, when the severity of these lines has an important psychological impact on the patient. * Based on the Facial Lines Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire (FLTSQ) completed by all ITT patients treated with Relfydess in the READY-1 and -2 studies. 94% (GLs, n=218) and 87% (LCLs, n=226) of patients at Month 1 and 77% (GLs, n=210) and 71% (LCLs, n=223) at Month 6 were satisfied or very satisfied with their treatment.2,3

71%

preferred Relfydess™ compared to previous neuromodulators they’d been treated with after 1 month‡6

Relfydess™ in the RELAX study (n=99). Patients agreed or strongly agreed with the statement ‘I prefer to be treated with this study product than with other neuromodulators I received in previous treatments’.6 GL, glabellar line; LCL, lateral canthal line.

References: 1. Galderma. Relfydess™ Summary of Product Characteristics. 2024. 2. Galderma Laboratories. MA-47072. Clinical Study Report for Protocol 43QM1602: READY-1. Fort Worth, TX: 2021. 3. Galderma Laboratories. MA-47073. Clinical Study Report for Protocol 43QM1901: READY-2. Fort Worth, TX: 2021. 4. Galderma Laboratories. MA-47072. Clinical Study Report † Based on the FLTSQ completed by all ITT patients treated with Relfydess in the READY-1 and for Protocol 43QM1602: READY-1. Tables 14.02.11.04 and 14.02.12.02. Fort Worth, TX: 2021. 5.

-2 studies. 98% (GLs, n=218) and 93% (LCLs, n=226) of patients at Month 1 and 90% (GLs, n=210) Galderma Laboratories. MA-47073. Clinical Study Report for Protocol 43QM1901: READY-2. and 86% (LCLs, n=223) at Month 6 agreed or strongly agreed with the statement ‘I would have Tables 14.2.12.4 and 14.2.13.2. Fort Worth, TX: 2021. 6. Galderma Laboratories. MA-59692. Clinical this treatment done again’. 98% (GLs) and 93% (LCLs) of patients at Month 1 and 90% (GLs) and Study Report for Protocol 43QM2106: RELAX. Fort Worth, TX: 2023.

88% (LCLs) at Month 6 agreed or strongly agreed with the statement ‘I would recommend this This medicinal product is subject to additional monitoring. This will allow quick treatment to others’.4,5 identification of new safety information. Healthcare professionals are asked to ‡ Based on the Subject Treatment Questionnaire completed by all ITT patients treated with report any suspected adverse reactions.

Step into the future of neuromodulation

Not an actual patient. For UK HCPs who are eligible to prescribe neuromodulators.

QR code to prescribing information and adverse event reporting.

Galderma portfolio available at our distribution partners

medfx

© 2025 Galderma S.A. All rights reserved. GB-REL-2500064 DOP July 2025

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A Review of the Latest Evidence in Polynucleotide Treatments Miss Jenny Doyle, Dr Aaminah Haq and Dr Arshi Baig review the latest research in polynucleotide treatments in medical aesthetics Globally, non-invasive aesthetic procedures accounted for more than £52 billion of revenue in 2023 and are increasing, with an annual growth rate of 15.4% from 2024 to 2030.1 Injectable treatments accounted for more than £32 billion of the market and have been forecasted to have the most significant growth by 2023.1 This rise has been largely driven by a need for treatments focusing on skin rejuvenation, steady advancements in biotechnology and an increasing inclination towards non-invasive procedures.2 The UK polynucleotides (PNs) market generated a revenue of more than £5 million and is forecasted to grow at a rate of 15% from 2025 to 2030.3 PNs are a regenerative aesthetic treatment, thought to be effective for multiple indications. They serve to address issues such as skin texture, elasticity and overall skin quality.2

Pharmacology and action Deoxyribonucleotides (DNA) and ribonucleotides (RNA), found in all cells, allow organisms to reproduce. They are made of multiple ‘building blocks,’ termed nucleotides, chains of this monomer make up PNs. A nucleotide consists of three parts: a nitrogenous base, sugar (either ribose for RNA or deoxyribose for DNA) and a phosphate group.4 Polydeoxyribonucleotides (PDRN), consist of multiple nucleotides with the sugar being deoxyribose, hence the term refers to the use of DNA.5 PDRNs are derived from the sperm of Oncorhynchus mykiss (rainbow/steelhead trout) or Oncorhynchus keta (chum salmon).5 The DNA obtained undergoes an extensive purification process to remove immunogenic proteins.6 PDRNs are used in skin rejuvenation to boost collagen formation and overall skin appearance.2 Intrinsically, the process of ageing of the skin has been linked to the overall reduction in dermal collagen and elastin.7 External factors such as smoking, sun exposure and stress levels contribute to an increase in the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), this reduces availability of antioxidants and subsequently impairs the ability to tackle inflammation.8

PDRN use has been associated with better hydration, improved skin roughness and pore size in comparison to HA filler 28

On a cellular level, PDRNs increase collagen production by effects on the a Adenosine A2A receptor, which leads to the activation of fibroblasts, in turn increasing the production of collagen and elastin.10,11 They also provide a reservoir of nucleotides, which the cells then harness for DNA replication and repair. This ‘salvage pathway’ allows the cell to utilise nucleotides from injected PDRNs, as opposed to assembling them from the beginning.12 PDRNs reduce oxidative stress by neutralising free radicals and their negative charge encourages water absorption, promoting long-term and sustained hydration.9,5 PDRNs also exert a pro-angiogenic influence by increasing levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), improving tissue oxygenation.9 Traditional PNs typically have high molecular weight (>1,500 kDa) that makes them too large to pass efficiently by techniques such as microneedling which creates small micro channels in the skin, and would therefore need to be injected intradermally to ensure effective delivery of product into their target site, the fibroblasts-laden dermal layer. There are newer products that utilise low molecular weight PDRN to increase absorption when used with microneedling techniques or heat devices onto the skin.13

DNA source Whilst head-to-head comparison study is scarce, there is ongoing debate about the preferred source of the DNA used to create PDRN products (Table 1).

Product – farmed fish

Domain

Product – wild fish

DNA integrity

Thought to have higher DNA integrity

DNA integrity may be damaged by chemicals used in farming14

Ethics

Contribute minimally to pollution

Have greater contribution to pollution. Farming process may be more stressful for the fish15

Cost

Higher cost of production

More cost effective and scalable16

Table 1: Preferred sources of DNA for PNs14-16

Available products In the UK market, most products are CE marked or UKCA as medical devices undergoing regulatory transition from the MDD to the MDR.17-21 Each brand provides a range of products customised for use in different target areas. The available products are summarised below.

Ameela Produced by Amedica Italia Srl, Ameela products are derived from wild-caught Atlantic salmon that are both MSC certified and FDA-approved. They contain salmon DNA and come in several

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formulations: Ameela Eyes (20mg per 2.5ml), Ameela Rejuvenation (50mg per 2.5ml), Ameela Face (62.5mg per 2.5ml) and Ameela Exosomes (50mg per 3ml). The Rejuvenation and Face products can be used on the face, neck and décolletage to improve skin elasticity.17 Both the Eyes and Rejuvenation formulations may be applied in the tear trough area; however, it is generally advised to begin with the Eyes formulation in patients prone to swelling under the eyes. Ameela Exosomes, which combines grapefruit and watermelon exosomes with PNs, is designed for microneedling delivery and provides enhanced antioxidant effects.17 Plinest Produced by Mastelli, Plinest is sourced from freshwater Italian trout and utilises trout sperm DNA. The available formulations include Plinest Eye (7.5mg/ml), Plinest Hair (7.5mg/ml), Newest (10mg/ ml), and Plinest (20mg/ml). Plinest Hair is used to stimulate hair follicles in areas of thinning or damage, including the eyebrows.

The Newest formulation contains non-cross-linked hyaluronic acid combined with PN and mannitol to enhance hydration and skin health.18 NucleoFill Produced by Promoitalia, NucleoFill is derived from farmed Atlantic salmon and contains salmon DNA. The range includes NucleoFill Eyes (7.5mg/ml), NucleoFill 20 (20mg/ml), NucleoFill 25 (25mg/ ml), and NucleoFill Hair (7.5mg/ml). The NucleoFill 20 and 25 formulations can be used on the face, neck and décolletage to improve elasticity, while NucleoFill Eyes and NucleoFill 20 may be applied in the tear trough area. It is generally advised to begin treatment with NucleoFill Eyes in patients who are prone to swelling under the eyes.19 Vitaran Produced by Fox Group, Vitaran products are made from farm-raised trout and contain trout DNA. Vitaran I contains 20mg/ml of PDRN in a 1ml syringe and is intended for use under the eyes, while Vitaran II has the same concentration of PDRN in a 2ml syringe for use on the facial skin, neck and décolletage.20 Rejuran Produced by PharmaResearch, Rejuran products are derived from wild salmon and contain salmon DNA. The range includes Rejuran Healer, Rejuran I (10mg/ml), Rejuran S (20mg/ml), Rejuran HB and Rejuran Skin Booster. Rejuran I is formulated for thinner skin areas such as the under-eye region, while Rejuran S is used to fill depressed areas such as scars. Rejuran HB combines polynucleotides and hyaluronic acid (HA) to provide mild volumisation and repair; it also contains lidocaine to reduce discomfort during injection. The Rejuran Skin Booster is designed to enhance surface glow and hydration and is typically delivered via microneedling.21

Mode of deliver Treatment methods High-molecular-weight PDRNs are delivered via injection with either a needle or cannula, in a similar manner to dermal filler.

Choice of technique would be based on injector aptitude and patient preference. Techniques include microdroplet, linear threading and fanning.5 Needles allow for precise placement

CPD Polynucleotides

but may lead to more bruising and swelling post-procedure.

Cannulas can be manoeuvred to cover broad areas of the dermis and hypodermis with a singular entry point; however, delivering intradermally is a challenge. Cannulas carry a lower risk of damaging vessels or nerves and reduce the likelihood of accidental intravascular injection. Moreover, since the product is non–cross-linked, the risk of vascular occlusion is minimal – similar to other non–cross-linked skin boosters.22 Microdroplet and linear threading of PDRN to the dermal layer, delivered with a 30-32G needle, is the preferred technique as the small size of the needle makes bruising, bleeding less likely and needs the least amount of pressure when injecting a product with the viscosity of PDRNs.23 Low-molecular-weight PDRNs can be microneedled onto the face, in our practice, we aim for a depth of 1mm for the most of the face and 0.25mm for thinner areas of the skin such as the peri-orbital region.13 PDRNs can be combined with other treatment modalities to target facial skin rejuvenation.

When combining any energy-based treatment with an injectable, the former should be delivered first, in order to avoid denaturing, inactivation or migration of the injectable product.24

PDRNs have been shown to improve healing of autologous skin graft donor site, improving clinical outcomes and reducing need for further interventions or hospitalisation Patient selection Appropriate patient selection is crucial to ensure safety and optimise outcomes. PDRNs are contraindicated in the following cases:26

· Fish or shellfish allergy · Previous reaction to PNs · Pregnancy and breastfeeding – though no evidence of

teratogenicity or expression in breastmilk, there is no evidence of safety · Compromised skin barrier causing infection risk e.g. psoriasis, eczema · Skin cancer history or treatment – PDRNs may stimulate cell growth, including causing proliferation of cancer cells

Risks of treatment The side effect profile associated with the use of PDRN intradermally remains minimal but includes:23,26

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· Injection site bruising · Localised skin irritation · Injection site skin dryness and flakiness. This can be mitigated by adequate hydration and treated with topical moisturisers

Aftercare After receiving PN treatment, patients should avoid excessive sun exposure for a period of 48 hours following the procedure, this is to minimise swelling post procedure that may result due to increased blood flow to the area post-sun exposure. Skin may be cooled with cooling packs. Patients should avoid massage or manipulation of the treated area, and any active skin care in the days immediately pre and post treatment.26

Treatment areas The following sections outline recommended protocols for different facial zones.

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In our practice, the following treatment protocol is used in the delicate areas: Scalp PDRN has a role in hair regeneration and shows promise in androgenic alopecia (AGA). In AGA, in both male and female sufferers, hair follicles miniaturise and gradually become thinner.

PDRN use is associated with improvement in hair density and resilience of follicles.30 Product concentration

20mg/ml

Dose per session

5ml

Session interval

Four sessions for two to four weeks apart with review at four to six weeks post last session

Technique

Needle microdroplet

Table 4: Treatment protocols for the scalp

Stretch marks

Face For facial skin, PDRNs are indicated to address issues such as an improved skin quality and rejuvenation.2 It is recommended to use high concentration PDRNs to allow for maximum effect, in all but the delicate areas (see next subsection).

In our practice, we use the following initial treatment protocol as discussed below, our practice has been adapted from published guideline to products available in the UK market.27 Product concentration

25mg/ml

Dose per area

2.5ml

Session interval

Two sessions for two to four weeks apart with review at four to six weeks post second session

Number of sessions

Two for regular skin Three to four in cases of advanced ageing

Delicate areas Delicate treatment areas include periocular skin, neck, decolletage and hands.

Changes in the periocular region, in particular, are a key indicator in assessment of age. Treatments targeting this area result in significant satisfaction by improving the appearance of crow’s feet and dermatochalasis.23-29 Treatment area

Periocular

Neck/decolletage/ back of the hands

Product concentration

8mg/ml or 20mg/ml

25mg/ml

Dose per session

2ml

2ml

Session interval

Two to four weeks

Two to four weeks

Number of sessions

Two for regular skin Three to four in cases of advanced ageing

Two for regular skin.

Three to four in cases of advanced ageing

Technique

Cannula fanning or intradermal needle microdroplets

Needle microdroplets

Table 3: Treatment protocols for delicate areas

Stretch marks are linear streaks seen on the skin, due to rapid expansion or shortening of the dermis, which leads to a marked reduction in elastin and fibrillin fibres in the papillary dermis.31 The lines can have a deep psychological impact on an individual and therefore an increasing number of patients have been consulting for their management.31-33 Product concentration

20 mg/ml or 25mg/ml

Dose per session

2.5ml

Session interval

Four sessions for two to four weeks apart. Three sessions for two to four weeks apart with review at four to six weeks post last session

Technique

Needle microdroplet or retrograde linear thread

Table 5: Treatment protocols for stretch marks

Surgical wounds

Table 2: Facial guidelines for PDRN treatment

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PDRNs have been shown to improve healing of autologous skin graft donor site, improving clinical outcomes and reducing need for further interventions or hospitalisation.34 Rubegni published a randomised placebo controlled double masked study of 26 adults’ patients undergoing explant removal. The treatment arm received a 5625 mg/vial once daily intramuscular injection, plus an equivalent subcutaneous dose of two vials every three days for a full duration of 10 days. The cohort receiving PDRNs had an improved rate of wound healing compared to placebo. This effect was evident at day seven and sustained until day 14.34 Cavallini investigated the use of PDRNs to correct depressed scars and stretch marks in 15 female patients undergoing a complete (five patients) or mini face lift surgery (15 patients). Patients received a combination of intramuscular and subcutaneous injections pre- and post surgery, including an intensive daily home administration in the four weeks bracketing the surgery. They were found to have an improved wound appearance, suture removal two days early, with no adverse healing delay noted and positive patient reported outcome measure.35 A further study showed of PDRN to have a superior outcome than laser alone for wound healing in post-thyroidectomy scars.

60 patients were randomised to either PDRN or saline injection.

All patients were additionally treated with a combination of non-ablative and ablative fractional laser treatment. 3D images were assessed using the Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS), global

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photographic analysis and objective measurements at baseline, and subsequently at two, four, eight and 16-weeks post surgery.

The PDRN arm had better VSS score, lower scar height, less pigmentation and better scar quality in comparison to the control group.36

tackle signs of ageing. Further mechanistic research is needed to enhance treatment protocols, optimise dosing regimens and fully elucidate their therapeutic potential, both within and outside the field of aesthetics.

Test your knowledge!

Alternative treatment options

Complete the multiple-choice questions and email memberships@aestheticsjournal.com to receive your CPD certificate!

There are several other established injectable treatments commonly used in aesthetic practice to address skin quality, volume and rejuvenation.

Questions

HA dermal filler In comparison to the immediate volumisation achieved with HA based dermal fillers, PDRNs provide a subtle enhancement over weeks to months as the tissue is repaired and restored at a cellular level. PNs may possess more potent dermal reactivation capabilities than HA, positioning them as effective primers that help stimulate and restore skin function.37,38 PDRN use has been associated with better hydration, improved skin roughness, and pore size in comparison to HA filler in a follow-up analysis involving 23 patients with a mean age of 48-78 years. The rate of improvement in hydration and pore size was higher in the PDRN group, in comparison to the HA group, by week 16. The rate of roughness for the arm receiving PDRNs has surpassed the HA group by week 28.39 The side effect profile of PDRN is more forgiving than that of HA. Tyndall effect is much less likely, making PDRN a safer choice in the under-eye region.40,41 There is also a reduced risk of vascular blockage with PDRN overall, PDRNs have a better safety effect profile and results that last longer than traditional methods such as HA fillers.40 However, the effect may be insufficient for patients desirous of dramatic results or facial recontouring and profile balancing. Some products, such as the Plinest Newest, contains non-cross-linked HA combined with PN and mannitol to enhance hydration and skin health.18 Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) PRP and PDRN are thought to have similar effects on vascular supply, collagenogenesis and fibroblast proliferation through injection or induction of VEGF, with very similar injection methods.

However, PRP requires staff specifically trained in phlebotomy, use and maintenance of centrifuge equipment.42 PRP may be preferable in patients who do not wish to use any exogenous compounds, and PDRN for the vast majority of other patients without these qualms.42

Frontiers for research PNs have emerged as a promising class of rejuvenating agents that offer a non-invasive route to achieve skin regulation and

2. Polynucleotides used in aesthetic treatments are most commonly derived from:

3. How do polynucleotides contribute to skin hydration?

a. Increasing melanin production b. Stimulating collagen and tissue repair c. Exfoliating the outer skin layer d. Blocking sweat glands a. Human stem cells b. Plant extracts c. Salmon or trout DNA d. Synthetic polymers a. By forming a protective oil layer on the skin b. By reducing pore size c. By attracting and retaining water in the extracellular matrix d. By shrinking sebaceous glands a. Prevent allergic reactions

4. In polynucleotide skin treatments, what role do antioxidants play?

b. Help break down dead skin cells c. Neutralise free radicals and reduce oxidative stress d. Increase melanin synthesis

5. Which of these are NOT techniques used to deliver polynucleotides?

a. Microdroplet b. Linear threading c. Intravenous infusion d. Fanning subdermally with a cannula Answers: B, C, C, C, C

The side effect profile associated with the use of PDRN intradermally remains minimal

1. What are polynucleotides primarily used for in skin rejuvenation treatments?

Possible answers

Miss Jennifer Doyle is a consultant oculoplastic surgeon and founder of The clinic at Holland Park. She also works within the NHS as an oculoplastics consultant at Milton Keynes University Hospital NHS Trust. She has several years of experience integrating aesthetic and non-surgical treatments into her practice. She is a key opinion leader for Sciton, Sofwave, Skinstorm and Ameela.

Qual: BMBCh, MA(OXON), L7Cert, FRCOphth Dr Aaminah Haq is an ophthalmology registrar and aesthetic doctor at The Clinic Holland Park. She uses a variety of regenerative aesthetic techniques, including polynucleotides, laser and ultrasound treatments. She trained in Oxford Deanery as a microsurgeon and undertook her Level 7 in aesthetics at Harley Academy.

Qual: MBBS, BSc, L7Cert, FRCOphth Dr Arshi Baig is a resident doctor who completed her foundation training within the NHS in the Oxford deanery. She has an interest in oculoplastic surgery and aesthetics and is currently undertaking a fellowship in the field at The Clinic at Holland Park.

Qual: MBChB, BSc

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Dermatology Skin of Colour

Acne Vulgaris in Skin of Colour

Triggers

Dr Sidra Khan explores the clinical and therapeutic updates of acne vulgaris in patients with diverse skin tones

Several medications, including systemic corticosteroids, janus

Acne vulgaris is a common chronic inflammatory disorder of the

and dyspigmentation.1

pilosebaceous unit, affecting individuals across all racial and

History taking and examination

ethnic groups.1 However, there are important considerations to take into account with regards to presentation and sequelae for patients with richly pigmented skin.

In skin of colour (SOC; Fitzpatrick IV-VI), acne is frequently

A variety of endogenous and exogenous factors can precipitate or worsen acne. Hyperandrogenic states, most notably polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), are well-recognised drivers, increasing sebogenesis and follicular keratinisation.1 Exogenous hormones, such as the progesterone-only pill, may similarly exacerbate acne.1 kinases (JAK) inhibitors and lithium can induce monomorphic, abrupt-onset acneiform eruptions.1 Cultural practices may also contribute; occlusive hair products can cause pomade acne, whilst chronic use of topical corticosteroids within skin lightening creams may trigger steroid-induced acne

A comprehensive history and physical examination are essential for guiding management and identifying factors that disproportionately affect patients with SOC. Key elements include acne duration, anatomic distribution, menstrual or hormonal

characterised by heightened inflammation and a disproportionate

triggers, prior therapies and risk factors such as haircare

burden of dyspigmentation, with pigmentary change often

practices, topical corticosteroid use or medication.1,2

persisting long after active lesions have resolved. A study by

Examination should document inflammatory and non-inflammatory

2

Halder et al demonstrated histological inflammation within lesions

lesions, evidence of PIH, scarring subtype, excoriation and signs

clinically perceived to be “non-inflammatory,” suggesting that

of hyperandrogenism.1,2 High-quality, consistent photography is

acne severity in SOC may be greater than clinical appearance

valuable for monitoring pigmentary change in SOC.

alone would suggest, which may contribute to under-recognition and suboptimal management, including sequelae such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).³ Keloid and hypertrophic scarring are also more common, amplifying the psychosocial impact of this condition and underscoring the need for timely intervention.1 Whilst therapeutic principles in acne remain universal, SOC requires tailored management to minimise pigmentary complications and irritation. Topical retinoids, azelaic acid, combination regimens and device-based approaches – such as long-pulsed 1064 nm Nd:YAG and 1726 nm lasers – offer effective, pigment-safe treatment options. Early referral for consideration of systemic therapy, including isotretinoin, is often appropriate to prevent long-term sequelae.

Diagnosis Acne is a clinical diagnosis encompassing a spectrum from comedonal and papulopustular disease to nodulocystic acne, acne conglobata and the rare but severe acne fulminans.1,2 Important differentials include rosacea, periorificial dermatitis, pyoderma faciale, gram-negative folliculitis and steroid-induced eruptions.

In SOC, assessment is complicated by reduced visibility of erythema, necessitating careful evaluation of lesion morphology and patient-reported symptoms. Non-inflammatory lesions include open comedones (blackheads) and closed comedones (whiteheads). Inflammatory lesions include papules, pustules, nodules and cysts.1,2 Pigmentation may be intra or peri-lesional, appearing concurrently with active acne, while true PIH develops following

Pathophysiology Acne arises from increased sebum production, abnormal follicular keratinisation, C. acnes proliferation and a complex inflammatory cascade. Early lesions are neutrophil-driven, progressing to 4

Th1/Th17-mediated inflammation that contributes to tissue injury and scarring.4

resolution of inflammation.2,3 Both patterns are common in SOC, with dyspigmentation often presenting as the patient’s principal concern.7 Keloid and hypertrophic scarring also occur more frequently in darker phototypes, and excoriated acne (acne excoriée) may lead to pronounced textural and pigmentary change.8

The cutaneous microbiome also influences disease expression; dysbiosis and shifts in C. acnes phylotypes are thought to amplify inflammation and alter treatment responsiveness. Emerging

These features highlight the importance of early intervention and a lower threshold for a timely dermatology referral to consider systemic agents such as isotretinoin, particularly in patients

evidence suggests microbiome variation across ethnic groups but

demonstrating scarring tendencies, severe inflammatory disease

this warrants further research.

or distressing pigmentary sequelae.

5,6

Aesthetics | January 2026

33

Dermatology Skin of Colour

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When to refer to dermatology There are key clinical scenarios where referral to dermatology is recommended to ensure timely, specialist-driven management (Table 1).

When to refer to a dermatologist

· · ·

Nodulocystic acne Acne conglobata Acne fulminans

2. Risk of scarring or keloid formation

· ·

Early atrophic scarring Keloid or hypertrophic scarring tendencies (common in SOC)

3. Significant pigmentary sequelae

· ·

Distressing or extensive PIH Refractory dyspigmentation despite topical therapy

4. Treatment-resistant acne

·

Inadequate response after 12 weeks of appropriate first-line therapy Relapse following oral antibiotic

5. Need for systemic therapy

· ·

Assessment for isotretinoin Complex hormonal acne requiring specialist input

6. Psychosocial distress

·

Marked impact on mental health or quality of life

7. Diagnostic uncertainty

·

Suspicion of steroid related acne, gram-negative folliculitis, pyoderma faciale or other mimics

Table 1: A table illustrating when to refer a patient to a dermatologist.9

Management strategies Managing acne in SOC requires an evidence-based approach that accounts for the higher risk of pigmentary change and scarring. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines recommend at least 12 weeks of topical therapy before assessing response and limiting oral antibiotics to the shortest effective duration.9 These principles are particularly important in SOC, where delayed or suboptimal treatment can lead to persistent dyspigmentation and textural change.

Topical therapies Topical agents remain first-line therapy for mild-to-moderate acne across all skin tones. Retinoids are foundational due to their comedolytic, anti-inflammatory and pigment-regulating effects.

Newer-generation formulations, such as tazarotene lotion and trifarotene, demonstrate improved tolerability and reduced irritation, albeit still necessitating cautious introduction in SOC to avoid PIH.10,11 These advances are especially relevant in SOC, where irritation can precipitate or worsen PIH.1,2 Mitigating side effects should be a key component of treatment planning. Strategies include initiating topical retinoids at reduced frequency (two to three times weekly), employing “short-contact” application in sensitive individuals, or combining therapy with a barrier-supportive, low comedogenic risk emollients.2,8 Morning use of azelaic acid can complement evening retinoids, addressing both inflammatory lesions and hyperpigmentation through its anti-inflammatory and anti-tyrosinase effects.8,12 Benzoyl peroxide (BPO) remains valuable for its antimicrobial properties, though lower concentrations (2.5%) are preferred to reduce irritancy. Clindamycin-BPO combinations and adapalene-BPO fixed regimens may also be used, with the caution that any agent capable of inducing irritation or dryness should be introduced gradually in darker skin tones.8 A new addition to the topical armamentarium is clascoterone 34

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1% cream, a topical androgen receptor inhibitor that reduces sebaceous gland activity.13 Its targeted mechanism, favourable tolerability and lack of irritation make it a potentially useful option in SOC patients, particularly for patients with hormonally patterned acne or those looking for a non-irritating alternative or adjunct to retinoid-based regimens.13 Systemic therapies

1. Severe disease

·

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For moderate-to-severe or scarring acne, and particularly for SOC patients at heightened risk of enduring pigmentary or scarring sequelae, systemic treatment should be considered early.

Combined oral contraceptives can be helpful in female patients, particularly where acne is hormonally triggered. Spironolactone is an effective adjunct or alternative in women with signs of androgen excess or when contraception is already established.9,14 Oral tetracyclines remain useful for short-term control of inflammatory acne, albeit limited to the shortest effective duration (three to six months as per NICE guidelines) and should always be combined with appropriate topical therapy reduce antimicrobial resistance.9 Isotretinoin remains the most effective treatment for nodulocystic, scarring or treatment-refractory acne. Its efficacy, safety and affordability have improved considerably with increased clinician familiarity and robust monitoring frameworks. In SOC, early initiation under consultant dermatologist supervision is strongly encouraged; prompt disease control can prevent PIH, keloids and long-standing scarring that become increasingly challenging to treat over time. As with any potent therapy, careful counselling regarding side effects such as dryness, sun sensitivity, teratogenicity and the potential for mood disturbance in a minority of patients, must be addressed.12,14 Appropriate adjunctive skincare is essential to minimise irritant dermatitis and optimise outcomes.9,14 Procedural and device-based approaches Procedural treatments can provide meaningful adjunctive benefit in acne management, particularly in SOC, where the risk of PIH and scarring is heightened.

Procedural treatments can provide meaningful adjunctive benefit in acne management, particularly in SOC, where the risk of PIH and scarring is heightened Superficial chemical peels, such as glycolic acid and salicylic acid, can accelerate clearance of active lesions and improve PIH, provided they are introduced cautiously. TCA CROSS, the chemical reconstruction of skin scars (CROSS) using trichloroacetic acid (TCA), cautiously administered in a targeted

Aesthetics | January 2026

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fashion at lower concentrations across an increased number of sessions can also improve the appearance of atrophic acne scars.15,16 Pretreatment priming, conservative acid strengths, avoidance of irritants and rigorous photoprotection reduce the risk of rebound pigmentation.

Medium-to-deep chemical peels, such as phenol-based formulations, are unsuitable for SOC due to unpredictable penetration and a significantly increased risk of PIH, hypopigmentation and scarring.15,16

In SOC, early initiation under consultant dermatologist supervision is strongly encouraged; prompt disease control can prevent PIH, keloids and long-standing scarring that become increasingly challenging to treat over time

Dermatology Skin of Colour

treat PIH in SOC; their photoacoustic mechanism allows more selective pigment disruption with less thermal injury, offering a safer profile for darker phototypes.20 Optimising outcomes in SOC generally requires conservative settings, appropriate cooling, incremental treatment plans and strict photoprotection. Comprehensive counselling on expected timelines and the need for multimodal therapy is essential to minimise long-term pigmentary and textural sequelae.18,19,29 It is important to note that ultimately no procedure is entirely without risk. Whilst modern technologies and device advancements can significantly reduce the rate of adverse events, the baseline risk of dyspigmentation and scarring remains inherently higher in SOC patients, underscoring the need for careful device and parameter selection and clear counselling and informed consent.18-20 Lifestyle and skincare Lifestyle factors may influence acne, though evidence for dietary triggers remains limited and inconsistent. Low-glycaemic diets and reduced intake of skimmed cow’s milk may help selected individuals, but clinicians should exercise caution here for fear of promoting restrictive eating patterns, as these can be harmful.21,22 Stress reduction, adequate sleep and avoidance of products at higher risk of comedogenicity offer adjunctive benefit.23,24 It is always important to ensure patients adopt gentle, barrier supportive skincare routine with broad-spectrum sunscreens that include visible light protection, ideally containing iron oxides. These remain central to preventing dyspigmentation, which is especially crucial in patients with SOC.25,26

Integrating aesthetics and dermatology Microneedling offers additional benefit for early post acne textural changes and atrophic scarring. It is generally well tolerated in darker phototypes when depth and aftercare are carefully controlled but should be avoided in active acne.15,16 Energy-based devices broaden therapeutic options in SOC when selected with attention to wavelength and melanin interaction.17,18 The 1726 nm laser represents an emerging modality, selectively heating lipid-rich sebaceous glands to reduce sebum production with minimal epidermal disruption.17 Its low affinity for melanin supports safe use across diverse skin tones and offers an option for patients who cannot pursue or decline systemic therapy.

There is also evidence for the use of long-pulsed 1064 nm Nd:YAG lasers for inflammatory acne in SOC. A retrospective analysis of a 650ms, 1064 nm device in 225 patients, including a substantial proportion with SOC (59%) of cohort self identified as non Caucasian; African American (38%), Asian (9%), Hispanic (3%) and other (9%), demonstrated high clearance rates, minimal downtime and no significant safety differences between darker and lighter skin types.18 These findings support its role as a valuable adjunct or, for selected patients, an alternative to systemic therapy.

Fractional non-ablative lasers are preferred for atrophic acne scarring due to favourable safety and collagen-remodelling capabilities. Ablative modalities such as CO2 carry substantially higher risk for PIH and scarring, and should be avoided in darker skin tones, only to be used in highly selected cases under specialist supervision.19 Picosecond lasers may also be used to

Aesthetic treatments can complement medical management when timed appropriately. Chemical peels, microneedling, targeted laser therapy and tailored skincare regimes can help to treat pigmentation and scarring. However, clear sequencing is essential; active acne should be medically controlled first, with aesthetic procedures introduced as adjuncts or to address residual textural and pigmentary sequelae.

Looking ahead Effective acne management in SOC requires precise diagnosis, early intervention, and pigment-conscious treatment planning.

Combining evidence-based topical, systemic, and procedural approaches, whilst minimising irritation and dyspigmentation, remains key to reducing the risk of long-term scarring and achieving optimal, safe outcomes for our acne patients with diverse skin tones.

Dr Sidra Khan is a consultant dermatologist in Glasgow specialising in lasers, skin ageing and skin of colour dermatology. She has published extensively and contributes to ongoing research in pigmentary disorders and skin ageing. She serves on national and international committees, including Skin of Colour Training UK, and is frequently invited to lecture in the UK and abroad.

Qual: BSc (Hons), MBChB, DTMH, MRCP (Derm)

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Aesthetics | January 2026

35

Hair Loss Exosomes

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Aesthetics

Exosome Therapy for Hair Loss

· Topical: Minoxidil – 62-84.3% response

Androgenic Alopecia (AGA) is an ailment that globally affects up to 70% of men and 50% of women by the age of 50, with an increasing number of patients seeking treatment options during the reversible stages of follicular miniatutrisation.1 Its effects can be characterised by progressive hair loss and thinning in the fronto-vertex, parting and crown areas of the scalp although some patients can experience generalised diffuse thinning.2 These symptoms can have a negative impact on one’s quality of life (QoL) and self-confidence thus the demand for treatment continues to increase year after year with the hair loss treatment market expected to grow by a rate of 5.5% from 2025-2033.3 Qualitative research into QoL association with AGA has shown that negative effects are apparent across all agre groups and more prevalent in those between 21-30 years of age irrespective of socio-demographic background.4 A practitioner’s duty then becomes discerning the most efficacious and appropriate treatments to aid our patients in either prevention, reversal of miniaturisation or restoration via surgical means.

Exosome therapies represent a novel means of tackling hair loss. This article explores the ways in which miniaturisation, ageing, greying and post-surgical inflammation can be reduced with exosome therapies.

AGA The process of hair loss in AGA involves the regression of terminal hairs on the scalp into intermediate and finally vellus hairs, this process termed ‘miniaturisation’ is reversible in AGA whilst the hair follicle remains.5,6 Classification and evaluation tools are required to both diagnose and subsequently monitor hair loss and/or reversal for AGA as it is a chronic condition. Means of evaluating hair loss can be summarised into two categories:7 1. Non-invasive: Questionnaires, clinical photography, dermoscopy, hair pull tests.

2. Invasive: Scalp Biopsy (usually reserved for diagnosis).

Classification scales are apparent within the literature for both male and female patterns such as Norwood’s Scale (1975) and The Savin Scale (1992).8 The aetiology of miniaturisation in AGA stems from genetic, hormonal and ageing processes. The hormonal process involves the conversion of high serum testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT) via 5-alphareductaseinhibitor type II (5-ARI) enzyme. DHT acts on the outer root sheath (ORS) of hair follicles in the scalp to inhibit both hair shaft elongation and growth of the ORS cells.2

Current treatment modalities The majority of treatments for hair loss are aimed at the reversal of miniaturisation as surgical implantation is the only option once the hair follicle has been lost. Different mechanisms of action are employed such as 5-ARI blockers, improved blood flow to the follicles and supply of growth factors to the ORS to combat miniaturisation as outlined below.2,9 36

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Current therapies span broadly across:2,5,9

Dr Bhavik Shah and Dr Munir Somji explore the use of exosome therapy for the management of hair loss

AGA is an autosomal dominant condition and thus genetic predisposition will affect the onset, pattern and the overall propensity of hair loss e.g. how aggressive the hair loss will be and which areas will experience hair loss.5,6

Aesthetics

rate over 12 months² · Oral: Finasteride or Dutasteride (5α-reductase inhibitors) – 87.1% response rate over three years² · Light-based: Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) and light-emitting diode (LED) treatments · Injectables: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is the most widely used, however other are available including polynucleotides – 40-60% response rate after three months10 · Nutritional supplementation: Saw palmetto, hydrolysed collagen, biotin2 · Surgical interventions: Follicular unit extraction (FUE) and strip follicular unit transplantation (FUT) Each of these modalities individually target a different means of reversing follicular miniaturisation.

The importance of summarising the scope of available treatments is to highlight that not every modality will be suitable for each patient. Often patients are reluctant to seek hormonal (spironolactone) or oral treatments (finasteride) as a result of the potential adverse effects (altered blood pressure, sexual dysfunction, depression).11 Non-surgical therapies, such as PRP for example, whilst efficacious, have a lack of standardisation in protocol (in their preparation, volume injected and frequency of treatment) and are perceived by patients to be more painful than the alternatives, leading us to explore alternative combinations.9,10,12

Exosomes Exosomes are extracellular vesicles (30-200 nm) of various origin that are used to transport proteins, nucleic acids and bioactive molecules to target tissues influencing local cell growth, development and overall function.1 They are classified

The importance of summarising the scope of available treatments is to highlight that not every modality will be suitable for each patient

Aesthetics | January 2026

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based on their derivation (animal, plant or human analogues) and their method of preparation (ultracentrifugation, size-based isolation, polymer precipitation).13,14 The use of exosomes in the management of hair loss stems from their innate ability to mediate intercellular communication and deliver tailored growth factors to the hair follicle cells, ORS and dermal papilla cells eliciting a co-ordinated tissue response.15 In particular, exosomes have been found to increase dermal papilla cells expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) promoting angiogenesis around the hair follicle.14,16 They have a high specificity for their respective target cells whilst exhibiting low immunogenicity and toxicity making them a safe option for therapeutic use.16,17 Important criteria for selecting exosomes in hair loss treatment include their molecular size and the bioactive molecules they carry. Homogeneity in size is paramount, as it directly affects treatment potency as changes to cell surface receptors or exosomal contents will have a reduced action on the target cells.18 Exosome therapies for AGA remain novel, and emerging high quality evidence continues to support their efficacy and tolerability across a variety of donor origins, with the main difference in magnitude of effect arising from treatment and follow up protocols. Nonetheless further evidence is required in the form of META-analyses and larger sample size studies to compound the already growing evidence base.17 Plant-derived exosomes In the UK, plant-derived exosomes (PDEs) are notable, as the use of human exosomes are prohibited in accordance to UK and EU legislation for cosmetic products19 whilst animal-derived exosomes including marine (E-50) and bovine milk (purasomes) are available in the UK within the remits of cosmetic topical use.20,21 Multiple plant derivations have been explored ranging from ginger, grapefruit, lemon and rose petal each with their unique combination of antioxidants, phospholipids and mRNA that are able to mediate a variety of human cells.16,19 The mediation of human dermal papilla cells and fibroblasts elicits positive wound response mechanisms, including anti-inflammatory effects and promoting the shift from telogen to anagen phases of hair follicles.19,22 Rose stem-cell exosomes (RSCE) in particular have been highlighted in a series of published case reports due to the sheer amount of mRNA sequences that 23 are matched with human counterparts, with five of these being related to cellular proliferation.19,24-27

Clinical applications Exosomes have the ability to reduce oxidative stress, influence melanocyte function and regulate hair growth via Wnt/b-catenin pathways, making them a versatile option in the management of not only hair loss in chronic conditions, but also the management of acute conditions such as alopecia areata amongst others.24 In particular two case studies have shown promising results in the reversal of greying arising from the ability to modulate melanocyte and keratinocyte function at the hair shaft, blocking tyrosinase activity and improving hair growth.25-27 Finally the anti-inflammatory effects of topical exosomes have sparked their use post hair transplant in an effort to reduce shed rate of the transplanted follicles and improve wound healing, not to mention the means of reducing risk of adjacent shock loss.17,18 Treatment protocols mimic those of current injectable practices for AGA related hair loss, initially monthly treatments (1 vial infused via microneedling) are advised for the first four months to discern a visible reversal of miniaturisation prior to extending the inter-appointment length of time. Maintenance treatments are recommended at the three to six month mark depending on the rate of shedding, adjunctive treatments and patient lifestyle factors.24-26 PDEs are available in topical formulations and thus require a means of delivery to their target cells. A variety of delivery mechanisms are present within the literature ranging from non-invasive (electroporation and ultra-sound mediated impaction) to the physical creation of channels (microneedling, radiofrequency microneedling and lasers) to facilitate exosome action at their respective target cells.12,23,25

Aesthetics | January 2026

Hair Loss Exosomes When considering applications for hair loss the target cells are around the hair follicle itself and the ORS, therefore mechanisms that create physical channels within the epidermis are preferred.12 Microneedling stamps laced with exosomes (off-label) and the use of non-ablative lasers alongside topical exosome placement are mentioned frequently within the literature as a means of creating localised petechiae stimulating the wound response in addition to mediating cell to cell interactions.17,26 If exosomes are to be used in the management of post-surgical inflammation then care must be taken in their application to not damage the newly grafted follicles.26,28

Clinical considerations Exosomes offer versatility as an alternative to systemic or topical therapies, as a maintenance option for patients who have reversed follicular miniaturisation, and as an adjunct for reducing post-surgical inflammation or mitigating age-related greying. The emerging evidence supporting plant-derived exosomes (PDEs) in AGA management is promising; however, more rigorous studies – such as RCTs with larger sample sizes rather than isolated case reports – are needed to strengthen reproducibility and confirm therapeutic benefit.29,30 Dr Munir Somji is a cosmetic surgeon and co-founder of the DrMediSpa clinic group and Dr Somji Pro-Active Skincare.

He specialises in advanced aesthetic procedures and hair restoration and is a key opinion leader and educator having lectured at King’s College London and global specialty conferences including CCR 2025. Dr Somji’s innovative techniques and dedication to patient care make him a leading global authority in his field.

Qual: BSc, MBBS, MRCS, PGCert, MISHRS Dr Bhavik Shah is an aesthetic practitioner at DrMediSpa clinics. His work focuses on a combination of biostimulatory and antiageing treatments through the use of combination therapies.

He holds a Bachelor in Dental Surgery and has been working within the field of medical aesthetics for the past five years having taken on a Master of Science in Aesthetic Medicine to complement his clinical experience.

Qual: BDS (Hons)

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Healthy looking skin starts here1,* Meet SKINVIVE™: the only HA injectable that delivers up to 9 months of deep† hydration‡ in a single treatment2,3,§,¥ ¥ A touch up treatment may be required at the clinician’s discretion.1-4

Model received treatment with SKINVIVE TM. Individual results may vary.

How can SKINVIVETM fit into your practice?

FLEXIBILITY ACROSS DIFFERENT PATIENTS AND TREATMENT PLANS2,5,6 Suitable for a diverse range of Fitzpatrick skin types2,6,||,¶,**

CONVENIENCE FOR YOU AND YOUR PATIENTS

Can be used alongside other aesthetic treatments5,††

After one treatment session, patients can enjoy results lasting up to 9 months2 with minimal downtime1,§§

SKINVIVE™ should not be used simultaneously with laser treatment, deep chemical peels or dermabrasion.

For surface peels, it is recommended not to inject the product if the inflammatory reaction generated is significant.4

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION. Patients may experience potential side effects with SKINVIVE™ by JUVÉDERM® facial filler, which include inflammatory reactions (redness, oedema, erythema, etc.), haematomas, induration or nodules, staining or discolourations at injection site, etc. SKINVIVE™ must not be used in: patients suffering from untreated epilepsy; patients who tend to develop hypertrophic scarring; patients with known hypersensitivity to hyaluronic acid and/or to gram positive bacterial proteins as hyaluronic acid is produced by Streptococcus type bacteria; patients with known hypersensitivity to lidocaine or to amide-type local anaesthetics; patients suffering from porphyria; women who are pregnant or breastfeeding; children. SKINVIVE™ must not be used in areas presenting cutaneous inflammatory and/or infectious processes (acne, herpes etc.).4 Please refer to SKINVIVE™ by JUVÉDERM® Directions for Use (DFU) for a full list of adverse events, indications and contraindications.4 HA, Hyaluronic acid.

Footnotes: * Lasting up to 9 months as reported by 76.2% of patients. As reported by patients (127/131; 1 subject did not respond) in a composite satisfaction score, which includes how healthy their facial skin looked.1 † Skin hydration was measured using the MoistureMeterD instrument with the XS 5 and S 15 probes (depth of effective measurement: 0.5 and 1.5 mm, respectively).2 ‡ Instrument measures of skin hydration, smoothness, and skin deformation parameters were performed on the cheek, forehead, and neck of one side of the face on Day 0 and at 30 days after initial treatment (before touch up), Months 1, 4, 6, and 9 after the last treatment, and Month 1R. Skin hydration was measured using the MoistureMeterD instrument(n=131) and top-up treatment administered at Day 30 (n=31) to correct asymmetry.2 § Based on a search of published clinical studies of injectable HA treatments in March 2023. A duration of 9 months of skin hydration was established with SKINVIVE™.3 || The Fitzpatrick classification denotes six different skin types, skin colour and reaction to sun exposure (type I: burns easily, never tans; type II: burns easily, tans minimally with difficulty; type III: burns moderately, tans moderately and uniformly; type IV: burns minimally, tans moderately and easily; type V: rarely burns, tans profusely; type VI: never burns, tans profusely).7 ¶ Data from a randomised, evaluator-blind, delayed control study in which 209 patients with moderate/ severe Allergan Cheek Smoothness Scale scores were randomised to receive VYC-12L via intradermal microdepot injections to both cheeks (n=136) or control (no treatment with optional treatment) (n=73). The majority of patients had Fitzpatrick skin types III/IV (58.8%), followed by I/II (32.0%) and V/VI (9.2%).

Effectiveness measures included changes in cheek skin smoothness, changes in cheek fine lines and skin hydration at months 1, 2, 4 and 6 after the final injection (initial or touch-up).6 ** Data from a prospective, single-arm study in which 131 patients with moderate/severe cheek skin roughness as per Allergan Skin Roughness Scale received VYC-12 intradermally in the cheeks and forehead, with an option to treat the neck. Select patients (n=31) received touch-up treatment 30 days after initial treatment to correct asymmetry. The majority of patients had Fitzpatrick skin type III (53.4%), followed by II (35.1%), IV (10.7%) and V (0.8%). Assessments of cheek skin roughness, cheek fine lines and skin hydration were performed at 30 days after initial treatment (before touch-up), months 1, 4, 6 and 9 after last treatment (initial or touch-up) and 1 month after repeat treatment.2 Produced and funded by Allergan Aesthetics, an AbbVie company. © 2025 AbbVie. All rights reserved. All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

†† Data from a retrospective case review undertaken at a single cosmetic dermatology clinic in Vancouver, Canada. A total of 736 patients treated with a total of 1577 VYC-12 treatments were identified; for each VYC-12 treatment, other modalities used on the same day or in the subsequent 9 months were recorded.

718 patients received same-day or asynchronous combination treatments, and 1444 VYC-12 treatments were performed with same-day combination treatments. Data captured included VYC-12 volumes, time interval between treatments, patient age, gender, and adverse events. 5 §§ Data from a prospective, single-arm study in which 131 patients with moderate/severe cheek skin roughness as per Allergan Skin Roughness Scale received VYC-12 intradermally in the cheeks and forehead, with an option to treat the neck. Select patients (n=31) received touch-up treatment 30 days after initial treatment to correct asymmetry. Subjects assessed their return to normal daily social activities (yes/no) in diaries on days 1, 2 and 3 after each treatment.1 References: 1. Ogilvie P et al. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2020;19(5):1065–1070. 2. Niforos F et al. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2019;12:791–798. 3. Allergan Aesthetics. Unpublished data. SKINVIVE™ by JUVÉDERM® – 9-month duration of skin hydration in clinical trials. REF-108945. March 2023. 4. SKINVIVE™ by JUVÉDERM® DFU. 20081699. Revision 2023-10-04. 5. Zarbafian M et al. Dermatol Surg. 2022;48(3):369–372. 6. Alexiades M et al. Dermatol Surg. 2023;49(7):682–688. 7. Sachdeva S. Indian J Dermatol Venereol Leprol. 2009;75(1):93–96.

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Adverse events should also be reported to AbbVie on ProductSurveillance_EAME@allergan.com.

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15 March 2025, Grosvenor House, London

14 March 2026, Hilton Park Lane, London

Celebrating the 2026 Finalists Celebrated by the specialty as the pinnacle of recognition in medical aesthetics, The Aesthetics Awards is the flagship event that shines a light on those driving standards, safety and innovation. Each year, the event brings together the community to acknowledge the individuals, companies and products in the UK and Ireland whose work is shaping the future of medical aesthetics.

For 2026, the calibre of submissions has been exceptional, reflecting an ever advancing field and a strong commitment to patient outcomes. The Aesthetics team is proud to unveil this year’s Finalists and to recognise the dedication behind every entry. A special congratulations to the individuals, clinics and companies shortlisted for 2026.

The Winners will be revealed at The Aesthetics Awards ceremony on March 14, held after the second day of ACE 2026. Join the community for an evening of celebration, connection and inspiration – turn to p.49 to find out how to secure your place.

Play your part in choosing the Winners In a number of categories, the final result will be determined by a judging panel and voting by the medical aesthetics community.

This gives you the opportunity to acknowledge the partners, products and services that have made a real difference to your practice and patients. In relevant categories, the public vote will contribute 20% to the overall score.

To participate, simply create a complimentary account and log in at aestheticsawards.com before February 2, 2026.

To maintain fairness, voting is tracked by IP and other verification systems. Each person is permitted one vote per category. Repeated votes using the same details or arising from the same organisation may be investigated and removed.

A rigorous and independent judging process

Every Aesthetics Awards entry undergoes a robust, independent review. Our judging panel is comprised of more than 100 respected figures from across medical aesthetics, chosen for their expertise in clinical practice, business excellence, education and innovation. Each category is scored by a minimum of five judges Enhance future entries with tailored feedback to ensure balanced, evidence based decision making.

We recognise that putting together an Awards entry takes All judges are screened for conflicts careful reflection, data collection of interest and are required to and time away from busy clinics adhere to strict confidentiality and and businesses. To support your ethics guidelines. The process professional development, we is overseen by the Independent offer personalised feedback on Awards Standards Council, which request to both shortlisted and has granted The Aesthetics non shortlisted entrants.

Awards an Advanced Trust Mark If you would like to receive in recognition of our feedback on your 2026 transparent, impartial and submission, please trustworthy approach. email memberships@ Visit The Aesthetics Awards aestheticsjournal.com. website to view the full Feedback requests must judging panel and learn be received by January 15, 2026. more about how the judging system operates.

Aesthetics | January 2026

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15 March 2025, Grosvenor House, London

Company finalists DISTRIBUTOR OF THE YEAR

VOTE NOW!

This award recognises suppliers with exclusive distribution rights of aesthetic treatments, products and innovations in the UK or Ireland.

VOTE NOW!

Highlighting independent organisations that deliver robust, evidence based training that genuinely enhances practitioner competence and patient safety.

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ACRE

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AestheticSource

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Cliniva Cosmetic Training

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Church Pharmacy

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Cosmetic Courses

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DermaFocus

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Derma Institute

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Harpar Grace International

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FaceTherapyNI Academy

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Healthxchange

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Healthxchange

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Pure Swiss Aesthetics

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Inspired Cosmetic Training

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Sculpt Pro Aesthetics

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NEXTGENERATION Mentorship

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Unique Skin

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The London Academy of Aesthetic Medicine

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Wigmore Medical

MANUFACTURER OF THE YEAR

VOTE NOW!

Recognising manufacturers that demonstrate excellence in product quality, research, training and partnership with the medical aesthetics community.

40

INDEPENDENT TRAINING PROVIDER OF THE YEAR

COMPANY CHAMPION OF THE YEAR

VOTE NOW!

Celebrating individuals who go above and beyond within their company to support practitioners, champion best practice and drive the specialty forward. Ø

Leeanne Evans (Dermalux)

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Boley Nutraceuticals Ltd

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Rebecca Henry (DermaFocus)

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Bottled Science Ltd

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Karen Houlihan (DermaFocus)

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Candela

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Gemma Hunter (AlumierMD)

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Energist

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Elaine Krebs (Galderma)

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Evolus

Ø

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Galderma (UK) Limited

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InMode UK

Georgina Mackley (Harpar Grace International)

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Victoria Millerchip (AestheticSource)

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Mike Sherwood (Derma Institute)

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Simone Shoffman (Healthxchange)

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Victoria Voysey (InMode)

Aesthetics | January 2026

15 March 2025, Grosvenor House, London

Product finalists DEVICE OF THE YEAR

VOTE NOW!

This category rewards devices that combine strong clinical evidence, safety, patient satisfaction and practice impact. Ø

Dermalux Tri-Wave MD (Aesthetic Technology Ltd.)

SKIN PRODUCT/RANGE OF THE YEAR

VOTE NOW!

This award celebrates the manufacturer or exclusive UK/Irish distributor of the best skin product or range offered in UK/Irish medical aesthetic clinics over the past 12 months. Ø

AlumierMD

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Dermapen 4 (Dermapenworld UK)

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GF5 Next Generation (CellDerma)

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Emerald Laser (Erchonia)

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Purasomes® Skin Range (DermaFocus)

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Gentlo (Beamwave Technologies)

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ALASTIN Skincare (Galderma)

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LaseMD ULTRA (Seriderm UK)

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Obagi Medical Skin Rage (Healthxchange)

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HydroPeptide Skin Rage (Wigmore Medical)

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Klira Routine (Klira)

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NOON Aesthetics

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PCA Skin

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Lumenis UltraPulse Alpha CO2 Laser (Lumenis)

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NeoGen (Energist)

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Optimas Max (InMode)

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Sculpta by Déesse PRO (Harpar Grace International)

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SkinPen® Precision (Crown Aesthetics)

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Sofwave (Sofwave)

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XCellarisPro Twist (Wigmore Medical)

DIGITRX BY CHURCH PHARMACY AWARD FOR BEST NEW INNOVATIVE PRODUCT

BY

This award honours products launched after Jan 1, 2024, that bring a genuinely fresh approach or technology to medical aesthetics, with clear benefits for both patients and practitioners. Ø

Advanced RGN-6 (SkinCeuticals)

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Alma Harmony (Alma UK and Ireland)

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EXOMIND (BTL Aesthetics)

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Ø Ø

iS Clinical Extra Strength Active Peel Brightening System (Harpar Grace International) Longevha (Caromed Italia)

Relfydess (Galderma)

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Stratacel (Stratpharma)

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The Dayscript (Klira)

Ø Ø Ø

Revision Skincare® Skin Range (AestheticSource)

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Skinade®

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SkinCeuticals P-TIOX (SkinCeuticals)

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Night Repair Therapy (The Skin Diary)

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ZO Skin Health

THE TSK LAB AWARD FOR INJECTABLE PRODUCT OF THE YEAR Recognising injectable products that offer consistent, high quality outcomes supported by robust data, training and practitioner feedback. Ø

FILLMED Juvelook (Laboratoires FILLMED UK)

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Plinest® (Mastelli by DermaFocus)

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Pluryal Densify (MD Skin Solutions)

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Profhilo Structura (IBSA Derma UK)

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SCULPTRA (Galderma)

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Obagi Rebalance Skin Barrier Recovery Cream (Healthxchange)

Ø

Ø

Ø

SKINVIVE by JUVÉDERM (Allergan Aesthetics UK) SuneKOS (AestheticSource)

ToskaniMed Lumicen Boost Serum (The Glow Group) VOL.U.LIFT by IMAGE Skincare (Wigmore Medical) ZO Skin Health Peptide Facial Refining Concentrate (ZO Skin Health)

Aesthetics | January 2026

41

15 March 2025, Grosvenor House, London

Regional clinic finalists THE GALDERMA AWARD FOR BEST CLINIC SOUTH ENGLAND

THE LUMENIS AWARD FOR BEST CLINIC LONDON

Recognising clinics in the South of England that exemplify safe, ethical, patient centred care and strong business performance. Ø

Anna Medical Aesthetics

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Aurielle Aesthetics

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Balance Wellness

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Berkshire Aesthetics

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Define Clinic

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Dr MediSpa

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Dr Tanja Phillips Medical Aesthetic Clinic

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Medikas

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Perfect Skin Solutions

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The Courtyard Aesthetic Clinic

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The Doctor Clinic

THE DERMAPENWORLD AWARD FOR BEST CLINIC NORTH ENGLAND Highlighting outstanding clinics in the North of England known for clinical excellence, innovation and exceptional patient experience.

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Bank MediSpa

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Cliniva Medispa

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Dr Wass Skin Clinic

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Dr Yusra Clinic

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Paragon Aesthetics

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Sculpted by Doctors

Celebrating London clinics that stand out in a competitive market through quality of care, strong clinical governance and consistent results. Ø

Adonia Medical Clinic

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Berkeley Hair Clinic

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Centre for Surgery

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Clinicbe

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Dr Nyla Medispa

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Facial Sculpting by Dr Nina Bal

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Harley Street Injectables

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Harrods Wellness Clinic

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London Professional Aesthetics

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PICO London

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Simply Clinics - Uxbridge

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Takroni Clinic

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Thames Skin Clinic

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The Cadogan Clinic

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The Clinic Holland Park

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The Ghanem Clinic

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Yuki Clinic

Aesthetics | January 2026

15 March 2025, Grosvenor House, London

Regional clinic finalists BEST CLINIC MIDLANDS & WALES

BEST CLINIC SCOTLAND

Showcasing clinics in the Midlands and Wales that deliver high standards of treatment, patient safety and long term outcomes.

Recognising Scottish clinics that demonstrate outstanding clinical practice, patient communication and contribution to the profession.

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Air Aesthetics & Wellness Clinic

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Clinetix

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Astounding Skin Aesthetics

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Esteem Life Medical Group

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Dr Ana The Skin Clinic

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Highland Medical Aesthetics Ltd

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Hampton Clinic

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Infinity Skin Clinic Edinburgh

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MediZen Clinic

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Precise Medical Aesthetics

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Novello Skin

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The Mayfield Clinic

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Three Medical Aesthetics

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Your Beauty Doctor

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Zenith Cosmetic Clinics

THE INMODE AWARD FOR BEST CLINIC IRELAND & NORTHERN IRELAND Honouring leading clinics across Ireland and Northern Ireland that embody best practice and support the growth of the specialty locally. Ø

A AESTHETICS NORTH COAST

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Array Aesthetics

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Dr Bonny Clinic

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FaceTherapyNI

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ORA Clinic

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South William Clinic Group

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The Glow Clinic

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The Laser + Skin Clinics

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The Skin Nurse Clinic

Aesthetics | January 2026

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15 March 2025, Grosvenor House, London

Other clinic finalists THE IBSA AWARD FOR BEST NEW CLINIC, UK & IRELAND This category celebrates clinic established after January 1, 2024, that have built a growth initiatives, commitment to customer service, patient care and safety, plus positive patient feedback.

Rewarding clinic teams that work seamlessly together to deliver an outstanding, consistent patient journey and positive workplace culture. Ø

Adonia Medical Clinic

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Amer Clinic

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Aurielle aesthetics

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Berkeley Hair Clinic

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Cliniva Medispa

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Dr Ed Robinson Aesthetics

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Define Clinic

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Dr. Harry Clinic

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Derma Consult Skin Specialist ltd

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Hart Medical

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Dr Leah Clinics

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JOURNEY

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Dr Sobia Medispa

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KinDRed Clinic

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Dr Yusra Clinic

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Leicester MediSpa LTD

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Esteem Life Medical Group

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Naturally Flawless Aesthetics LTD

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Harley Street Injectables

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OSO MEDICAL LTD

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KAST Aesthetics Ltd

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Skin Therapy Medical Aesthetics

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Novello Skin

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The Aesthetics Doctor

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Paragon Aesthetics

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The Medispa

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Thames Skin Clinic

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The Stockbridge Clinic

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The Ezra Clinic

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The Cosmetic Centre

BEST AESTHETICS, WELLNESS AND LONGEVITY CLINIC (NEW FOR 2026)

BEST CLINIC TEAM MEMBER

This award highlights clinics that demonstrate a holistic approach to patient management, alongside innovation, safety, client experience and long-term health outcomes.

44

THE ALLERGAN AESTHETICS AWARD FOR BEST CLINIC TEAM

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Air Aesthetics & Wellness Clinic

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Clinicbe

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Esteem Life Medical Group

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Human Health

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Linia Medical Group

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mSkin

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OSO MEDICAL LTD

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TRACE Medispa

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The Doctor Clinic

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The Wellness Atelier

Recognising an individual whose attitude, contribution and professionalism have a tangible impact on their clinic’s success and patient care. Ø

Nicky Barraclough (Cliniva Medispa)

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Lorraine Cahill (Laser + Skin Clinics)

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Kani Haki (The KP Clinic)

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Yuting (Trina) Huang (OSO Medical Ltd)

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Ras Ivanauskaite (Linia Skin Clinic)

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Brendan Molloy (South William Clinic Group)

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Kelly Mullins (Aurielle Aesthetics)

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Alexandra Olaru (South William Clinic Group)

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Zoe Rendell (Wellface Ltd)

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Caj Shusee (Berkeley Hair Clinic)

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Nefise Tasdelen (Dr Ducu London)

Aesthetics | January 2026

15 March 2025, Grosvenor House, London

Result finalists THE DERMAFOCUS AWARD FOR BEST INJECTABLE RESULT

THE CROWN AESTHETICS AWARD FOR BEST NON-SURGICAL RESULT

Honouring practitioners who achieve safe, natural looking transformations with injectables, supported by strong assessment, planning and follow up.

Recognising outstanding outcomes achieved using non surgical treatments, with clear evidence of patient satisfaction and ethical practice.

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Dr Bonny Armstrong

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Dr Dorota Chudek

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Dr Alison Colville

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Emma Curran

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Natalie Fletcher

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Dr Anna Hemming

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Dr Christopher Hutton

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Dr Harry James

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Dr Amy Law

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Dr Ana Mansouri

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Dr Ahrooran Sivakumar

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Dr Sonia Soopen

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Dr Ben Taylor-Davies

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Dr Zoya Awan

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Dr Anna Hemming

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Dr Bisma Hussain

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Dr Christopher Hutton

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Dr Lorraine Hill

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Monika Jakstiene

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Dr Cemal Kavasogullari

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Dr Ana Mansouri

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Dr Tanja Phillips

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Jonathan Toye

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Dr Yusra Al-Mukhtar

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Dr Johanna Ward

Aesthetics | January 2026

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15 March 2025, Grosvenor House, London

Clinic support and organisation finalists BEST SERVICE/SOLUTION PROVIDER

VOTE NOW!

This award recognises companies that offer services, software or solutions that genuinely support clinics in delivering safe, efficient and compliant care.

46

Ø

Aesthetic Nurse Software

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Aesthetic Response

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AesthetiDocs

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Clinic Grower

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Digital Aesthetics

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HARLEYDOC

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Kendrick PR

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My Compliance Clinic

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Organised Success Company

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PatientPerfect

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YDY Business Coaching Ltd

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Zenoti

THE ZENOTI AWARD FOR BEST INITIATIVE/STRATEGIC PROJECT IN AESTHETICS

VOTE NOW!

Highlighting initiatives, campaigns or strategic projects that have advanced education, standards, patient awareness or professional collaboration within aesthetics. Ø Ø

Aesthetic Nurse Mentors Ltd British Association of Medical Aesthetic Nurses

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British College of Aesthetic Medicine

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Beyond the Mirror

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Dermalux LED

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FaceTherapyNI

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LTF Digital

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The Late Late Aesthetics Show

Aesthetics | January 2026

15 March 2025, Grosvenor House, London

Individual practitioner finalists THE GETHARLEY AWARD FOR MEDICAL AESTHETIC PRACTITIONER OF THE YEAR

THE ALUMIERMD AWARD FOR RISING STAR OF THE YEAR

This category acknowledges medical professionals who exemplify clinical excellence, ongoing learning, leadership and a holistic approach to patient care.

Celebrating practitioners who have been in the specialty less than five years, who have made a notable impact early in their aesthetics career through high standards, engagement with education and contribution to the community.

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Dr Bonny Armstrong

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Dr Yousrah Ahmed

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Mei Abadiano

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Dr Ahmed El Houssieny

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Dr Dorota Chudek

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Dr Ahmed El Muntasar

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Emma Curran

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Dr Rehanna Beckhurst

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Lucy Foster

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Dr Ifeoma Ejikeme

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Eleanor Hartley

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Miss Jenny Doyle

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Dr Jessica Halliley

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Dr Nestor Demosthenous

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Dr Bisma Hussain

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Professor Ali Ghanem

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Dr Harry James

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Dr Anna Hemming

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Dr Cemal Kavasogullari

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Dr Barbara Kubicka

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Dr Brendan Molloy

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Dr Selena Langdon

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Dr Hazel Parkinson

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Dr Ana Mansouri

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Dr Edward Robinson

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Dr Beatriz Molina

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Dr Bethany Rushworth

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Dr Dev Patel

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Shannon Simpson

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Dr Leah Totton

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Dr Ahrooran Sivakumar

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Dr Ben Taylor-Davies

THE EVOLUS AWARD FOR AESTHETIC NURSE PRACTITIONER OF THE YEAR Recognising nurse prescribers who combine advanced clinical skills with safe practice, strong communication and advocacy for patients. Ø

Amy Bird

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Yuliya Culley

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Amanda Demosthenous

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Alice Jenkins

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Anna Lee

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Alexandra Mills

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Jacqueline Naeini

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Nicola O’Byrne

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Kelly Richards

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Lisa Waring

Aesthetics | January 2026

47

1. The Matrix system is not available for sale in the EMEA until CE marked. ©2025 Candela Corporation. This material contains registered and unregistered trademarks, trade-names, service marks and brand names of Candela Corporation and its affiliates. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

All rights reserved.

Learn More

15 March 2025, Grosvenor House, London

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Courtesy of H. Ishikawa, MD, Japan All photos are untouched. Individual results may vary.

Before

After 2 Treatments

Courtesy of Prof. Firas Al-Niaimi, MD and Victoria Martinez, MD, Spain ll photos are untouched. Individual results may vary.

*As a result of tissue electrocoagulation. **Data on file. Individual satisfaction and results may vary.

candelamedical.com 48

Aesthetics | January 2026

Before

After 2 Treatments

Courtesy of P. Bekhor, Associate Professor, MD, Australia All photos are untouched. Individual results may vary.

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15 March 2025, Grosvenor House, London

The Aesthetics Journal Award for Outstanding Achievement in Medical Aesthetics, supported by

The Outstanding Achievement Award, supported by Gold Sponsor Healthxchange, is reserved for a standout contribution to medical aesthetics over a person’s career. It is designed to recognise an individual whose work has had a lasting, positive effect on the specialty and the wider community.

To put forward yourself or a colleague, visit aestheticsawards.com and complete the nomination form, clearly explaining the nature and impact of the achievement.

Nominations close on January 31.

The Aesthetics Journal team will review community nominations and select the recipient of the Outstanding Achievement award. There is no shortlist and no public vote for this category.

The Winner will be announced during The Aesthetics Awards ceremony on March 14 at the Hilton Park Lane.

Experience the Aesthetics community’s biggest night of the year

Taking place at the Hilton Park Lane in London, the 2026 ceremony will provide an elegant setting to relax and celebrate after two days at ACE. It is the perfect opportunity to reconnect with colleagues, meet new collaborators and applaud the achievements of the past year.

Every ticket includes a welcome champagne reception, a three course dinner, celebrity host, live entertainment, professional photography and an after party so you can continue the celebrations late into the evening. Ø

Table of 10: £3,900

Ø

Individual ticket: £390

Paying Elite Members of the Aesthetics community are eligible for Early Bird pricing, which ended on December 31, throughout the year. If you are unsure whether your membership qualifies, please contact memberships@aestheticsjournal.com and the team will confirm your status and share a discount code where relevant.

We look forward to celebrating with you at The Aesthetics Awards 2026 and wish every finalist the very best of luck.

Sponsorship opportunities for categories are still available.

The Aesthetics Awards has become one of the most anticipated dates in the calendar, with tickets often selling out well ahead of the event. If you plan to attend, we recommend booking early to avoid disappointment.

Please contact sales@aestheticsjournal.com for more information.

Aesthetics | January 2026

Scan for tickets

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Your source of integrity in aesthetic medicine At AestheticSource, we champion clinically proven brands and empower aesthetic professionals with training, marketing, and business support delivering more than products, we deliver trusted partnerships.

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Aesthetics

Lip Enhancement Techniques

of visibly over-plumped results, raising concerns about safety, professionalism and aesthetic credibility.

Techniques

Understanding the Modern Lip Augmentation Landscape

The choice of injection technique for lip augmentation depends on patient anatomy, aesthetic goals and practitioner preference.

Variations in lip volume, tissue density and vascular anatomy require tailored approaches to minimise complications and maintain natural balance.21 The intended outcome, such as defining the vermilion border, enhancing tubercles or correcting age-related volume loss, further guides technique selection.22 Practitioner expertise, understanding of dermal filler behaviour and aesthetic style also influence both safety and the predictability of results.23 Linear threading Linear threading describes the deposition of a continuous, uniform line of HA dermal filler, as the needle or cannula is advanced (anterograde) or withdrawn (retrograde) through the target plane.24

Dr Rasha and Dr Sara Rakhshani-Moghadam explore the evolution and techniques of lip augmentation

Typically performed within the submucosal or deep dermal layer using a 30G needle or, when preferred, a 25G cannula, this approach allows smooth, even volumisation and contour restoration, particularly along the vermilion border or within the lip body.25 Retrograde linear threading minimises the risk of intravascular injection by depositing filler while the needle tip moves away from key vascular structures.26

Lip augmentation is defined medically as, “The act of adding to or increasing the shape, size, function or strength of the lip.”1 It is one of the most sought-after aesthetic procedures in clinical practice, with recent data by independent European data collector Norstat citing lip augmentation as the number one treatment indication in the UK, and an estimated 4.5 million lip-related filler procedures expected to be performed globally in 2025.2,3 The market is expected to experience substantial growth over the next decade, with a Market Research Future report projecting an increase from £191.1 million in 2024 to £540 million by 2035.4

As the injector controls the vector, depth and rate of deposition, the technique allows even distribution of product and precise control of lip shape, symmetry and projection, reducing the likelihood of overfilling or nodularity compared with bolus injections.27,28 Its adaptability makes it suitable for both structural support and refinement of lip contour, depending on the rheological properties of the filler used and injector expertise.29 When performed with sound anatomical knowledge, linear threading yields natural, balanced results with minimal trauma and predictable integration of filler into surrounding tissue.30

An overview of lip enhancement Lip augmentation has evolved considerably since early 20th century attempts using liquid paraffin, which was soon abandoned due to complications.5,6 Liquid silicone followed in the 1960s but was later withdrawn over similar safety concerns.7,8 A major step forward followed with the introduction of injectable bovine collagen in the 1980s, which became the early standard for soft-tissue augmentation thanks to its biocompatibility. However, the need for allergy testing and risks of hypersensitivity limited its wider use.9-12 The development of hyaluronic acid (HA) dermal fillers marked a significant turning point. As a naturally occurring component of human tissue, HA offers improved safety, predictable outcomes and no requirement for pre-treatment testing.13 With the approval of non-animal stabilised HA gels in the late 1990s and early 2000s, HA fillers quickly replaced collagen and emerged as the leading modality in contemporary aesthetic practice.14-16 When considering the evolution of lip augmentation, celebrity influence and the rise of social media have significantly shaped patient expectations, with the exaggerated “overdone” lip trends of the early 2000s shifting towards more natural enhancement.17-19 Fuller lips became increasingly popular through the mid-20th century and reached a peak in the last 10 years, amplified by social-media visibility.17-19 A meta-analysis of 33 studies found a notable correlation between social media use and interest in cosmetic procedures.20 Individuals with more than four hours of daily exposure showed greater symptoms of body dysmorphic disorder (BDD).20 Overall, 33–57% reported an increased interest in cosmetic procedures, indicating a significant association.20 This shift may also reflect growing rejection

This technique is particularly suited to patients seeking subtle lip-contour refinement or vermillion-border definition. It is ideal when low-to-medium volumisation is desired, as it allows smooth, even product deposition along natural anatomical lines.31,32 Microdroplet deposition Microdroplet deposition refers to the controlled placement of numerous minute aliquots of HA into the superficial subcutaneous or intradermal plane of the vermilion and perioral skin to improve tissue hydration, refine micro-contour irregularities and subtly restore volume without gross projection.33,34 This approach typically uses low-viscosity, small-particle HA delivered as micro-boluses (microlitres per deposit) at high spatial density delivered via a 30G needle or 25G cannula where cannula is used.33 Aiming to promote even gel integration, stimulate dermal matrix remodelling and reduce the risk of nodularity associated with larger boluses, this technique can also serve as a salvage strategy for correcting filler nodules.35 Redistribution of product – supported by the hydrophilic nature of HA drawing in water and the mechanical effect of microdroplets – helps soften and smooth the nodule.35 Effective clinical application relies on precise depth control, gradual dosing and a thorough understanding of perioral vascular anatomy.

This is essential to reduce the risk of intravascular injection into the labial arteries and the subsequent potential for ischemia, necrosis or embolic complications.36-40 Patients with fine perioral lines, or mild asymmetry seeking subtle enhancement of lip hydration, texture and micro-contour would be most suited to this technique, as precise, superficial microdroplet placement allows gradual improvement with minimal risk of over-projection or lump formation.41,42

Aesthetics | January 2026

51

Lip Enhancement Techniques

@aestheticsjournaluk

Tenting (pillar) Tenting describes inserting the needle perpendicularly or obliquely through the vermilion border into the lip body to create vertical columns (‘pillars’) of HA filler.43 Each pillar acts as a supportive scaffold, elevating the vermilion and promoting upper-lip eversion while maintaining controlled projection and definition.44 This method is typically employed to restore lip height and shape in patients with age-related thinning or to enhance the Cupid’s bow architecture without excessive anterior protrusion.45 The technique involves multiple micro-deposits of dermal filler placed in the mid- to deep-dermal plane or superficial submucosa, with careful withdrawal to form evenly spaced pillars that mimic the natural fibrous septa of the orbicularis oris complex.46 Because injections occur near the superior and inferior labial arteries, precise depth control and incremental dosing are required to mitigate vascular occlusion risk.47 Clinicians often favour small-gauge needles (30-32G) to maximise accuracy and minimise trauma such as bruising, swelling, hematoma formation, vascular injury and inadvertent intravascular injection leading to ischemia or necrosis.48-50 When performed with appropriate anatomical awareness, the tenting method achieves enhanced vertical lift, balanced volume distribution and a natural lip contour that maintains mobility and function.51 This technique is ideal for enhancing vertical height and definition of the vermillion border to simultaneously enhance projection and shape.52,53

Before

Aesthetics

Aesthetics

aestheticsjournal.com

technique reduces vascular injury risk and post-procedural oedema compared with repeated direct injection methods.58 Anatomical precision remains crucial, as the technique traverses multiple planes near the superior and inferior labial arteries; therefore, blunt cannulas (25-27G) are often preferred for improved safety and control.59 Overall, the fanning method provides predictable, natural-looking outcomes when performed by experienced practitioners with a sound understanding of perioral anatomy and filler rheology.60 Russian The Russian technique highlights vertical placement of micro-aliquots of filler from the vermilion border toward the lip body, with the objective of increasing lip height and definition rather than anterior projection.61 This approach aims to enhance the central lip tubercles and Cupid’s bow, achieving a heart-shaped upper lip that maintains natural proportions and avoids excessive eversion.62 The technique typically employs multiple fine vertical injections, often using small-gauge needles (30-32G) to construct pillars of support within the superficial submucosal or dermal plane.63 By maintaining minimal lateral product distribution, the method preserves lip competence and reduces the risk of filler migration beyond the vermilion border.64 Compared with traditional linear threading, the Russian technique prioritises lip architecture and structural lift, producing sharper definition with controlled volumisation and is therefore most suited to patients seeking vertical projection and aesthetic refinement of the midline lip structure.65,66 Operator precision and anatomical understanding of the superior labial artery and associated vasculature are essential to avoid intravascular injection and ensure even filler integration.67

Product selection Product selection strongly influences both efficacy and safety.

Practitioners should rely on scientific, clinical and rheological evidence to match the filler to the patient and treatment goals. The lips, however, require tailored rheological properties because of their constant dynamic motion and the vermilion’s highly vascular, minimally supported connective tissue.68-70

After

Understanding the stretch and strength capabilities of the product and choosing a gel that is designed to integrate and move with the natural dynamics of facial movements, depending on the level of volume or projection that is required is key to creating the desired result. Practitioners remain responsible in defining the appropriate injection technique based on their assessment, the patient’s need and the volume to be injected.

Figure 1: 56-year-old patient before and after results following a single session using the linear thread technique.

Fanning Fanning points to a method delivery frequently employed in lip augmentation and perioral rejuvenation to achieve broad, uniform volumisation while minimising entry points and tissue trauma.54 The technique involves inserting the needle or cannula through a single entry point, usually at the oral commissure or along the vermilion border, and distributing multiple linear threads of filler in a fan-shaped pattern within the submucosal or superficial subcutaneous plane.55 The injector withdraws and redirects the instrument radially without complete withdrawal from the entry site, allowing the creation of evenly layered filler deposition and reducing the risk of surface irregularity.56 This approach facilitates symmetrical contouring, particularly in patients requiring diffuse volumetric correction rather than focal enhancement.57 By limiting puncture frequency, the fanning 52

Understanding the stretch and strength capabilities of the product and choosing a gel that is designed to integrate and move with the natural dynamics of facial movements, depending on the level of volume or projection that is required is key to creating the desired result. Practitioners remain responsible in defining the appropriate injection technique based on their assessment, the patient’s need and the volume to be injected.

Key biophysical properties of HA gels – elastic modulus (G prime), viscosity, cohesivity and tissue integration – directly affect suitability for the highly mobile lip region.71,72 Higher-G′ gels offer more support but may be less adaptable to dynamic movement, while lower-G′ products integrate more softly with reduced projection and longevity.73 Cohesivity reflects how well the gel resists dispersion and maintains shape during perioral motion.74 Spreadability and tissue integration are especially important in the lips, where product must move harmoniously with orbicularis oris activity.75 HA dermal fillers with a balanced rheological

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profile generally produce smoother contours and fewer palpable irregularities.76 Longevity (typically six to 12 months) depends on molecular weight, degree of cross-linking and stabilising agents such as 1,4-butanediol diglycidyl ether (BDDE).77 Cross-linking technologies were essential for improving durability and rheological performance. Native HA degrades rapidly, and BDDE cross-linking stabilises HA chains, increases resistance to enzymatic breakdown and allows control over viscoelastic properties.78-80 Modern fillers therefore achieve greater longevity and more predictable performance.81 Certain types of HA are designed to adapt to dynamic facial movement, using dual rheological parameters beyond traditional static measures such as G′.82,83 Evidence indicates that these types of HA integrates well into moving tissue, maintains projection during expression and supports natural outcomes in both static and animated states.84,85 Alongside predicted growth, the market is also shifting toward subtle, prevention-focused enhancement, requiring practitioners to offer versatile treatment options that support both aesthetic goals and lip tissue quality.86 Modern HA fillers combine volume with improved hydration and elasticity, enabling more personalised planning that aligns product rheology and technique with individual lip anatomy, muscular dynamics and patient preferences.87-89

Complications and practical considerations Despite its popularity, lip augmentation requires vigilant attention to patient safety and awareness of possible complications. According to Complications in Medical Aesthetics Collaborative (CMAC) and Aesthetic Complications Expert (ACE) Group World guidelines, complication management involves halting injection, assessing the affected area and administering hyaluronidase across the compromised artery and surrounding tissue, with redosing if perfusion is not restored. Ultrasound guidance may assist in localising filler and optimising enzyme delivery.90-92 Practitioners should maintain a fully stocked emergency kit, be trained in hyaluronidase reconstitution and injection and follow structured protocols for monitoring and follow-up. Minor complications such as non-inflammatory nodules, bruising or oedema can usually be managed conservatively, whereas skin breakdown may require wound care or specialist referral.93

Lip Enhancement Techniques

management.98 We allocate similar overall consultation time for all injectable treatments, but individual needs vary; first-time patients may require greater expectation management and education about filler options, while returning patients often need less time for review and planning.

Potential adverse events Although HA dermal fillers have well-established safety profiles, complications can still occur. Common, usually transient effects include bruising, oedema and swelling, which typically resolve within seven days.99 Palpable nodules or contour irregularities may result from superficial placement or uneven product distribution, while migration can occur with low-viscosity gels or excessive post-treatment manipulation.100,101 Vascular occlusion, though rare, is the most serious complication and arises from inadvertent intravascular injection, potentially leading to ischemic necrosis.102 Patients with recurrent herpes simplex complex (HSV) are given prophylactic antiviral medication before and after treatment, and active HSV must be fully resolved prior to injection. Smokers are advised to avoid smoking immediately afterwards to reduce the risk of product movement. Patients with autoimmune conditions can be treated, but require closer monitoring and follow-up. All patients receive a one-week face-to-face review, and higher-risk individuals receive an additional follow-up call the next day accordingly.

The lips are relatively low-risk compared to the glabellar or nasal regions, given differences in vascular anatomy and the potential for severe complications. However, knowledge of the superior and inferior labial arteries – and their variations – is essential for safe injection.103-106 Other potential complications include infection, delayed hypersensitivity reactions, granuloma formation (historically more common with non-HA fillers), over-augmentation and patient dissatisfaction when expectations are poorly managed.107,108 Several lip zones carry higher risk during augmentation due to dense and variable vascular anatomy.109 Risk increases as injections approach the central lip, requiring precise technique.109 Key “danger zones” include the Cupid’s bow and philtral columns, where major vessels converge; the lateral commissures, with complex perforating vessels prone to bruising or intravascular injection; and the vermilion border, with superficial vessels and delicate tissue.109 Awareness of these areas, combined with careful product choice and refined injection technique, is essential for safe and predictable results.109

Integrating safe practice

Patient suitability and consultations According to data, patients typically presenting in clinic for lip augmentation are millennials and Gen Z, with the latter now accounting for the majority of demand at 52%.94 As with any effective and ethical aesthetic treatment, appropriate patient selection via comprehensive pre-treatment consultation and patient education remains fundamental to achieving both safe and effective outcomes.95 Only patients aged 18 or over are eligible for treatment, and procedures that are unnecessary or driven by trends are declined. This is not age-dependent, as many older individuals may also have no clinical indication for dermal fillers.

Consultations include a thorough visual assessment of lip volume, symmetry, contour, perioral lines, dentition and dynamic movement.

Discussions should cover patient expectations, medical history (including bleeding disorders, autoimmune conditions and previous filler treatment or surgery) and psychological readiness.96 Experienced practitioners often recognise psychological red flags, such as ‘doctor-shopping’ or expectations that exceed what is achievable.97 Baseline clinical photography and a formal informed-consent process are essential for documentation and adverse-event

Lip augmentation has evolved into a sophisticated, mainstream treatment. Success now requires skilled technique, understanding of patient expectations, product science and safety. With rising demand, especially among younger UK patients, practitioners must pair clinical excellence with market awareness and personalised care to maintain credible, safe and effective services.

Dr Rasha Rahkshani-Moghadem is an aesthetic practitioner, owner of the Knightsbridge-based Dr Rasha clinic and an ambassador for Teoxane UK. Born in Kuwait and educated in both Australia and the UK, she brings a unique blend of cultural diversity and medical expertise to her practice.

Qual: MBBS, BMedSci, MSc Dr Sara Rakhshani-Moghadam is an aesthetic practitioner and a 2017 graduate from Kuwait University.

With experience in internal medicine, surgery and gynaecology, she later focused on surgical practice in London.

Qual: MBBS

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Overview of Chemical Peel Applications Dr Aiza Jamil illustrates how to integrate chemical peel applications into clinical practice Chemical peels are dermatological treatments designed to improve the appearance of the skin, typically on the face, neck or hands. During the procedure, a chemical solution is applied to exfoliate and remove damaged outer layers, revealing fresh skin that is typically smoother, less wrinkled and more evenly toned. They are commonly used to address concerns such as fine lines, acne, pigmentation, scarring and sun damage.1 Peels can be categorised into three depths; superficial, medium and deep.2 This article provides guidance on chemical peels, outlining each category in detail, examining their formulations, ideal applications and safety considerations to ensure optimal treatment outcomes.

Understanding chemical peels As chemical peels can be invasive procedures, careful preparation is essential to protect the skin and minimise the risk of complications.

Chemical peels work by applying a chemical exfoliant – such as alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), e.g. glycolic or lactic acid; beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs), e.g. salicylic acid; trichloroacetic acid (TCA); or phenol – to the skin, causing controlled injury to the epidermis or dermis.3 This stimulates exfoliation, increases cell turnover and promotes collagen remodelling and skin regeneration.3 The invasiveness of the procedure depends on the depth of penetration. Superficial peels target the epidermis, while medium and deep peels reach the papillary or reticular dermis, causing significant inflammation and downtime.4 Products commonly used in the specialty include glycolic acid (20-70%) for superficial peels, Jessner’s solution, trichloroacetic acid (TCA) (10-35%) for medium-depth peels and phenol peels for deeper resurfacing.5 Ideal patients include individuals with fair to medium skin tones, such as Fitzpatrick skin types (FST) I–III, seeking treatment for acne, hyperpigmentation, fine lines or photoageing.

Contraindications include darker skin types (for medium or deep peels), active skin infections, recent isotretinoin use, pregnancy and a history of keloid scarring.6

The three classifications of peel depth As previously noted, chemical peels can be categorised by three depths, including superficial, medium and deep.2 It is important for practitioners to be able to differentiate between peels for patient suitability.

Treatment Focus Chemical Peels Medium depth peels Medium depth chemical peels penetrate the epidermis into the papillary dermis. In a medium depth chemical peel, chemicals like Jessner’s solution and TCA are used.2 These acids cause controlled coagulation of proteins within the epidermis and superficial dermis, leading to the breakdown and shedding of damaged skin layers.2,8-10 As a result, the skin regenerates with new collagen and elastin formation in the dermis, improving skin texture, reducing wrinkles, scars and pigmentation irregularities. They are suitable to treat acne and acne scarring, age spots, fine lines and wrinkles, freckles and melasma.2,8-10 Medium-depth chemical peels are effective in managing acne by facilitating the clearance of clogged pores and reducing cutaneous inflammation.8,9 They can also improve the appearance of acne scarring through stimulation of collagen synthesis, which may enhance skin firmness and volume. With repeated treatments, medium-depth peels can contribute to the reduction of enlarged pores, resulting in a smoother and more refined skin texture.8-10 These peels are generally contraindicated in patients with darker skin tones (FST IV-VI) due to the higher risk of PIH. For this reason, only a superficial peel would be considered appropriate.8-10 They are also not recommended for individuals with active skin infections, sunburns, open wounds or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.8-10 The general downtime can last up to two weeks, often accompanied by more pronounced redness, swelling and peeling compared with superficial peels.8-10 Deep peels

Superficial depth peels Superficial peels commonly utilise AHAs such as glycolic acid, lactic acid and salicylic acid.2,7 These acids selectively loosen the connections between dead skin cells (corneocytes) in the outermost layer of the epidermis. By breaking down the bonds between these cells, the peel promotes controlled exfoliation and shedding of the outermost skin layer.7 This removal of damaged or discoloured cells stimulates regeneration of new, healthy skin cells beneath, leading to improved skin texture, tone and appearance.7 It is effective for mild hyperpigmentation, solar lentigines and rough skin texture by exfoliating the outer layers of discoloured skin to reveal a more even and radiant complexion underneath.7 Recovery time is minimal, with most patients experiencing only temporary redness and mild peeling lasting three to five days.2,7 While chemical peels are generally considered safe for all skin types, special caution is warranted in patients with darker skin tones, specifically FST IV-VI, due to a higher risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).2 Darker skin contains greater amounts of melanin and more reactive melanocytes, which respond more aggressively to inflammation or injury, thereby increasing the likelihood of PIH. For these patients, mild peeling agents – such as glycolic acid (10-30%), lactic acid (10-30%) and low concentrations of salicylic acid (up to 10%) – are preferred, as they minimise irritation and reduce the risk of hyperpigmentation.2 Superficial-depth options include professional formulations such as AlumierMD’s Enzymatic Peel or Bright & Clear Solution, DermaQuest’s Glycolic Acid Peel or SkinBrite Peel, and SkinCeuticals’ Gel Peel GL or Micropeel.

Aesthetics | January 2026

Deep chemical peels typically use phenol or high-strength TCA (50-70%) to penetrate through the epidermis and papillary dermis into the reticular dermis.4,5 This layer contains hair follicles, sebaceous and sweat glands, blood vessels and the collagen elastin matrix, where extensive protein coagulation and tissue destruction occur.4,5 This results in significant exfoliation and remodelling of the skin.5 These peels are effective for treating deeper wrinkles, age spots and shallow scars.4,5 By stimulating collagen production and promoting epidermal regeneration, deep peels can significantly improve the appearance of fine lines and deeper wrinkles, particularly in areas where they are most prominent, such as around the eyes and mouth.4,5 57

Treatment Focus Chemical Peels The full results of a deep chemical peel develop gradually over several months as the skin sheds and heals, often producing dramatic and long-lasting improvements from a single treatment.4,5 However, results remain subject to the effects of natural ageing and sun exposure, similar to superficial and medium-depth peels.4,5 Recovery following a deep peel can extend over several weeks and typically involves pronounced swelling, redness and peeling.5 Intensive post-treatment care is essential to optimise healing and results.5 This includes maintaining adequate hydration and moisturisation, avoiding sun exposure and managing discomfort with appropriate pain relief.4,5 Deep peels are most suitable for individuals with lighter skin tones seeking correction of moderate to severe skin concerns.4,5 They are generally not recommended for patients with FST IV-VI skin due to an elevated risk of hypopigmentation, therefore a superficial peel is recommended.4,5 Medium-depth options include BioRePeel Cl3, Obagi Blue Peel Radiance and Obagi Blue Brilliance Triple Acid Peel. Depth can be increased through protocol adjustments, with deeper options including BioRePeel Cl3 (administered as a five-vial course or single vial for controlled depth) and layered applications of Obagi Blue Peel Radiance.

BioRePeel Cl3 is a hybrid multi-acid TCA peel with regenerative ingredients, offering greater versatility than standard TCA formulations. Obagi’s Blue Peel range includes both the traditional TCA-based Blue Peel and the gentler tri-acid Radiance formula. Additionally, Medik8’s professional peels are highly customisable, with varied acid strengths and an advanced delivery system.

Pre-treatment considerations As chemical peels can be invasive procedures, careful preparation is essential to protect the skin and minimise the risk of complications.

To reduce the risk of complications, advise patients to avoid tanning, sunbeds and microdermabrasion for at least two weeks prior to treatment and to use daily broad-spectrum sun protection.11 As chemical peels increase photosensitivity, recently exposed or exfoliated skin is more susceptible to inflammation, PIH and uneven outcomes.11 One week before the peel, electrolysis, waxing, depilatory creams and depigmenting agents should be discontinued, while topical retinoids should be stopped at least three days beforehand.12 Electrolysis, waxing, depilatory creams and depigmenting agents should be discontinued one week before treatment, while topical retinoids should be 58

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stopped at least three days prior.12 These methods and agents can disrupt the skin barrier and increase sensitivity.12 Allowing adequate recovery time helps restore barrier function and ensures the skin can tolerate the peel safely and effectively.2 In some cases, priming the skin with agents such as glycolic acid or hydroquinone may be recommended to optimise results, unless contraindicated.2 A full medical history and medication review must be undertaken on the day of treatment, as factors such as recent isotretinoin use, photosensitising drugs or changes in health status can increase risks.2 Contraindications include pregnancy, breastfeeding, active skin infection or open wounds, photosensitivity disorders and a history of keloid scarring.2 Finally, patients should be counselled on realistic outcomes, potential downtime and expected side effects such as redness, peeling or temporary sensitivity. Thorough preparation and clear communication help ensure safe, predictable and satisfactory treatment results.5

Combining peels with other procedures Combining chemical peels with other dermatological procedures can offer synergistic benefits, leading to more comprehensive and enhanced results. However, patient suitability must be carefully assessed through an in-depth consultation to create a tailored plan that addresses individual skin types and concerns. The appropriate combination depends on factors such as the depth of the peel, the specific procedure selected and the desired outcome.

There is no universal protocol; each case must be evaluated individually, with a minimum interval of around six weeks between treatments to ensure optimal healing and safety.

Microneedling When performed after a chemical peel, microneedling can further boost collagen synthesis and enhance the benefits of the peel.13 The micro-channels created by microneedling also allow the peel’s active ingredients to penetrate more deeply, promoting greater skin rejuvenation.13 However, a minimum interval of six weeks between these treatments is recommended to reduce the risk of complications.13 Performing microneedling on freshly peeled skin significantly increases the likelihood of infection, scarring and PIH.14 Otherwise, there is no specific patient cohort excluded, as the treatment is suitable for all skin types and primarily serves to stimulate collagen production.14 Laser Combining chemical peels with fractional lasers or intense pulsed light (IPL) offers a synergistic approach to skin rejuvenation, addressing multiple concerns such as pigmentation, scarring, fine lines and uneven skin tone. Chemical peels refine the epidermis and improve surface texture, while energy-based devices penetrate deeper layers to stimulate collagen and target vascular or pigmentary issues.15,16 These combinations, however, increase the risk of adverse effects such as PIH, prolonged erythema, oedema, scarring and infection, particularly in individuals with darker skin types or a history of poor wound healing. Suitability should be carefully assessed – ideal candidates typically have lighter skin (FST I–III) with no active skin conditions or infections.

Contraindications include recent isotretinoin use, keloid scarring, active herpes simplex virus (HSV) and pregnancy.17 A clinical study supported the enhanced efficacy of such combinations, but emphasised the need for at least a six-week interval between procedures to allow full recovery and minimise cumulative trauma to the skin.18 Thorough pre-treatment assessment, photoprotection and patient education are essential to maximise outcomes and minimise complications. Treatment should always be tailored to the patient’s specific concerns – whether acne scarring, pigmentation or wrinkles – to ensure safe and optimal results.18 Botulinum toxin Botulinum toxin works by relaxing targeted facial muscles, thereby softening the appearance of dynamic wrinkles. When combined with chemical peels, it provides a synergistic approach – improving skin texture and tone while promoting a smoother, more youthful and radiant complexion.18 It can be performed in the same session as superficial peels; however, after medium or deep peels, it’s advisable to wait until the skin has fully healed.

Dermal fillers Dermal fillers are frequently used to restore facial volume, smooth out wrinkles and improve overall symmetry. When combined with chemical peels, these treatments can work synergistically, enhancing collagen stimulation with peels and delivering results that are often Aesthetics | January 2026

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superior to either modality used alone. For superficial peels, dermal fillers can be done on the same day but for medium and deep peels, it is advisable to wait till skin fully recovers.19 LED light therapy LED light therapy uses different wavelengths of light – most commonly red (633 nm) and blue (415 nm) – to address skin concerns such as acne and inflammation.9 Following a superficial chemical peel, LED therapy can be applied immediately to promote healing, reduce inflammation, calm redness and enhance the overall benefits of the peel.9 However, after medium or deep peels, LED therapy should be delayed until complete re-epithelialisation has occurred to avoid complications like PIH, delayed healing and scarring.9 Platelet-rich plasma therapy Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy harnesses the body’s natural healing by concentrating platelets from the patient’s blood and injecting them into targeted tissues.20 Platelets contain growth factors such as platelet-derived growth factor, transforming growth factor-beta, vascular endothelial growth factor and epidermal growth factor, which stimulate fibroblasts, collagen synthesis, angiogenesis and cellular proliferation, promoting skin rejuvenation, improved texture and accelerated healing.21,22 Safety protocols include sterile technique, screening for blood-borne infections, and avoiding treatment in patients with platelet dysfunction, active infections or certain systemic diseases.21,22 When combined with a chemical peel, PRP can enhance rejuvenation.22 Applied after a superficial peel, it accelerates healing and improves skin tone and texture, complementing the peel’s effects.22 PRP should be avoided immediately after medium or deep peels, as the compromised skin barrier increases risk.23 Topical skincare Basic skincare like gentle cleanser, bland moisturiser and SPF can typically be used on the same day or within 24 hours. To prevent irritation, delayed healing or hyperpigmentation,

Side effects of chemical peels The severity and type of side effects can depend on the depth of the peel (superficial, medium or deep) and the individual’s skin type and condition.

Temporary side effects

Serious side effects

Temporary side effects can occur with any type of peel. The skin may become more sensitive to sunlight and certain skincare products.26 The treated area might appear lighter or darker than usual for a short period, usually between seven to 10 days.26,27 As the skin heals, scabbing or crusting may develop, but these effects tend to resolve gradually in a few weeks.26,27

Although uncommon, serious side effects can occur with chemical peels. Deep peels carry a higher risk of scarring, particularly on the lower face or in individuals with darker skin tones as darker skin has more active melanocytes and more fibroblast activity, which can lead to PIH.9,28 Infections may develop if bacteria enter the treated area, especially when the skin is ulcerated.9,28

Common side effects Redness at the treatment site is common, particularly after medium and deep chemical peels, and may persist for several days, weeks or in some cases even months.28 As the skin begins to peel, dryness and flaking are also expected.28 Deeper treatments are more likely to cause swelling, especially around the eyes, as the skin in this area is among the thinnest on the body, and has minimal subcutaneous fat.28 Mild itching, tingling or a burning sensation may occur during or shortly after the procedure.28 Regular use of emollients, cool compresses and strict sun protection are essential for managing these symptoms and supporting recovery.28

Chemical peels can also trigger reactivation of HSV forming as cold sores due to disruption in the skin barrier and triggering inflammation. This risk should be discussed before treatment, and prophylactic antiviral medication may be prescribed if appropriate.9,28 Persistent redness is another potential side effect, more frequently associated with deeper peels.9,28 Some patients may also experience extended sensitivity to sunlight and other environmental factors.9,29 These risks can largely be prevented through careful selection of patients, appropriate products and the correct application technique.9,28

Aesthetics | January 2026

Treatment Focus Chemical Peels patients should avoid ingredients like AHA, butylated hydroxyanisole, hydroquinone and tretinoin for at least five to seven days, until the skin barrier has repaired.24 Recommended products include Heliocare 360 Gel Oil-Free SPF 50, Epionce Milky Lotion Cleanser, Medik8 Gentle Cleanse and Medik8 Total Moisture Daily Facial Cream.

Aftercare Immediately after a chemical peel, skin is more susceptible to damage and requires gentle care and protection. Following a proper aftercare routine will promote healing, reduce the risk of complications and maximise the peel’s results.

Gentle cleansing and moisturising are key during this time to maintain the skin’s moisture barrier and support the healing process. Direct sun exposure should be avoided, as UV rays can significantly impact the healing process and potentially cause hyperpigmentation.7 Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 daily is essential.

To enhance the healing process and nourish the skin, incorporating specific ingredients in aftercare routines can be highly beneficial.25 Moisturisers and serums containing hyaluronic acid, ceramides and natural oils can provide deep hydration and support the skin’s barrier function.25 Antioxidants like vitamin C and green tea extract help protect against free radicals and promote collagen production.25 Additionally, incorporating soothing ingredients such as aloe vera or chamomile can help alleviate any residual redness or inflammation.25

Integrating peels into practice A chemical peel is an effective rejuvenation and restorative cosmetic procedure that help to address various skin concerns like ageing, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, acne and uneven skin texture. With a choice of variable strength and depth of peels available, it makes it a widely useful procedure for all skin types. With thorough consultation, skin assessment and selection of the correct products, excellent results can be achieved with the peels alone or in combination with another treatment.

Dr Aiza Jamil is a consultant dermatologist in Manchester based at sk:n clinics, and holds an American board certification in cosmetic and medical laser.

Specialising in non-surgical facelifts, full-face harmonisation and lasers for skin rejuvenation and scarring, Dr Jamil also has diplomas in nutrition, psychology, business administration and leadership management.

Qual: MBBS, FRCP, CCT (UK)

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Enhancing the patient journey

Sculptra: Where Regeneration Meets Aesthetic Precision The regenerative power of Sculptra for youthful-looking skin In the ever-evolving world of medical aesthetics, the demand for treatments that not only restore youthful contours but also improve the skin's quality at a deeper level continues to grow. Pharmaceutical company Galderma’s Sculptra, the first proven regenerative biostimulator, offers healthcare professionals (HCPs) a powerful tool that goes beyond temporary volume replacement – by stimulating the body’s own collagen and elastin production and skin thickness, it provides natural-looking, long-lasting rejuvenation.

Unlocking the science of regeneration Sculptra is unique in the field of aesthetic injectables. Unlike traditional fillers that rely solely on volume replacement, Sculptra works by harnessing the body’s natural regenerative processes. It stimulates fibroblasts to produce collagen – the essential protein responsible for skin strength and elasticity. In a study that initially screened 44 subjects, 17 qualified, and 14 subjects ultimately received injectable PLLA and completed the treatment – meeting the required sample size to yield 10 evaluable subjects. Results showed 66.5% increase in collagen three months post treatment, along with a 34% improvement in elastin quality and a 26.1% increase in skin thickness after nine months.1 These results translate into firmer, radiant skin that maintains its youthful appearance for over two years.

Dr MJ Rowland-Warmann, dentist, aesthetic practitioner and key opinion leader (KOL) for Galderma, has extensive experience using Sculptra. She shares, “Sculptra has a proven 25-year track record, which in aesthetics is extraordinary. For me, it is the most reliable biostimulator because its mechanism of action is so well understood. It delivers natural, progressive results that respect the patient’s facial identity, and it continues to perform consistently across different ages and skin types.”

The regenerative approach of Sculptra enhances the patient experience significantly. Patients appreciate the natural, progressive improvement without the abrupt changes often associated with other injectables. This subtlety allows for discreet rejuvenation, which can be particularly appealing to those seeking to maintain a natural appearance.

Dr Rowland-Warmann notes, “I often use the ‘one vial per decade lived’ framework as a starting point. From there, treatment planning depends on skin quality, laxity and the degree of structural support required. A patient in their 50s, for example, may begin with two vials in the first session and then continue with one to two vials at subsequent visits depending on the level of correction needed. Younger patients in their 30s who want a refreshed glow rather than structural correction may only need one vial over two sessions.”

As the first regenerative biostimulator proven to deliver long-lasting, natural results, Sculptra offers a valuable addition to the aesthetic toolbox. Its scientifically backed performance, combined with versatility, means it can be incorporated into a wide range of treatment plans tailored to patient-specific needs.

Taking the next step with Sculptra For HCPs interested in exploring the regenerative benefits of Sculptra and expanding their aesthetic offerings, reach out to your Galderma Account Manager today. Unlock the potential of collagen biostimulation and offer your patients a treatment that truly rejuvenates from within.

One product with many possibilities Sculptra is often described as “one product with many possibilities.” This versatile biostimulator can address a broad range of aesthetic concerns across different age groups and skin types.

· Improve skin quality: By increasing collagen and

elastin, Sculptra enhances the skin’s texture and resilience and reducing fine lines. · Provide youthful flow: The gradual collagen induction supports a smooth, natural contouring effect that complements facial expressions and movement. · Restore natural volume: Volume loss due to ageing can be subtly replenished, improving overall facial harmony without an overfilled look. · Provide lifting effect: The increased skin thickness and elasticity contribute to a noticeable lifting and firming effect, especially in the mid-face and jawline.

Depending on individual patient needs, treatment plans typically involve one to three sessions, spaced over several weeks to optimise collagen stimulation and patient experience.

Dr Rowland-Warmann adds, “One of the most common pieces of feedback is the improvement in luminosity; Sculptra gives a genuine radiance to the skin that patients describe as a “visible glow”. It’s subtle yet transformative, and the changes become more apparent over time as collagen production continues.”

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Aesthetics | January 2026

GB-SCU-2500023 DOP Jan 2026 Adverse events should be reported. For the UK, Reporting forms and information can be found at www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store.

For Ireland, Suspected adverse events can be reported via HPRA Pharmacovigilance, Website: www.hpra.ie; Adverse events should also be reported to Galderma (UK) Ltd, Email: medinfo.uk@ galderma.com Tel: +44 (0) 300 3035674 References available upon request.

This advertorial is sponsored by Galderma.

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Clinical Papers Abstracts

A summary of the latest clinical studies Title: Research Hot Spots and Trends of Photoelectric Therapy in Facial Rejuvenation: A 20-Year Bibliometric Analysis Based on Web of Science Authors: Lei Guo, et al.

Published: Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, December 2025

Title: Multicenter Review of More Than 110,000 Facial Thread Lifting Cases From a Cosmetic Surgery Group

Authors: Takahiko Tamura, et al.

Published: Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Global Open, December 2025

Keywords: Longitudinal changes, Rejuvenation, Thread lift

Keywords: Bibliometric analysis, Facial rejuvenation, Skin resurfacing This study aims to construct a visual map of photoelectric therapy for facial rejuvenation through bibliometric analysis, systematically analyzing current research hotpots and future prospects in the field.

Publications related to photoelectric therapy for facial rejuvenation from the Web of Science Core Collection database were extracted for the years 2004-2023. Annual publication rates increased steadily before 2014 and showed fluctuations thereafter. “Lasers in Surgery and Medicine” had the highest publication output, while “Dermatologic Surgery” had the highest citation or co-citation frequency. The top 5 keywords by frequency were “laser,” “skin,” “skin rejuvenation,” “efficiency,” and “rejuvenation.” Analysis of research trends highlighted “safety,” “efficiency,” and “prevention” as prominent topics over the past decade, underscoring current research interests in photoelectric therapy. Our research indicates that a focus on safety, efficacy, personalized experiences, and the combined application of various anti-aging techniques represents the current and future development trends and research directions in photoelectric therapy for facial rejuvenation.

Title: Clinical Evaluation of a 1060-Nm Laser for Non-Invasive Fat Reduction of the Abdomen and Coulotte/Thighs in Men and Women Authors: Paolo Bonan, et al.

Published: Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, December 2025 Keywords: Fat reduction, Laser, Non-surgical This study evaluates the use of a 1060-nm laser system equipped with a temperature detector, for non-invasive fat reduction of the female and male abdomen and female culottes and thighs, which represent the prevalent areas among individuals requiring cosmetic contouring. A total of 20 male and 40 female patients who were considering lipolysis without invasive procedures of the abdomen and coulottes/thighs areas were treated with a 1060-nm laser system. All patients underwent 4 laser treatment sessions spaced at least 4-6 weeks apart. The study’s endpoints were photographic investigations by independent blinded physicians at 3 months follow-up, screening for adverse effects, abdomen and coulotte/ thighs circumference measurements, BMI, and 4-point Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS). Clinical measurements were evaluated before (T0) and at 3 months follow-up after the last laser treatment session (Tf).During the entire laser treatment, the skin temperature remained below 40°C, demonstrating the safety of the study device in preserving the skin from thermal damage. Clinician assessment from the photographic investigation, GAIS, BMI and circumference mean values showed good efficacy of laser treatment and visible aesthetic results for abdomen and coulotte/thighs areas both in men and women.

This study aimed to evaluate longitudinal changes in facial thread lifting use, patient demographics, procedural composition, and combination treatments across a nationwide cosmetic surgery network during a 5-year period. We retrospectively analyzed 111,948 facial thread lifting procedures performed between 2020 and 2024 across more than 100 Tokyo Central Cosmetic Surgery Group clinics. Statistical analyses included the Kruskal-Wallis test with Bonferroni-adjusted post hoc comparisons for age-related trends. Procedure volumes increased during the 5-year period, as did the median patient age (P < 0.001), with procedural patterns shifting toward an older demographic. Seven procedural combinations were identified, with polydioxanone + polycaprolactone threads being the most common. The use of nonabsorbable threads increased substantially, with more than 60% of patients undergoing thread lifting with additional treatments, such as fillers or toxins. Thread lifting is increasingly used as part of multimodal facial rejuvenation strategies, with trends toward older patient populations and broader procedural integration. These findings highlight the evolving role of thread lifting in evidence-based aesthetic medicine.

Title: Deep Labial Fat Filler Technique for Effective Lip Eversion Authors: Gi-Woong Hong, et al.

Published: The Journal of Craniofacial Surgery, December 2025 Keywords: Dermal fillers, Hyaluronic acid, Lip rejuvenation Traditional augmentation focused on superficial volumization can blur aesthetic landmarks and fail to restore eversion. The authors describe a targeted, anatomy-guided technique that deposits hyaluronic acid filler into the suborbicularis oris (deep labial) fat through an intramucosal approach at the dry-wet border to re-establish deep structural support and achieve lip eversion while preserving the vermilion breakpoints and Cupid bow. The protocol emphasizes preprocedure symmetry assessment, conservative aliquots (typically 0.5-1.0 mL per lip per session, e.p.t.q.® Lidocaine S 300, JETEMA Co., Ltd. Korea), choice of filler with balanced viscoelasticity and high cohesion for dynamic function, and plane-specific delivery using either needle for focal shaping or cannula for safer broad eversion. Practical safety measures include avoidance of commissural entry points, awareness of variable superior and inferior labial arterial courses, and staged dosing to minimize surface irregularity and overprojection. In clinical practice, this deep-plane strategy improves vermilion show, border definition, and commissure orientation with a natural feel and motion. The authors propose this approach as a reproducible method that aligns with contemporary fat-compartment aging models and may reduce complications associated with superficial overfilling.

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Business Strategy Social Media

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Harnessing Instagram for Clinic Success Consulting and marketing specialist Rachel Riley provides guidance for standing out on Instagram In today’s competitive aesthetics market, a strong social media presence is essential for both new and established businesses. Among popular platforms such as TikTok, Facebook and Twitter, Instagram stands out as the most engaging and influential, with an average engagement rate of 3.5%, higher than Facebook’s 1.3%, TikTok’s 1.5% and LinkedIn’s 3.4%.1 More than just a place to share beautiful images, Instagram is a powerful marketing tool that can elevate your brand visibility, acquire new patients and strengthen engagement with your audience. According to a UK survey, out of 2,000 aesthetic clinics, 44.7% report gaining new patients directly from Instagram, with most receiving between one to 10 new patient enquiries per month from social-media activity.2,3

Defining your goals A successful Instagram strategy begins with clear goals, and these goals shape every decision you make. For example, if a clinic wants to increase bookings by 25% in three months, the strategy must outline how to achieve this through targeted ads, compelling content and focused outreach. Without defined objectives, it’s easy to prioritise likes and follower counts without understanding whether they contribute to real business results. Clear goals also make it easier to choose meaningful metrics, such as reach for brand awareness, website clicks for lead generation or engagement rate for community building.

Start by deciding what you want to achieve. Do you want to boost brand awareness, attract new patients or strengthen relationships with existing ones? Perhaps you aim to build a loyal community. These decisions guide your messaging, content types, platform priorities and success measurements.

Additionally, building a recognisable identity is a key aspect of defining your goals. A cohesive brand identity increases recognition and trust – key drivers of patient acquisition.

Aim to post three to five times per week, as opposed to than posting multiple lower-quality updates each day - prioritising quality over quantity.4 Ensure your visuals (logo, colour palette, layout) and your tone of voice (friendly, professional, educational or a blend) remain consistent across all posts. Research indicates that medical practitioners who appear on camera build greater trust, relatability and audience engagement, helping to establish a credible online presence.5,6 Evidence also suggests that video content humanises clinicians and supports public understanding of health information, provided professional standards and confidentiality are maintained.5-7

Understanding your audience To reach your audience effectively on Instagram, it helps to understand who they are and how they interact with your content.8 Instagram Insights provides metrics across posts, stories and reels – such as views, likes, shares and reach – allowing you to identify what performs well and refine your strategy.8 The tool also offers demographic data, including age, gender and location, alongside behavioural patterns and interest signals relevant to aesthetics and wellness.8 These insights highlight whether followers respond more to video or static content, helping you shape posts that feel relevant, strengthen engagement and build long-term trust and credibility.8 Alongside Instagram Insights, a new feature called the ‘Friends’ tab has been introduced within Reels.9 When you open Reels and select the ‘Friends’ tab, you can view content that your followers have liked, commented on or reposted.9 This feature offers valuable insight into which types of content resonate with different patient demographics, which posts perform most effectively and how engagement spreads.9 It also boosts content visibility, as posts are more likely to be seen by mutual followers – potentially increasing reach within patient networks.9

Leveraging content to enhance visibility When establishing your presence on social media, it’s important to familiarise yourself with the several features that Instagram offers.

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Reels and posts Reels boost discoverability, whether short, high-impact videos or longer educational clips, typically boosting by around 1.23%, outperforming image posts.10-12 Reels tend to achieve significantly higher reach than static posts. One analysis found that Reels generate approximately 36% more than carousels and up to 125% more than single-image posts, often generating stronger engagement. This makes them an effective format for attracting new and broader audiences.12-16 Stories and Highlights Stories support real-time interaction through features such as polls, Q&As and quick updates, while Highlights keep key information – including services, FAQs or reviews – easily accessible. Appearing at the top of users’ feeds, Stories help maintain visibility among existing followers and encourage direct, ongoing engagement.17 Instagram Live The Instagram Live feature can support aesthetic clinics by increasing real-time visibility and presenting practitioners as accessible experts. Live broadcasts are prioritised in the feed and can draw additional viewers through notifications.

Demonstrating treatments, answering questions or discussing skincare topics in real time helps build trust, demonstrate expertise and strengthen overall online presence.

Instagram Shopping If your clinic sells products, Instagram Shopping can streamline purchases, though prescription-only medicines or treatments must not be advertised or sold to the public through the platform.18 Always consult manufacturers before promoting retail products. Under UK law, any cosmetic sold online must be registered with the Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) via the Submit Cosmetic Product Notification (SCPN) before retail. The seller must act as the legally designated ‘Responsible Person’ or having the manufacturer’s authorisation.18

Creating quality content Patients considering aesthetic treatments value accuracy, detail and professionalism, making high-quality visuals and informative posts essential. To stand out in a competitive market, your content should consistently showcase expertise, results and the unique value your clinic offers.

Content types and delivery formats Educational posts – such as treatment explanations, skin tips or step-by-step guides – position you as a specialist and attract followers seeking credible

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information. Begin with an attention-grabbing hook, share clear and actionable insights and end with a strong call to action to boost engagement.

Before-and-after images not only highlight results but also act as powerful testimonials.

Complement these with patient stories, reviews and behind-the-scenes content to humanise your brand and make prospective patients feel more comfortable. Simple videos showing a day in clinic, “Treatment of the month,” or team introductions can strengthen trust without revealing any private information.19 Instagram Q&As encourage engagement, foster community, and allow you to address patient concerns directly. Early evenings are generally the best time to host them, though reviewing your audience insights will help you pinpoint optimal timing.20 Promotions, like giveaways or campaigns and offers, such as discounts or referral incentives, can boost engagement and drive bookings. However, it’s important to reflect on the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) guidelines, as all promotional activity must be clear, accurate and not misleading.12 Always state terms and conditions, ensure transparency and label content appropriately with hashtags such as ‘ad’ or ‘promotion.’21

Boosting visibility and reach Multiple strategies can help strengthen your brand’s visibility and extend its reach.

Collaborative partnerships

Business Strategy Social Media audience tags, and create a unique branded hashtag to foster community.

Considering different clinic structures Regardless of clinic size, a content calendar simplifies Instagram management and prevents last-minute content pressure.

Scheduling tools, such as Hootsuite or Later, save time and allow greater focus on patients and business growth. Smaller clinics may allocate around an hour daily to social media, while larger clinics can implement structured campaigns with scheduled posts. All clinics benefit from monthly content planning, treating content creation like meetings and outsourcing support where appropriate.

Collaborating with influencers can increase brand visibility.

· Micro-influencers are ideal for local clinics due to their niche audiences and

higher engagement. · Macro-influencers offer wider reach but at higher cost.

Partnerships may involve gifted treatments in exchange for posts, stories or reels, and smaller clinics can begin by approaching aligned local influencers or attending networking events. Authentic content comes from real experiences, so prioritise user-generated posts from genuine patients. Choose individuals whose values and aesthetic style align with your brand, and allow them to share their experience in their own voice. Avoid over-editing, as behind-the-scenes clips, honest progress updates and patient-led storytelling tend to feel more credible. When collaborations arise from genuine satisfaction rather than incentives, the resulting content is more organic, relatable and impactful.24 Influencers and clinics in the aesthetics sector must follow ASA and the UK Code of Non-broadcast Advertising and Direct & Promotional Marketing (CAP Code) guidelines, including clear advertising disclosures, accurate evidence-based claims and careful use of before-and-after imagery.25 Both parties share responsibility, with extra restrictions for cosmetic procedures or prescription-only products.25 Updated algorithms Instagram regularly update algorithms and features, and monitoring competitors can reveal effective strategies to adapt for your brand. Before adopting a trend, consider its relevance to your audience, engagement potential, time investment and how competitors are responding.

Use polls and engagement metrics to gauge interest, and if you proceed, track results to refine your approach for future campaigns.

Leveraging paid advertisement Exploring paid advertising can significantly amplify your reach. Instagram paid ads allow businesses to target specific audiences based on demographics, interests, behaviours and location, reaching potential customers beyond existing followers. Ad formats include photo, video and carousel, offering creative ways to showcase services. Paid content typically differs from organic posts by being more promotional, often featuring clear calls to action to drive engagement, bookings or website visits.

Advertisers can set daily or total campaign budgets and choose automatic or manual bidding.26 Paid ads also provide detailed performance metrics, enabling businesses to track results and refine strategies.26 Unlike organic content, which primarily engages current followers, paid advertising expands visibility and can attract new patients.26 Costs vary depending on targeting, ad format and competition, but even small budgets can generate measurable results.26 Overall, paid advertising is a powerful tool to boost brand awareness and engagement when used strategically.

Using hashtags effectively Hashtags are another important aspect to consider; using branded and popular hashtags can elevate your reach and attract the right patient base.27 Research competitors, use Instagram’s search suggestions and tools like Hashtagify to find effective hashtags. Mix broad and niche Aesthetics | January 2026

Content formats to build strategy Using a variety of formats helps diversify reach and engagement. · Grid posts for polished imagery and evergreen content · Reels for high-impact short videos or informative longer clips · Stories and Highlights for interactive, time-sensitive updates · Carousels for step-by-step education or case studies Under UK GDPR, patient images must be stored securely, accessed only by authorised individuals and deleted when no longer required.

Always obtain explicit consent before sharing.22,23

Enhancing your online presence A comprehensive social media strategy – defining goals, understanding your audience, creating quality content and using feedback – positions your aesthetics brand competitively. Treating social media strategically, rather than as an afterthought, is essential.

Rachel Riley is the founder and director of digital marketing agency Luxe Cosmetic Consulting, leveraging over a decade of global experience in the health, beauty and aesthetics sector.

With a bachelors degree in Economics from The University of Manchester she specialises specifically in transforming aesthetic businesses.

Qual: BA (Hons)

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Utilising Competitor Analysis Director and founder of Aesthetic Response Gilly Dickons breaks down why competitor analysis is essential and how clinics can put it into practice In today’s competitive aesthetic landscape, understanding your competitors isn’t just a nice-to-have, it’s essential. This is because the UK aesthetics market estimates to have grown by 8.4% in 2024, creating greater competitive pressure from both medical and non-medical practitioners.1 This article offers a practical step-by-step guide for conducting competitor analysis effectively, helping you turn insights into meaningful action to elevate your brand and enhance patient experience.

Why competitor analysis matters A clear competitor analysis can support revenue growth, patient retention and overall return of investment (ROI) by exposing what patients respond to, what services are saturated and where genuine opportunities exist for differentiation. Competitor analysis involves systematically reviewing other providers’ service offerings, pricing, positioning, branding, patient experience and online presence to understand how your clinic compares within the local market.

Unlike general healthcare, medical aesthetics is highly patient driven. Patients are heavily influenced by branding, online reputation, treatment positioning and social proof rather than clinical credentials alone.2 Social proof, including reviews, testimonials, before-and-after images and patient-generated content, plays a crucial role in shaping trust.

Define your competitors To begin a competitor analysis, start by identifying five to 10 competitors in your area. It can be useful to use sites such as Google, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook to examine clinics serving similar demographics. You can gauge this by assessing the type of content they post, the patient age groups featured, comments on social posts and the branding tone they use.

Research and data collection Once you have identified your competitors, segment them as follows:

· Direct: Those who offer similar services and the same demographic as your clinic · Indirect: Those who offer only a partial service overlap · Aspirational: The clinics you aim to benchmark toward Online visibility It is worth noting which clinics consistently appear in Google searches for your key treatments, and whether any non-medical practitioners are operating within the same niche. A recent national study profiling UK injectable-aesthetic practitioners found that the workforce includes a wide range of provider backgrounds – not only doctors, nurses and dentists but also non-medical practitioners offering the same treatments.3 Their presence means that patients may encounter similar services delivered at differing levels of training and oversight, often accompanied by lower price points, high-volume business models or more aggressive marketing. This can influence expectations around cost, availability and treatment frequency, shaping how patients compare medically led clinics with other providers in the market.

Evaluate online presence and reviews For many prospective patients a clinics online presence is the first and sometimes the only impression prospective patients receive before making contact, thus making digital performance a core driver of trust.4 When assessing competitors, look beyond how their websites feel and instead examine measurable performance indicators such as mobile responsiveness, page-load speed, SEO strength and keyword rankings. These factors directly influence how discoverable a clinic is on search engines and how likely a user is to stay on the page rather than bounce off.

For social media it may be useful to analyse data points that reflect how effectively competitors reach and engage with their audience. These data points include posting frequency, average engagement rate, video vs. static performance and growth trends in follower count. Consider metrics such as likes, comments, shares and saves as indicators of how compelling their content is and how well it aligns with patient interests.

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Data Analysis Competitive Edge Review platforms also offer quantifiable insight into patient experience and reputation. Assess competitors’ average star ratings, review volume and patterns in feedback on platforms such as Google and Trustpilot.

Combining these performance indicators allows you to build a clear picture of where your clinic stands. These insights can feed directly into a 90-day improvement plan, helping you set measurable goals such as improving engagement rates by 15-20%.

Experience their customer journey Looking at your clinic through the eyes of a patient can reveal gaps you might not otherwise see. Start by browsing your competitors’ websites, submitting an enquiry and reviewing their social platforms to evaluate responsiveness, friendliness and clarity. When done respectfully and without misrepresentation, this can be an acceptable and professional way to analyse the competition.

Pay attention to the structure of their website. Are prospective patients able to navigate it with ease and is the treatment information clear and accessible? Are prices transparent and are before-and-after images consistent? Identifying strengths or weaknesses in these areas can highlight opportunities for your clinic to improve.

Finally, take note of how they handle enquiries and any online booking systems.

Are they responding within one to two hours? Do they sound friendly, informative and confident? Is the initial reply followed by a personalised message or an automated email sequence? Understanding this helps you benchmark your own responsiveness and tone. Clinics that reply quickly and warmly are more likely to convert enquiries, foster early trust and reduce the likelihood of prospective patients drifting to competitors.

Evaluate the additional patient-support tools they offer such as FAQ libraries, chatbots, AI assistants or treatment guides that help patients get instant answers. These features reduce friction, reassure patients and give the impression of a well-organised, patient-centred clinic.

It’s also valuable to assess the payment systems your competitors use – whether platforms such as Fresha, Stripe or GoCardless, or more flexible financing options like instalment plans, membership models or buy-now-pay-later solutions.

Specialty data from the medical aesthetics sector highlights that flexible payment models can increase treatment accessibility by reducing the upfront financial barriers that often prevent patients from booking.5 When competitors offer smooth or more flexible payment experiences, they may be removing friction points that discourage 67

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commitment, particularly for higher-value treatment plans. Understanding this helps you evaluate whether your own payment options support or limit patient uptake.

Analyse brand messaging and positioning Brand positioning plays a crucial role in the type of patient you attract. A luxury-led brand will naturally appeal to lifestyle-driven patients seeking exclusivity, while a science-focused clinic tends to draw those who prioritise safety, expertise and clinical rigour.6 When reviewing competitors, pay attention to the tone and personality of their messaging.

Does it feel clinical and evidence-based, high-end and aspirational, warm and approachable or deliberately budget-friendly? Comments, testimonials and general patient feedback can reveal how their messaging is perceived – not just how they intend it to sound. A provider may present itself as luxury, but feedback about rushed appointments can undermine that positioning.

It is also useful to evaluate the language style such as taglines and key phrases they use as it can expose brands promise and the connection they are trying to build with patients.

Imagine two competing clinics offering the same treatments:

· Clinic A uses taglines like “Natural enhancement for real people” and “Subtle results

that feel like you.” Their content uses warm, conversational language and focuses on confidence, comfort and small refinements. Patient comments often mention feeling “listened to,” “not pressured,” and that results “look like me, just refreshed.” · Clinic B, however, uses phrases such as “Advanced aesthetic science” and “Clinically optimised results.” Their messaging leans heavily on technical terminology, showcasing devices, qualifications and treatment protocols. In their reviews, patients highlight that they “trust the medical expertise” and “appreciate the scientific approach.”

These taglines and language choices clearly signal different brand promises:

· Clinic A aims to attract patients seeking subtlety, reassurance and emotional comfort. · Clinic B appeals to patients who value medical authority, precision and evidence-based care.

To see how your brand compares to competitors, try mapping key areas using a simple traffic-light system: green = strong, amber = average, red = weak.

Assess three aspects against three competitors: Assess three key aspects against three competitors, including the tone of voice, use of before-and-after imagery and speed of enquiry response. Most clinics benefit from striking a balance that maintains credibility while remaining approachable. If you are struggling to differentiate yourself, AI tools such as ChatGPT or Claude can help identify clear points of difference and distinctive messaging.

Compare service offerings and pricing Understanding local pricing is essential in preventing under-pricing and potential damage to perceived quality, or overpricing, which can reduce competitiveness.

Pricing too low can unintentionally signal lower expertise, while pricing too high may limit your appeal, especially if nearby clinics offer similar treatments at more accessible rates.

If a competitor raises their prices this may give you the chance to refine your pricing or reinforce the value you offer, such as emphasising higher service quality or doctor- or nurse-led care. It’s important to review pricing at least once a year and noting how competitors use loyalty schemes, packages and seasonal promotions. These strategies can strengthen patient retention, attract first-time patients, create steadier revenue and ultimately increase lifetime value.7 A competitor might offer a loyalty programme where patients earn points for every treatment – redeemable against discounts, complimentary skincare products or reductions on future appointments. In many service industries, research shows that such loyalty programmes significantly increase customer retention and encourage repeat bookings by reinforcing a sense of value and reward.8 Over time, even modest savings – for example a patient receiving anti-wrinkle injections three times per year accumulating enough points to save £30-£50 annually – may foster loyalty through perceived value. The psychological effect of being rewarded for ongoing commitment can make patients far less likely to switch clinics for minor price differences.9 Another common model is a membership plan, where patients pay a monthly fee in exchange for reduced treatment rates, priority booking, complimentary consultations and regular skin maintenance treatments.

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Data Analysis Competitive Edge This not only improves patient retention but also smooths out seasonal dips by guaranteeing a steady flow of income throughout the year.

Understand their USP Identify what makes each competitor standout such as signature treatments, media features, extended hours or boutique interiors. These factors matter because a strong USP clarifies your value, sets expectations and guides patient choice in a crowded market.10 Here’s an example of a USP for an aesthetic clinic with a nurse practitioner offering Morpheus8: Morpheus8 treatments performed exclusively by an advanced nurse practitioner ensuring safe, outcome-driven results. This highlights professional qualifications, differentiates from competitors aestheticians and appeals to safety-conscious and results-orientated patients.

Considerations For smaller clinics and solo practitioners, effective competitor analysis is still entirely possible using low-cost or free tools. Free SEO platforms such as Google Search Console and the free tier of Ubersuggest can help you understand which keywords you currently rank for and where competitors may be outperforming you.

Free review-monitoring options – including Google Alerts or simply checking Google Business Profile and Trustpilot weekly – allow you to keep track of patient sentiment in your area without additional cost implications. Simple engagement tracking on social media (e.g., noting which posts receive the most likes, shares or comments) provides insights into what resonates with your audience and how your content compares with competitors.

Bringing everything together Competitor analysis enables you to understand your market, define your strengths and build a more compelling patient experience. It provides insights into pricing, positioning, messaging, patient experience and emerging trends – all of which help you attract your ideal patients and grow your clinic sustainably..

Gilly Dickons is the founding director of Aesthetic Response.

With over a decade and a half of experience supporting clinics in patient communication, Dickons and her team empower aesthetic professionals to build strong, responsive and trusted brands.

Qual: BA (Hons)

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Building Community Preserving Wellbeing

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The commercial value of community

Rebuilding Community in Medical Aesthetics Nurse prescriber Julie Scott discusses the need to rebuild community in medical aesthetics Medical aesthetics has always been a sector driven by innovation, education and the shared desire to help patients feel more confident in their own skin. In recent years, a subtle shift has taken place within the culture of our profession. Many practitioners report feeling increased pressure to compete, heightened comparison with peers and a fear of falling behind in a sector that never seems to slow. What used to feel like a supportive professional landscape can, at times, feel more like a race. In that environment, business decisions are often made more reactively, with less space for collaboration, reflection or shared learning. And when the pace accelerates, the community often becomes the first casualty.

Yet from a professional, ethical and business standpoint, community is essential; it anchors us in our values and strengthens the foundations upon which safe practice depends. When practitioners feel connected rather than competitive, they tend to operate with greater consistency, clearer referral pathways and more confidence around complications, all of which support long-term patient loyalty and protect your clinic’s reputation. Perhaps now more than ever, we need to remind ourselves that aesthetics thrives when we thrive together. We need to reconnect with a simple principle – there is enough for everyone.

The rise of scarcity thinking Understandably, many practitioners feel pressure in the current landscape; to a greater degree, social media has shifted the cultural expectations of visibility. Every award announcement, speaking engagement, fully booked clinic screenshot and training highlight reel becomes a point of comparison. From the outside, it appears as though everyone else is thriving effortlessly. On the inside, however, many practitioners privately describe a sense of isolation, a feeling that they are working harder than ever, yet never quite measuring up.

These pressures contribute to a scarcity mindset: the belief that opportunities are limited, that success must be fought for and that other practitioners’ achievements represent a threat.

While understandable, this mindset is damaging. It can influence business decisions, narrowing focus and reducing the space for reflection, collaboration and sound clinical judgement. In turn, it drives defensive behaviour, reduces knowledge-sharing and can leave practitioners feeling unable to seek support when complications arise.

The irony is that aesthetics is not a finite marketplace. It is a steadily growing sector with expanding patient demand, increasing public awareness, and a widening appreciation for safe, ethical, psychology-informed practice. There is not only room for everyone, but there is a need for everyone.

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While community may sound like an emotional or interpersonal topic, the truth is that it is deeply connected to business success.

Clinics do not thrive in isolation; they thrive in ecosystems where trust, safety and professional respect are visible to patients. This might be through practitioners engaging with specialty events such as the Clinical Cosmetic Regenerative Congress (CCR), participating in shared educational sessions with the British Association of Medical Aesthetic Nurses (BAMAN) or the British College of Aesthetic Medicine (BCAM), building local referral networks, or collaborating across specialties to support the best outcome.

These visible connections reassure patients that their practitioner is part of a wider professional network who is committed to ongoing learning, accountability and appropriate referral, rather than working in isolation.

Patients are increasingly discerning. They want to know their practitioner is clinically skilled, professionally grounded, well-connected and part of a wider culture of safety. A practitioner who collaborates, refers appropriately, volunteers knowledge and supports others is perceived as credible and principled, which builds trust and encourages long-term patient relationships and retention.

Trust, rather than marketing, is what truly shapes medical aesthetics.

It underpins booking decisions, supports long-term retention, reduces complaints and strengthens reputation. In practice, retaining a patient through trust and continuity of care is far less costly than continually having to attract new ones. I have built my own practice around retention referral and time and it has reinforced that trust-led care is not only better for patients, but more sustainable for clinics too.

The emotional health of the practitioner matters One aspect of community often overlooked is the emotional wellbeing of practitioners. Many practitioners feel pressure to perform, remain visible and “keep up” with an evolving speciality.1 This burden affects decision-making, confidence and resilience.

Without appropriate support, sustained stress can lead to burnout, which in turn reduces clinical capacity, limits the number of patients a practitioner can safely see and increases the risk of inconsistency or error. Over time, this can impact patient experience, place strain on professional reputation and lead to disengagement from the very aspects of practice that once brought fulfilment.

Building a small tribe of trusted people to share the load with helps to counter this. When practitioners feel supported rather than isolated, emotional strain decreases, clarity improves and practice becomes more sustainable, both professionally and commercially.

Having colleagues you can call for advice, lean on and support you in return creates a sense of stability that protects both practitioner and patient. A professional network and a feeling of belonging are powerful buffers against burnout. Ethical clarity remains intact.

Community supports practitioners, which in turn strengthens patient safety.

The speciality we want to build Looking ahead five or 10 years, we have an important choice to make about the future culture of medical aesthetics. We can continue down a path where practitioners feel increasingly isolated, comparison dominates, and professional boundaries blur due to fear of “losing” patients to other clinics. That path is exhausting, unsustainable and ultimately damaging to patient safety. Or we can choose a different direction, one defined by collaboration, openness and the confidence to allow others to succeed without feeling diminished ourselves. This is not naïve optimism. It is the way medicine functions at its best. When practitioners share complication knowledge openly, the entire sector becomes safer.

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Building each other up strengthens and safeguards our profession.

When clinics refer patients to colleagues with specific expertise, outcomes and trust improve. My practice relies on patient retention and referral rather than traditional marketing. In a sector with unclear regulations and inconsistent recognition as a medical discipline, raising standards and collaborating openly on safety helps patients navigate complexity and choose practitioners they trust. This is the specialty we all benefit from and share responsibility to shape.

What rebuilding community looks like in practice Rebuilding community isn’t about token gestures or superficial networking. It is about small, everyday professional choices that quietly shape our field.

Specialty events Network is strengthened by showing up within the profession.

Attending specialty events, such as the Aesthetics Conference & Exhibition (ACE), creates opportunities to learn, connect and build relationships over time. Collaborative activities such as joint Continuing Professional Development (CPD) sessions, or rotational mentoring arrangements not only support learning and peer connection. They also make commercial sense, spreading educational costs, strengthening referral pathways and reinforcing professional trust across clinics. Engagement with reputable professional bodies further supports this, providing access to guidance, peer discussion and shared standards that reinforce medical aesthetics as the medical discipline it is.

Mentoring When newer injectors receive mentoring, they enter the speciality better prepared, which is why I devote time to supporting younger medical professionals through the Junior Trainee Mentorship Scheme and the Epiphany Programme. Both initiatives are designed to build a clear medical pathway in aesthetics and to position medical aesthetics as a recognised core medical competency. Alongside this, wider professional programmes and educational initiatives supported by organisations such as BAMAN and BCAM also play an important role in strengthening standards, supporting peer-learning and reinforcing a multi-disciplinary medical model. Together, these efforts help create a more connected, better prepared and ultimately safer profession.

Mentorship remains one of the most effective ways to strengthen community and safeguard the future of the speciality. Supporting newer practitioners through initiatives like Meet the Mentor at ACE or CCR helps embed ethical practice, good judgement and patient-centred care from the outset. Investing in those coming through the profession strengthens standards, confidence and continuity for everyone.

Online spaces Online professional spaces can also be valuable when used thoughtfully, offering forums for shared learning and perspective, particularly when navigating complex cases. As with in-person engagement, their value lies in meaningful contribution rather than visibility alone. Platforms such as the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS) offer members secure portals and discussion boards where practitioners share complex case insights, ethical considerations and emerging best practices.2 Referral One of the most tangible ways to rebuild community is through referral. Choosing to refer a patient to a colleague with specific expertise, rather than trying to manage everything alone, reflects professional confidence and prioritises patient outcomes. Building a referral network takes time and trust, but it reduces isolation and allows practitioners to practise more safely and sustainably.

Building Community Preserving Wellbeing

· Identify your gaps: Be honest about areas outside your core expertise or comfort zone where referral is appropriate. · Develop relationships: Reach out to trusted colleagues regularly, attend specialty events and join professional groups to build rapport. · Communicate clearly: When referring, explain to patients why you’re doing so and how it benefits their care – this builds trust and transparency. · Follow-up: Main communication with both patients and referred colleagues to monitor outcomes and reinforce collaboration. · Reciprocate: Offer to take referrals in your areas of strength to build mutual respect and a sustainable network.

From a business perspective, building a referral network is a strategic investment.

Wellbeing campaigns Finally, rebuilding community includes the quieter contributions that often go unseen: supporting safety and wellbeing campaigns, contributing to education, fundraising or providing care pro bono.

When practitioners feel comfortable asking for advice, sharing uncertainty and seeking support without judgement, practice becomes safer, more resilient and more human.

At its core, community is shaped by how we speak about one another and how we hold space for honesty. When practitioners can ask for advice without judgement, share uncertainty without fear and admit when they need support, practice becomes safer and more sustainable.

Choosing abundance For medical aesthetics to continue maturing as a credible, psychologically aware and safety-led medical field, rebuilding community is essential. It begins with recognising that fear, not competition, is the real enemy: fear of not being enough, not being visible enough or not being successful enough.

And the truth remains: there is enough for everyone. Enough work.

Enough opportunity. Enough growth. Enough space for every unique lens of clinical practice.

When we embrace this, we behave differently. We refer more confidently, collaborate more generously and communicate with more maturity. We create a landscape where practitioners feel supported, patients are safer and the speciality becomes stronger.

That is the future of medical aesthetics – a future shaped not by scarcity but by shared purpose, not by competition but by community and not by isolation but by integrity. There is enough for everyone, and together we can create a specialty that reflects these values.

Julie Scott is an aesthetic nurse with more than 30 years’ experience in plastics and aesthetics. She is twice Winner of Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner of the Year at The Aesthetics Awards (2022 and 2024). She’s co-chair of Wigmore Presents and Interface Expo, board member of DANAI and strategic and clinical lead in Aesthetics and Dermatology at The Skin Diary. She is an ambassador for the Joint Council for Cosmetic Practitioners (JCCP) and for Safer Aesthetic Practice with the Body Dysmorphic Disorder Foundation (BDDF), as well as a faculty member of the Allergan Medical Institute.

Qual: RGN, NIP, PGDip(Aes)

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Aesthetics | January 2026

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14 March 2026, Hilton Park Lane, London

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In Profile Dan Julien

“Medical aesthetics offers opportunities unlike any other specialty”

Julien recalls being captivated by the artistry of dermal fillers early on. Since he wasn’t allowed to discuss prescription treatments in his videos online, he decided to focus on fillers and became known as ‘the fillers guy.’

“That became my niche,” he says. “I gave anatomy lessons and shared my approach on how I was maintaining natural results.”

Nurse practitioner Dan Julien shares his convoluted journey into aesthetics and his educational content

In regard to skill gaps that Julien encounters when teaching, he witnesses many practitioners fearful of high-risk procedures, specifically regarding the nose, eyes, forehead and temple region for injection.

He notes, “I find that people are often afraid of these treatments because they’ve been taught to focus on everything that can go wrong. But when you explain the reasoning behind each step in a calm and reassuring way, it gives them a sense of security.”

linger in the back of his mind throughout his clinical roles.

Julien’s turning point came while teaching nursing students, when one of them asked why he wasn’t working in aesthetics.

Born and raised in Ontario, Canada, Dan Julien describes his journey as a true “rags to riches” story. Growing up, school was challenging for Julien and he was unable to initially apply to university like many of his peers. However, he was advised by a guidance counsellor to consider nursing.

“This was the late 90s and early 00s, I did not know of many men within the nursing specialty,” he recalls, “But the counsellor pushed for me to give it a go, so I thought what the hell – and went for it.” As a result, in 2001 he graduated from St Lawrence College with a nursing diploma.

In 2007, he enrolled in a bridging programme to complete a Bachelor of Science in Registered Nursing at the University of Ottawa. He then went on to later attend Laurentian University earning his nurse practitioner certificate in 2010.

After graduating, Julien spent 12 years with the University of Ottawa’s Health Services programme, providing primary care and specialising in hepatitis C, hepatitis B, fatty liver and HIV. Alongside this work, he juggled multiple positions within the University of Ottawa’s Health Services programme. Julien helped develop The Hepatitis C Programme for a pill capable of curing the infection, served as a director on the Family Health Team and was on the board for the University of Ottawa Health Services. Additionally, he coordinated a walk-in clinic, consulted on chart reviews and trained nursing students.

However, Julien was always interested in entrepreneurship after his father encouraged him to read Robert Kiyosaki’s Rich Dad Poor Dad as a teenager. The idea of owning his own business continued to

Julien had assumed that, like in a traditional state-run clinic, he would need to work alongside a physician partner to enter the field of aesthetics. However, the physicians he knew running clinics didn’t have the capacity to take him on, as Ottawa’s aesthetics market wasn’t as developed as the larger cities. What he didn’t realise, however, was that in the private sector, he could practice independently.

After confirming this revelation, Julien knew his life was about to change. “Suddenly, everything clicked into place. Here we are, in the capital of Canada, and medical aesthetics had not yet taken off. It was a massive opportunity. I just needed to ride the wave before it broke. So, I went all in,” he says.

Julien went on to train with the Canadian Board of Aesthetics Medicine and officially opened his clinic, Danesthetics Medical Design, in Ottawa in 2021.

In clinic, Julien loves performing injectable treatments. “Hyaluronic acid holds a special place in my practice because of its excellent safety profile,” he says. Beyond injectables, Julien is a strong advocate for combining lasers, microneedling and radiofrequency with a solid skincare routine. “People today are truly invested in their skin – much of that influence comes from the TikTok generation.

When you notice someone looking great, it’s often because their skin looks healthy and radiant,” he says.

Beyond his work in clinic Julien is a content creator. He makes educational videos through the subscription platform Patreon where he educates more than 1,000 physicians, nurses and dentists worldwide.

Originally starting out on YouTube in 2019, the idea of teaching aesthetics emerged early in his career, when he encountered a lack of knowledge being shared within the specialty. “No one likes to share what they know. At first, I found it frustrating, but then I realised it could work in my favour. So, I decided I’m going to be the one who shares it,” he explains.

Aesthetics | January 2026

Last year, Julien was the Headline Keynote Speaker of the Clinical Cosmetic Regenerative Congress (CCR) 2025, where he delivered a talk on Unlocking Success in Medical Aesthetics. He blended theory, patient assessment and live demonstrations on advanced injection methods to help attendees deliver precise and effective treatments. He reflects, “CCR was an incredible experience, exceptionally well organised, with great energy and a strong focus on innovation. The intimate scale made it easy to connect with providers, exchange ideas and have meaningful conversations.”

Going forward, Julien plans to extend his portfolio by introducing business-focused content to support aesthetic practitioners struggling with the operational side of running a clinic. “I’d like to help with a combination of things. From how to run a business and how to become successful to how to make money,” he says.

Looking ahead at the wider specialty, Julien adds, “Medical aesthetics offers opportunities to explore emerging technologies unlike any other specialty. This level of freedom will undoubtedly contribute to advancements and future breakthroughs for the field.”

What treatment or technology do you predict will trend in 2026?

Facelifts and injectables are both going to be big next year.

One thing people would be surprised to learn about you?

I have an essential tremor in my hand which I take medication for to calm.

What’s one piece of advice you would give for success?

You have to be prepared to work 10 times harder than the average person.

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The Last Word Compound Skincare

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Understanding the Compound Effect in Aesthetic Skincare Aesthetic nurse Juan Lopez argues that skincare consistency outperforms aggressive treatments for patient satisfaction In the aesthetics specialty, patient expectations often revolve around rapid results. From social media before and after images to marketing slogans, the narrative is dominated by instant transformations. Yet, after 15 years in clinical aesthetics, I have come to see that we don’t have a magic wand to repair or clear damaged skin. The most profound, long-lasting improvements in skin health are not the result of dramatic, one-off interventions, but of regular, gentle treatments compounded over time.

Compound interest At the heart of this argument lies the principle of compound interest. In finance, compound interest refers to the way small, regular deposits grow significantly over time because each gain builds upon the last. The growth may seem modest at first, but with consistency, the accumulated benefits become far greater than any single large investment.1 This principle translates directly to skincare outcomes: consistent, low-intensity treatments generate better and longer-lasting improvements than sporadic or aggressive interventions. Importantly, this approach aligns with emerging dermatological research. A review in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology highlighted that consistent, low-level therapies – including light-based treatments and non-ablative modalities – yielded superior improvements in skin barrier function and collagen density compared to high-frequency ablative techniques.2 This is what I refer to as the “compound benefit” – the visible and measurable enhancement in skin health that accrues through steady, repeated care.

In my clinic, we have observed that over a period of 12-24 months, patients exhibit sustained improvements that are rarely achievable with isolated, intensive procedures. Regular, gentle stimulation promotes collagen remodelling, balances sebum production and strengthens the skin barrier – all with minimal downtime and risk. This is supported by published evidence showing that microneedling, when performed regularly in a series of treatments, delivers noticeable improvements with minimal downtime and fewer side effects compared with more aggressive 74

modalities such as laser ablation or deep chemical peels.3 Unfortunately, I believe the aesthetics specialty still leans heavily toward the allure of short-term impact. Clinics often showcase dramatic before-and-after images derived from aggressive treatments, such as fractional lasers, that can carry higher risk, longer recovery periods and diminishing returns over time. This messaging fosters a mindset among both patients and practitioners that skincare is a reactive solution to visible problems rather than a proactive, preventative approach.

The argument for singular treatments Advocates for more singular treatments argue, not unreasonably, that patients often seek instant gratification. Events such as weddings, professional photoshoots or life milestones can justify wanting fast-acting enhancements. Deep chemical peels, fractional lasers, or injectable treatments do have their place in the aesthetic toolkit and can deliver impactful short-term results.

However, I believe practitioners should reserve these higher-intensity treatments for very specific situations. Primarily when a patient is starting from a point of significant skin damage, long-standing concerns, or has never had professional treatments before.

In these cases, a single, carefully selected intervention can help establish a strong baseline from which we can then build. In my opinion, once that foundation is set, the most effective and sustainable way to maintain and enhance those results is through regular, mild treatments. Higher-intensity procedures should be viewed as a potential ‘reset’, while the true, long-term transformation comes from consistency.

There’s also a commercial justification: high-ticket treatments can generate larger short-term profits for clinics. This financial incentive leads many clinics to prioritise these interventions. However, compound treatments across a long period of time can increase patient loyalty, trust and long-term revenue in a way that short, high-impact procedures rarely achieve.

Consistency does not offer the immediate, dramatic results that are easier to market on social media. Aggressive treatments appear more ‘exciting’ in before-and-after Aesthetics | January 2026

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images, making them commercially attractive for short-term sales. However, the long-term benefits of consistent care often far outweigh the appeal of a single dramatic image.

Going forward I do believe the specialty is beginning to move in the direction of compound skincare.

Skincare brands increasingly emphasise barrier repair, microbiome support and long-term skin health rather than aggressive resurfacing or stripping. For example, La Roche-Posay’s Toleriane and Cicaplast ranges focus on restoring barrier function through ceramides and niacinamide, while CeraVe’s formulations are built entirely around multi-ceramide technology. This shift is supported by dermatological research demonstrating that maintaining an intact barrier improves hydration, reduces inflammation and increases treatment tolerance over time.2,4 However, there is still a long way to go within clinics and marketing. To reshape this culture, I believe the specialty must shift toward re-educating both practitioners and patients. Clinics should reframe skincare as a long-term investment rather than a crisis intervention. Treatment plans must focus on maintenance, prevention, and the accumulation of benefits over time. For example, when a new patient comes to the clinic asking for a treatment to “fix” dryness, dullness, or breakouts before an event, the consultation becomes an opportunity to reframe expectations. Rather than offering a one-off procedure, it should be explained how skin behaves over a 28/42 day cycle, why quick fixes often provide only temporary improvement, and how regular monthly treatments gradually strengthen the barrier, improve texture and reduce inflammation.

Reframing the journey Consistency may not be glamorous, but it is powerful. By embracing a model grounded in regular, gentle treatments and championing consistency, I believe aesthetic practitioners can deliver outcomes that are not only effective, but sustainable.

Juan Lopez is a medical aesthetic nurse with over 15 years of clinical experience and founder of SkinMedico in Chiswick, London. Known for his patient-centred philosophy, he specialises in regenerative skin treatments and long-term care treatment planning strategies.

Qual: RGN, INP

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Brand Directory Your guide to the unmissable companies at the Aesthetics Conference & Exhibition (ACE)

Explore the products at ACE 2026:

Key Key Sponsors Platinum Brands

Headline Sponsor

*AbbVie has part sponsored this event, this includes provision of a stand and a speaker program. AbbVie has had no influence over the content/topics covered in other parts of the agenda.

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3D Aesthetics 4T Medical Acclaro Corporation Ace Medicine Ltd Acre Pharmacy Aesthetic Medical Partnership Ltd Aesthetic Web AestheticSource Allergan Aesthetics ALLSKIN | MED Alma Lasers UK Ltd. Amory London Ltd Arthrex Ltd Beautology Laser & IPL Services Ltd Beauty Expert Korea BEAUTYEUROPE.EU CO UK Ltd BTL Aesthetics CACI International Candela (U.K.) Ltd Cellap Laboratory UK CellPRP Church Pharmacy Cosmeditech Limited Cosmetic Courses Croma Pharma UK Crown Aesthetics Cure Medical Limited Cutera Dermafocus Ltd Dermapenworld Elenzia Limited

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F

G H

I

J K

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EMA Aesthetics Ltd Energist Ltd Evolus Fotona UK Galderma (UK) Ltd Genefill UK Halo Health Technologies Ltd - T/A Halo IV Harley Academy Harpar Grace International Ltd Hawksley & Sons Healthxchange Hydrafacial HYPO21 IBSA Derma UK & Ireland IDENEL Professional iiaa InMode Inspire to Outstand Interface Aesthetics IVANMED John Bannon Pharmacy K-Laser UK Klira Laboratories FILLMED LPG Systems UK Lutronic Lynton Lasers Ltd Med-Fx UK Merz Aesthetics Neauvia Novus Medical UK

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Opatra

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Pabau Phorest PURE LTD PT DERMIS LABS SOFTWARE Pure Tone Aesthetics

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Quad Aesthetics

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REGEN LAB SA Revolve Medicare Pharmacy RS Risk Solutions Ltd

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S.THEPHARM CO.,LTD. Sata Training Academy Sciton UK Sculpt Pro Aesthetics Shire Leasing PLC Silhouette Dermalift skinade SkinCeuticals Smart Group SOFWAVE Spring Thread UK

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Teleta The Glow Group Totally Derma TSK Laboratory UK

V

Vivacy Laboratories UK

W

WIGMORE MEDICAL LIMITED

Y

You Can Clinic

Z

Zenoti Zero Gravity Skin ZO Skin Health

Meet the Brands

Directory is correct as of time of print. Updates may be made before the event.

REASONS TO CHOOSE BOCOUTURE • Results seen as early as 7 days, lasting up to 4 months in upper facial lines1 • A well characterised safety profile1 • Convenient – no refrigeration needed prior to reconstitution1

Access injection technique videos now Merz Aesthetics Exchange (MAX) is a promotional website developed and funded by Merz Aesthetics UK & Ireland.

Scan the QR code to access BOCOUTURE UK and Ireland Prescribing Information

Adverse events should be reported. Reporting forms and information for United Kingdom can be found at https://yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk/.

Reporting forms and information for Republic of Ireland can be found at https://www.hpra.ie/homepage/about-us/report-an-issue. Adverse events should also be reported to Merz Aesthetics UK Ltd by emailing UKdrugsafety@merz.com or calling +44 (0) 333 200 4143.

1.BOCOUTURE Summary of Product Characteristics. Merz Pharmaceuticals GmbH: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/600/smpc.

M-BOC-UKI-0739

Date of Preparation: November 2025