The beauty industry has undergone a dramatic transformation, fuelled by rapid technological advancements. To shed light on these changes, we’ve roped in Dr Elizabeth Briden, an internationally renowned dermatologist and key opinion leader in aesthetic dermatology.

Specialising in skin rejuvenation, medical and cosmetic dermatology and dermatologic surgery, Dr Briden offers valuable insights into the evolving skincare landscape

With skincare innovations constantly reshaping our routines, it’s crucial to stay informed about the latest developments. As we navigate the evolving beauty landscape, understanding the interplay between cutting-edge technology and skincare becomes essential. “During Covid, there were not many new cosmetic procedures (i.e. no new lasers, etc.) and few new skincare products being introduced.

Now, I am seeing more innovation for skincare, and younger patients looking to start preventing anti-ageing effects earlier. Social media plays a significant role in anti-ageing and skincare trends,” says Dr Briden, describing the major shifts in skincare and cosmetics over the past decade.

Glamour: What were some of the most significant changes or innovations at the start of the skincare revolution?

Dr Briden: Thanks to Dr Van Scott and Yu, who introduced AHAs [alpha-hydroxy acid] in the late 70s, new skincare options became available to dermatologists and patients. Before these discoveries, we had limited effective and affordable anti-ageing treatments with clinically proven results. Patients would come and ask me how to take care of their skin. Now, we have more effective topical dermocosmetics (AHAs, polyhydroxy acid [PHA], retinoids, antioxidants, peptides, SPF, etc.) and various professional procedures (peels, non-ablative lasers, microneedling, IPL, etc.) that allow for less downtime and minimal irritation than previous treatments. This truly revolutionised skincare through the professional, and was the foundation of skincare products coming directly from professional clinics to the patient.

Glamour: What is the impact of treatments like Botox, fillers and retinol on the industry and how have they influenced patient expectations?

Dr Briden: Patients have higher expectations regarding the results of the procedures. They are asking for less invasive treatments that are showing quick results with less downtime. They also expect that these treatments are more accessible and affordable. A good skincare regimen in combination with these treatments helps improve the overall skin health of my patients.

Glamour: How has the introduction of these advanced treatments altered traditional approaches to skincare and cosmetic procedures?

Dr Briden: Everyone is stared with a good skincare regimen, which helps to enhance the procedure outcomes and minimise the risk of complications. More patients are requesting and receiving anti-ageing treatment and products.

Glamour: In your experience, how have these innovations affected patient attitudes toward skincare and cosmetic procedures?

Dr Briden: Patients are more open to trying new procedures and skincare as they are more aware of ageing effects. Social media also brings more awareness in addition to misinformation regarding skin. Our professional, trained staff educates our patients on what works versus what does not.

Glamour: What are some emerging trends or technologies in dermatology and cosmetics that you find exciting?

Dr Briden: Most recently, I am excited about a new technology — microdipeptides — that has been shown in early studies to provide more sculpted, lifted, taut skin. What makes this peptide exciting is the size of the molecule, which is 2.5 times smaller than other leading topical peptides. The size matters because this will enable better absorption of this new benefit ingredient.

Glamour: How has the Advanced Dermatology and Cosmetic Institute played a role in shaping or responding to changes within the field?

Dr Briden: Our clinic partners with our patients on a comprehensive treatment and skincare regimen that is effective for their specific needs. Our team also helps educate and guide our patients in their skin health journey, ensuring that they get the most out of their skincare investment. We offer a wide range of anti-ageing treatments from minimally invasive to more comprehensive options.We have also dedicated a retail skincare area in our clinic for patients to purchase these therapeutic products.

Glamour: Is there a notable case or example where new advancements have had a particularly profound impact on one of your patients?

Dr Briden: Many of my patients have benefited from the AHA/PHA skincare products and chemical peels over 30+ years. One of my patients who was suffering from severe rosacea and was not responsive to conventional treatments, improved greatly with a series of AHA peels and home care products with PHAs. Patients with sensitive skin can be difficult to treat without causing additional sensitivity, but AHA peels and PHA home care products offered beneficial results. Her condition improved so she was able to discontinue all other drug treatments and she continues to see me once a year for a ‘touch up’ peel. Her skin improvement did impact her everyday life as she became more confident and thankful that she found a solution to her skin problem.

Glamour: How do you foresee the future of cosmetic dermatology evolving over the next five to 10 years?

Dr Briden: I foresee that skincare will be part of all my patients’ everyday skin health and that more-effective products will be introduced as future scientific discoveries should bring exciting new opportunities in skincare products and procedures. I am hoping that there will be fewer cases of skin cancer due to patients using SPF on a daily basis, since patients have started using SPF at an earlier age and more consistently. I also believe that since younger patients are more conscious of skincare this could mean that there will be different skin health needs in the future (a demand for less invasive treatments and more non invasive procedures).

Glamour: What advice would you give to individuals who are considering cosmetic treatments but are unsure about the best options for their needs?

• Do your research thoroughly and ensure that your information is from a credible source.

• Seek clinically proven ingredients

• Start early to prevent damage.

• For the best results, professional treatments should be combined with

a good home care regimen that includes daily SPF products.

• Any professional treatment should be performed by an adequately trained and licensed physician.