There have been numerous changes in the skincare industry, both locally and globally.

The year 2025 has taught us a lot when it comes to beauty. We’ve toned down on excessive filler and have embraced Botox. Our aesthetics procedures have become less invasive and we continue to seek minimal downtime and unnessesary discomfort.

Now, as the skincare shifts toward science-led personalisation, Dr Danielle Gounder, co-founder of Skin-Recode in Cape Town, shares her expert insights on what’s ahead for 2026.

A year for deeper, smarter and more connected

“[The year] 2026 builds firmly on these foundations – where skincare intersects with metabolic health, neurocosmetics and zero-waste ethics,” Dr Danielle predicts. “Intelligent simplicity and emotional wellbeing will anchor innovation.”

READ MORE | AI skincare and more – 6 beauty trends that dominated 2025

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and neurocosmetics: where skin meets mind

The doctor says, “AI evolves into holistic advisory – analysing stress, sleep and gut health to curate complete wellbeing solutions. Multi-sensory mists and neuro-responsive formulas transform routines into micro-moments of calm, while actively reducing inflammation and breakouts.”

Pre-ageing and longevity: prevention elevated

She says, “‘Prejuvenation’ becomes universal as biotech-derived skincare – including upcycled peptides – strengthens collagen earlier to delay signs of ageing,” she says.

“Sustainability gains via lab-grown over farm-harvested actives, cutting waste without compromising efficacy. Acne care shifts from stripping to preserving the microbiome.”

The rise of full-body rituals

Skincare and wellness will be about a holistic approach.

Dr Danielle says, “Body care ‘faceifies’ even further with ingestibles, advanced actives and smart tools. Hair removal gains in precision and inclusivity. Men’s grooming evolves into full, normalised routines.”

Non-surgical body contouring soar

Skincare and wellness clients are increasingly ditching invasive aesthetic procedures where possible.

As lymphatic therapist trainer Micaela Rios-O’Leary says about people trying the praised T-Shape contouring procedure, it’s for “healthy individuals seeking non-invasive solutions for body contouring and skin tightening, particularly those dealing with cellulite or stubborn fat”.

When it comes to non-surgical body contouring procedures, in 2026, Dr Danielle says, “Hybrid devices will merge fat-melting and skin-tightening for even quicker, more seamless results – perfect for a post-surgery-averse generation seeking refined silhouettes on their lunch breaks.”

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