Every year, more than 20,000 dermatologists and beauty industry professionals gather at the American Academy of Dermatology Annual Meeting, and the conference floor quickly becomes one of the most telling trend reports in the industry. This year, established names like Clinique and Lancôme shared exhibit space with newer brands like Topicals and Glow Recipe, creating a fascinating snapshot of where skincare is headed.
To cut through the noise, five board-certified dermatologists who attended the conference shared what stood out to them most.
Scalp care is getting a serious upgrade
The idea of treating the scalp the same way we treat our skin is not new, but this year’s AAD made clear that the category has matured considerably. Brands are moving past basic cleansing and into barrier support, microbiome balance, and formulas designed to reduce shedding and promote fuller-looking hair. Drugstore options are leading some of the more notable advancements, with products like the Dove Dermacare Scalp Dandruff Relief Line and Neutrogena Hair Restore Advanced Serum drawing particular attention from attendees.
Longevity is the new anti aging
A clear philosophical shift is underway in the industry. Rather than simply addressing visible signs of aging as they appear, brands are now leaning into cellular-level health and long-term skin vitality. Lancôme’s Absolue Longevity MD was among the most talked about launches at the conference, with its use of Mitopure a licensed ingredient from Timeline highlighting the growing connection between biotechnology and beauty.
Sunscreens people actually want to wear
The era of thick, white cast leaving sunscreen is giving way to formulas that feel luxurious and work for a wider range of skin tones. Products like No7 Future Renew Damage Protection Defense Shield and EltaMD UV Clear Blemish Prone Oil-Balancing Sunscreen are designed to feel weightless on the skin, while mineral options like CeraVe Invisible Mineral Sunscreen and Bubble Sunrise Mineral Sunscreen Stick are making daily reapplication far more appealing.
Dermatologist founded brands are filling a real gap
As consumers grow increasingly skeptical of celebrity backed launches, there is a rising appetite for brands built on genuine clinical expertise. Lines like Prequel and Remedy, both dermatologist-founded, were highlighted at the conference for their emphasis on efficacy, safety, and streamlined routines that deliver results without unnecessary irritation.
Acne treatments are smarter than ever
Today’s breakout solutions are not simply about drying out blemishes. They target acne at multiple levels while also addressing post-acne discoloration and protecting the skin barrier. The Neutrogena Evenly Clear Collection, co-designed with dermatologists, was praised for tackling breakouts and dark marks within a single routine. La Roche Posay’s Effaclar BPO Multi Target Acne Treatment also drew attention for its use of micronized benzoyl peroxide, which improves tolerability while enhancing efficacy a sign that meaningful innovation can come from refining existing ingredients, not just introducing new ones.
K-beauty keeps growing in clinical spaces
Korean beauty brands have long influenced the wider industry, but their presence at a clinical conference like AAD signals just how seriously dermatologists are taking them. Brands including Glow Recipe, Peach Slices, and Anua drew large crowds, celebrated for their ability to incorporate trending ingredients into elegant, practical formulations. Their growing visibility also reflects a broader globalization of skincare innovation.
Tween skincare is a real conversation now
Gen Alpha those born between 2010 and 2024 is already a notable presence in the beauty space, and brands are responding. Byoma and Bubble showcased their offerings at this year’s conference, with a focus on accessible, barrier supportive products appropriate for younger skin. Dermatologists at the event emphasized the importance of clinical guidance as this demographic continues to engage with beauty routines at earlier ages.
Three ingredients dermatologists are watching closely
Several ingredients emerged as major talking points on the conference floor. PDRN (Polydeoxyribonucleotide) is gaining recognition for its ability to support skin repair and elasticity by promoting cellular regeneration. Exosomes are quickly becoming one of the most sought-after additions to both topical products and in-office treatments, with particular promise in post-procedure recovery and hair restoration. And peptides are having a significant moment, with advances in how they are formulated and delivered making them increasingly relevant in longevity-focused skincare.
Noninvasive tightening treatments lead the way in-office
When it comes to aesthetic procedures, patients are prioritizing results with as little recovery time as possible. Radiofrequency devices like Everesse and Density by Jeisys are at the forefront of this shift, using controlled heat to stimulate collagen production and improve skin laxity over time without requiring downtime that disrupts daily life.
