14 Skincare Trends Set To Take Over 2024

If your skin is a top priority for you next year, then look no further. We’ve enlisted the help of some of the industry’s leading skincare professionals, facialists and beauty brands to find out which skincare trends will come out on top in 2024.

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The Biggest Skincare Trends Of 2024

As it stands, next year is shaping up to be a rather holistic year, as skincare approaches crack down on small issue via big, all-over changes. Sound interesting? Here are the skincare trends to look out for in 2024:

Top Trends At A Glance

1. Edible Skincare
2. Filter-Free Skin
3. Skinminimalism
4. NAD+ Boosters
5. Growth Factor Technology
6. Skin Barrier
7. Epigenetic Skincare
8. Lymphatic Drainage
9. Holistic Facials
10. Year-Round Sun Protection
11. Exosomes
12. AI Skincare
13. Peel Yourself Pretty
14. Inside-Outside Skincare

1. Edible Skincare

While products for the surface of our skin will remain popular next year, it’s also predicted that skincare will take a bigger inside-out approach. ‘Retinol and collagen soared in popularity in 2023, but 2024 will see edible skincare go mainstream as new developments that support the evolving trend for ‘beauty from within’ reach the market,’ says health and wellness retailer Holland & Barrett. ‘Protein and collagen infused beauty bars, microbiome balancing skincare and readily available bone broths, rich in calcium, will be added to beauty regimes as skincare solutions continue to move beyond the surface.’

(c) Maria Orlova, Pexels

2. Filter-Free Skin

Our awareness of skin health is only getting better, with many of us taking the time to really understand what makes our skin tick and how to give it the best conditions to thrive. It’s thought that this could lead to ‘filter-free skin’ – or bare-faced confidence in our skin. Dr Sach Mohan, skincare expert and founder of Harley Street-based Revere Clinics, says how: ‘I’m noticing a growing trend of patients stripping back their makeup application and instead focusing on nurturing the health of their skin beneath. Looking ahead to 2024, I predict this will continue with the goal for many being skin so naturally healthy and radiant that makeup and filters become redundant.’

3. Skinminimalism

Less is more, as they say. We clocked that skinminimalism would be a hit in 2023, and it seems the trend is going nowhere come 2024. ‘We’re still after more minimalistic skincare routines,’ confirms Dr Sonia Khorana, GP and dermatology expert for Hero. ‘Consumers will seek out formulas that incorporate synergistic [powerful when combined] ingredients in one product. It will cost less (when compared to buying several one-ingredient products), and will reduce the number of people negatively impacting their skin barriers as they move away from heavy layering.’

‘People are performance-driven and streamlined solutions that deliver radiant and rejuvenated skin,’ adds Izabela Pawlitka, an aesthetic therapist and skincare specialist from Dr David Jack. ‘All without the complication of a multi-layering, which offers limited absorption and penetration of actives. Skincare brands need to offer more than a wide range of single active ingredient products, especially with more people taking a skincare-first approach to their daily routine. They want to wear very little makeup and enhance the look of healthy, glowing skin.’

(c) Andrea Piacquadio, Pexels

4. NAD+ Boosters

The next buzzword in skincare, however, is NAD+ (otherwise known as nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, which is quite the mouthful). A vitamin B derivative, NAD+ is a co-enzyme present in every cell of the body and, like collagen, its levels decline as we get older. ‘Brands will look to offer a comprehensive approach to beauty next year,’ says Dr Khorana. ‘We will see more skincare focussing on boosting NAD+ levels, as it shifts to the forefront of the wellness revolution.’

5. Growth Factor Technology

Speaking of cellular skincare, we can expect to see a rise in growth factor technology from 2024. ‘Growth factors are natural substances such as proteins made by the skin cells that regulate cell growth to help repair damaged skin as a result of ageing, sun damage or other environmental factors,’ explains Dr Paris Acharya, leading aesthetic doctor and face surgeon. ‘They play a vital role in maintaining healthy skin structure and function and promote the formation of collagen to provide firmness and elasticity. When it comes to growth factors in cosmetics and skincare, the idea is that you’re taking these growth factors that are naturally produced by the body and applying them to your skin which will trick your skin into thinking that it is young and healthy and it will therefore regenerate and repair itself.’ So expect products that target growth factors in the near future…

(c) Getty Images

6. Skin Barrier

Another big skincare trend for both 2023 and 2024 is, of course, the skin barrier. ‘While many people now take huge pride in their skincare routine, the majority often forget that caring for their skin barrier is one of the most important steps. As we move into 2024 I definitely think that the importance of a healthy skin barrier will become a key skincare focus for many,’ highlights Dr Acharya. ‘Our skin is made up of various different layers, each of which is designed for a specific important function to protect the body. The very top, outermost layer, the stratum corneum, acts like a protective wall. This layer consists of tough skin cells that are bound together to create a barrier between the deeper layers of skin and the outside environment, preventing toxins and bacteria from entering the body. Without your skin barrier, the water and moisture inside your body would escape, leaving you completely dehydrated.’

Dr Acharya tells us that the skin barrier is at risk of many external factors, from weather and sun exposure to pollutants and harsh chemicals, as well as internal factors like steroids and medicines. Other factors like over-exfoliation, psychological distress and genetic factors can also weaken yous skin barrier over time. ‘To keep your skin barrier healthy, there are many things you can do – including drinking two litres of water a day, having a balanced diet rich in beneficial ingredients including omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants and vitamins, and wearing a broad spectrum SPF of 30 or above,’ she highlights. Find out more with our guide to the skin barrier here.

7. Epigenetic Skincare

Could DNA be the solution to common skincare issues? This upcoming beauty movement seems to think so. In the case of British skincare brand LYMA, epigenetic skincare uses a formula that is made up of active ingredients that can help correct gene expression (the orders given by DNA) that causes skin ageing processes like chronic inflammation and the breakdown of collagen. ‘By “cleaning up” these errors, we can make our genes function as they did when we were younger,’ says Dr Graeme Glass MD, PhD, the Director of Aesthetics at LYMA. ‘Perhaps we are increasing the instruction to make more collagen, to repair the skin barrier, to increase cellular energy, to clear away senescent cells, for example. With these skincare actives we are cheating the system, manipulating the instructions to get us a desired result.’ Read more about the movement here.

(c) Elina Fairytale, Pexels

8. Lymphatic Drainage

Those who own a gua sha will be familiar with the term ‘lymphatic drainage’, a type of massage that promises to sculpt skin through natural drainage of lymph (a body fluid carrying waste products away from the tissues back toward the heart). ‘Lymphatic drainage can be beneficial for individuals with acne, rosacea, puffy eyes and faces,’ says Donna Ryan, a London-based celebrity facialist and skincare expert. ‘When we drain the excess fluid, we can reveal a more contoured and snatched face. Lymphatic drainage helps remove toxins and waste products from the body. By facilitating the movement of lymphatic fluid and excess waste, it supports the elimination of impurities that can contribute to inflammation and acne.

‘Lymphatic drainage is popular for good skin health because it addresses multiple aspects of well-being, continues Donna. ‘By supporting detoxification, reducing fluid retention and enhancing overall circulation, lymphatic drainage can contribute to a clearer, more radiant complexion. The extensive network of lymph nodes and the vital role of the lymphatic system in the body emphasize its importance in maintaining optimal skin health.’

9. Holistic Facials

The fast-growing movement of holistic beauty will also reach a new high in 2024, according to Donna. This, in turn, will give rise to the holistic facial, as the experience and atmosphere intertwine with the potency of skincare products. ‘The emphasis on self-care and holistic wellness has led people to seek skincare practices that go beyond surface-level treatments,’ says Donna. ‘Holistic facials align with the broader trend of prioritising self-care as an essential aspect of overall health. They are gaining popularity for several reasons, and the connection between the facial experience and overall wellbeing plays a significant role. A holistic facial addresses both the physical and mental aspects of well-being, with the integration of relaxation techniques and the promotion of overall health contributing to a rejuvenating experience that extends beyond the immediate benefits to the skin.’

10. Year-Round Sun Protection

Think SPF is just for summer? Think again. ‘We have definitely become more conscious of the harmful effects of UV radiation in recent years,’ says Dr Raffaella Gabassi, facial aesthetics clinician. ‘We know we need to protect our skin from sun damage all year round, and in doing so, we will reduce the risk of skin cancer, sunspots, wrinkles, and sagging caused by prolonged sun exposure. The growing availability of advanced sunscreen and fake tan products are making it easier than ever to maintain the skin’s integrity whilst enjoying a realistic, sun-kissed glow.’

‘The evolution of sun-care will be a huge trend for next few years as industry continued its advances in sun protection formulas,’ adds Izabela Pawlitka. ‘Around 50 percent of patients that visit our clinic still believe that SPF50 is an optional layer and needs to be use in the summer. Sunscreens is essential for various purposes including anti-aging, anti-melanogenic and skin cancer prevention. Many people only have their sunscreen handy during the summer months, but you need to wear sunscreen everyday whether it’s sunny or cloudy. It is really important to remember to wear your sunscreen every day or you may be putting your skin at risk. Protecting yourself from harmful UVA & UVB rays should always be your priority. In addition, blue light protection should be part of your SPF as a digital shield.’ See our roundup of the best SPF creams here.

(c) Maciej Serafinowicz, Unsplash

11. Exosomes

A new beauty buzzword set to rule 2024 is ‘exosomes’, the term used to describe nanoparticles that carry messages from one cell to another. It’s predicted that treatments and technologies that stimulate exosomes will become popular in the realm of skincare, as a means of improving firmness and skin texture. ‘Exosomes ASCEplus SRLV is a new, innovative technology that uses the powerful messengers of the cells, called exosomes, to activate cells in our skin to make them work more effectively,’ explains Dr Yannis Alexandrides, plastic surgeon MD FACS, founder and medical director of 111 Harley St. and founder of 111SKIN. ‘They help increase the production of collagen and elastin. This is an effective and safe treatment for loss of elasticity, luminosity, improving firmness, brightening the skin, reducing pore size and improving skin texture. In my clinic we provide exosomes in combination with various treatments, including microneedling, to enhance penetration of the exosomes into the skin for optimum results.’

12. AI Skincare

AI had to get in here somewhere, right? ‘It’s time to fasten our seatbelts, 2024 is the year AI becomes our skin’s new best friend,’ says Roxanne Lanthier, Senior Aesthetician & Head of Training at Young LDN. ‘Picture this: smart devices, more intuitive than ever, offering a skincare analysis as unique as our fingerprint. These tech wizards provide fast, efficient and spot-on consultations, crafting skincare plans bespoke just for you. Gone are the days of one-size-fits-all skincare routines. Now, you’re the VIP in a world of ultra-personalised, advanced skincare.

‘At Young LDN, the future is now with its Observ520 treatment,’ she continues. ‘It’s like having a crystal ball for your skin, revealing your path to a bespoke, glowing future. Welcome to the new age of skincare, where technology meets personal touch, and our skin’s dreams come true.’

13. Peel Yourself Pretty

Roxanne also tells us that facial peels are set to be a big skincare trend for 2024. ‘Healthy-looking skin never goes out of fashion, so it’s no surprise that the pioneering facial peel is predicted to be one of the biggest skincare trends,’ she says. ‘Requiring no pre-peel skin preparation and sometimes with a treatment time of just 15 minutes, peel facials lead to revitalised skin in just one week. Some skin shedding can be expected with certain treatments, but it’s totally worth it for results that include smoother skin, a clearer complexion, reduced fine lines and wrinkles, improved hyperpigmentation, reduced pore size and increased luminosity.

‘Each peel has a uniquely blended formula which deeply exfoliates the surface layers of the skin, not only reaching layers of the skin that most facials can’t, but also nourishing the dermis with the ultimate combination of skin-enhancing ingredients,’ she adds. Learn more with our guide to facial peels here.

(c) Cottonbro, Pexels

14. Inside-Out Skincare

And finally, you can expect many of us too look inwards (literally) when it comes to our skin. Coming from a more holistic approach, this is all about how the things going on within our body (and what we put in it) can impact our skin. ‘Imagine a world where your morning smoothie does more than just kickstart your day. It’s 2024, and the buzz is all about skincare from within,’ emphasises Roxanne. ‘We’ve unlocked the secret: our diet, environment, hormones and even our mental health are skincare superheroes. Enter the era of ingestible wonders – think collagen cocktails and vitamin-rich concoctions, all joining forces to pamper not just your face but your whole body. It’s a holistic beauty bash!

‘But wait, there’s a twist,’ she continues. ‘Our hectic lives often lead us down the fast-food lane, away from the nourishing choices our skin craves. The goal? To slow down the ticking ageing clock. The solution? A seamless blend of inner health and outer glow, embracing everything from regenerative therapies to non-invasive treatments.’

Featured image: Pavel Danilyuk, Pexels