Top dermatology trends to watch in 2025
The field of dermatology is constantly evolving, with new innovations and trends emerging every year. As we head into the start of 2025, there are several exciting developments that are shaping the future of skin care, treatment modalities, and dermatological research. Here’s a look at the top dermatology trends to watch in the coming year.
1. Protecting the Skin Barrier
In 2025, there’s a growing emphasis on protecting and strengthening the skin barrier. The skin barrier plays a crucial role in maintaining hydration and defending against irritants, allergens, and environmental damage. Dermatologists are increasingly recommending products continuing key ingredients like beta glucan, which soothes and repairs skin, and hyaluronic acid, a powerful humectant that retains moisture and supports barrier function. These ingredients are becoming staples in formulations designed to enhance skin health, particularly for individuals with sensitive or compromised skin. Protecting the skin barrier isn’t just a trend—it’s a fundamental approach to achieving healthier, more resilient skin.
2. At-Home Dermatology Devices
At-home skincare devices are becoming increasingly popular, allowing patients to manage skin conditions from the comfort of their homes. Devices that were once only available in dermatology offices—like LED light therapy masks, microcurrent devices, and home-use lasers—are now available for at-home use. These tools provide convenience and long-term cost savings while delivering professional-grade results. In 2025, expect more innovations in this space, especially in devices targeting anti-aging, acne treatment, and skin rejuvenation. Some of my continued favorites: dry brushes, ice rollers, and fascia manipulation tools.
3. Advances in Laser and Energy-Based Therapies
Laser and energy-based therapies continue to evolve, offering more precise and less invasive options for treating various skin conditions. One of the notable trends for 2024 was the development of hybrid lasers that combine different wavelengths to treat multiple skin concerns simultaneously. This can enhance results for conditions like wrinkles, sun damage, and scars while minimizing downtime. Radiofrequency microneedling and ultrasound-based skin tightening treatments are also gaining popularity as they provide non-invasive options for skin rejuvenation with fewer side effects.
4. Biologic Therapies for Skin Conditions
Biologics have revolutionized the treatment of chronic inflammatory skin diseases like psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and hidradenitis suppurativa. These medications, derived from living organisms, target specific components of the immune system to reduce inflammation and improve symptoms. With ongoing research, new biologic therapies are expected to hit the market in 2025, offering more options for patients with treatment-resistant conditions. These advancements are not only improving patient outcomes but also shifting the way dermatologists manage chronic skin diseases. Two highly anticipated FDA drug approvals in 2025: dupilumab (Dupixent; Sanofi Regeneron) for chronic spontaneous urticaria and and Pz-cel (prademagenezamikeracel, Abeona therapeutics) for recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa.
5. Sustainability in Skincare
Sustainability is becoming a priority across all industries, and dermatology is no exception. In 2025, consumers are continuing to look for skincare products that are not only effective but also environmentally friendly. Brands are responding by creating formulations with sustainable ingredients, eco-friendly packaging, and ethical sourcing practices. Dermatologists are increasingly recommending these products to patients who want to prioritize sustainability without compromising on skin health.
6. Emerging Research on Skin Microbiome
Research on the skin microbiome—the community of microorganisms living on our skin—is one of the most exciting areas in dermatological science. In 2025, expect new findings on how the microbiome impacts skin conditions like eczema, acne, and rosacea. Probiotic and prebiotic skincare products, designed to balance the skin's natural microbiome, are also on the rise. This research has the potential to transform how dermatologists approach treatment, with a focus on restoring microbiome balance rather than simply addressing symptoms.
