We recently attended the New York Society of Cosmetic Chemists meeting in New York City, which is one of the most important events on every skin care industry professional’s calendars. It attracts thousands of the leading players in the market and has become the showcase for the latest innovations, revelations and trends. Here are some of the trends we picked up on during our visit:
Blue light protection – Protection against blue light is becoming increasingly popular, especially amongst Millennials who are looking for ways to protect their skin. Blue light, sometimes called high energy visible (HEV) light, is most commonly emitted through screens. It is the light from smartphones, tablets and computer screens that we are chronically exposed to on a daily basis. Excessive blue light exposure accelerates the oxidation process which elicits inflammation and damages the skin barrier making it more prone to signs of aging, uneven skin tone, dullness, pigmentation, and fine lines and wrinkles. Fortunately, with this skin care problem, there’s a skin care solution. Companies are quickly catching on to the need for formulas that combat the effects of blue light. Expect to see a crop of new products that can help minimize HEV damage and, in some cases, even prevent it before it happens.
Pollution protection – When it comes to how many fine lines and wrinkles you’ll get, genetics are skin’s public enemy number one. But, number two? The environment. Everyone is aware of the damaging effects the sun can have on your complexion, but urban dust, smog, smoke and exhaust fumes can wreak havoc on your skin by causing irritation and inflammation, clogged pores and accelerating signs of aging. Urban growth is increasing so fast that by 2050 approximately 50% of the world’s population is projected to live in cities. Based on that fact and the effects urban-dwellers have seen on their skin, the desire for skin care products that protect you from pollution are on the rise.
Anti-aging in sensitive skin – Another trend on the horizon is the push for anti-aging products for sensitive skin. It’s hard enough to find effective anti-aging products. If you have sensitive skin, good luck finding something that is both gentle and effective. Since most anti-aging ingredients (think retinol, AHAs) work by speeding up cell turnover – which can make skin dry and flaky – they can wreak havoc on easily-irritated skin. But not all anti-aging ingredients are harsh, and even retinols and AHAs can work if used in a balanced formula. We’ve got great news for those with sensitive skin who want to reap the benefits of anti-aging products! Trilogy Laboratories is currently working on formulas with a balanced approach to fighting signs of aging while soothing sensitive skin. Keep an eye out for new Trilogy formulas within the next year!
Customized skin-care products based on genetics – Whether you realize it or not, your DNA play’s a big role in the health and appearance of your skin. With the advent of tests like 23 and Me, we are getting closer to being able to evaluate genetics and create custom, individualized products for people based on their predisposed skin conditions. Who doesn’t want that? By understanding your genetic predisposition to wrinkles, cellulite, inflammation, and other skin conditions, you can make positive changes to eliminate, reduce, or delay symptoms with personalized skin care products that are unique to you.
Getting doctor-like results at home – Another trend that is booming in the market is the desire to get “doctor-like” results from the comfort of your own home. Our busy lives allow for fewer trips to the doctor’s office, salon or spa, but our skin still craves those same in-office visit results. This presents a challenge to effectively balance strength and safety of a product that can be used without the supervision of a licensed physician or aesthetician. Luckily, Trilogy is developing some home treatments and peel products that are safe, reliable and provide visible results that can help between office visits. Check out our Revive Mask which is one of those products!
Now that you know what’s trending in skin care, stay tuned for the second blog in our two-part series to learn about trends in skin care ingredients!
Posted in Professional Skin Care
