Title: Novel Treatments and Clinical Insights Shaping Dermatology
As we head into the new year, it’s important to highlight some of the pieces that helped clarify the role of novel treatments and the underlying pathophysiology of common conditions. With the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) models, our patients are coming to the clinic with more sophisticated questions ranging from the role of exosomes in their skin care to the type of moisturizer patients with eczema should use. These intricate questions should push us to remain involved in the primary literature to be able to engage with them in a helpful manner.
One of the most frequently asked questions in the aesthetics world regards exosomes. Many aesthetic providers can often be overly weary or overly trusting of this novel treatment. Haykal et al detail the various types of exosome sources. They note that no exosome preparations are FDA-approved and that caution is used for human-derived exosomes in Europe. While caution is generally advised, the research points to potential benefits, including promoting collagen and elastin to firm skin. It should also be noted that the long-term safety of exosome treatments has not been delineated and the variability in the sources was highlighted. Adding to this, Dr. Ablon conducted a preliminary study of radiofrequency microneedling with an Exosome Regenerative Complex with promising results for androgenic alopecia in men and women.
The world of supplements and peptides also took off in 2025. Okoye et al describe the uses of berberine in dermatology. They detail the many antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects in a manner for how it could be effective for diseases ranging from hidradenitis suppurativa to psoriasis to pigmentary disorders. Edison et al assessed the potential impact of acetyl dipeptide-31 amide. They evaluated its effect on anti-inflammatory mechanisms as well as improvements in clinical signs of aging. With the increase in peptide use among our patients, it’s beneficial to look at products that have clinical data.
Finally, this year also augmented our understanding of well-known conditions. In the world of atopic dermatitis, Schachner et al articulated in a panel consensus the mitigating environmental factors for patients with atopic dermatitis. They also note the need for starting ceramide-containing skin care products as early as possible. Symons et al analyzed the durability of dupilumab across a 2-year period for children, adolescents, and adults with atopic dermatitis. Many patients are also inquiring about the role of the microbiome and diet in their dermatologic conditions. While this field is still preliminary, Beam et al describe the role of diet in hidradenitis suppurativa. This analysis gives patients more agency in their care and will help clinicians answer their questions in a more detailed manner.
It will be exciting to see what advances across cosmetic, general, and medical dermatology we will see in 2026!
REFERENCES
Exosomes in Cosmetic Dermatology: A Review of Benefits and Challenges
The Multifaceted Effects of Berberine: Potential Uses in Dermatology
Nourishing the Skin: A Review of Diet’s Role in Hidradenitis Suppurativa
