7 of the Newest Facial Treatments You Should Know

By Dr. Stephen Cosentino

PRESIDENT OF EMPIRE MEDICAL TRAINING

The cosmetic medicine industry is changing so quickly even seasoned providers have trouble keeping up, let alone new patients. 

But it’s worth keeping tabs on the space because many developments are downright exciting. And some of the most interesting also treat the most visible area of the body: the face. 

From platelet rich plasma facials that stimulate cell regeneration to noninvasive resurfacing treatments that improve skin texture and leave us looking and feeling years younger, the newest facial treatments are game-changers.

New Facial Treatments: What to Know & Expect

Let’s take a look at some of the most exciting facial treatments to hit the market recently. 

Before we dive in, a word of caution: Always work with a licensed, trained practitioner. They don’t need to be a plastic surgeon or board-certified dermatologist — though many American Academy of Dermatology members perform or supervise minimally invasive treatments — but you should confirm that they’re certified and legally permitted to perform the services they advertise in your area.

Intense Pulsed Light Therapy (IPL)

IPL is a skin tightening treatment that can address loose skin across a variety of skin types. It’s noninvasive and painless, and while the results aren’t dramatic, it leaves a noticeable afterglow that’s sure to get your friends talking.

Platelet Rich Plasma Facials

PRP facials use your own plasma (the clear part of your blood), which is rich in stem cells, in a painless microneedling process. They harness the body’s natural healing response to improve skin tone, temporarily reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and leave the face looking (and feeling) rejuvenated. PRP facials may stimulate collagen production beneath the skin as well, adding volume.

Dermaplaning

Dermaplaning is another noninvasive resurfacing treatment that can even out the skin tone, soften lines and wrinkles, and temporarily obscure acne scars. Your provider may combine it with topical hyaluronic acid or hyaluronic acid fillers to subtly add volume and restore a full, youthful appearance. 

Noninvasive Chemical Peels

Chemical peels use salicylic or glycolic acid (along with other ingredients) to gently (but firmly) remove the top layer of skin — which is mostly dead skin cells, dirt, and oil anyway — to reveal healthier cells underneath. They help restore balance to oily skin and lessen the side effects of clogged pores, including acne outbreaks. Just remember to apply SPF moisturizer after the procedure, as sun sensitivity temporarily increases.

Laser Treatment for Acne

Next-generation laser therapy is emerging as a superior treatment for in-progress acne outbreaks. It’s a targeted treatment that doesn’t require any messy topical applications or painful incisions. Do be sure to work with a provider who has appropriate laser therapy certification.

EM/RF Sculpting Therapy

This noninvasive fat removal and muscle stimulation treatment harnesses the power of (safe) electromagnetic (EM) radiation and radiofrequency (RF) waves. The waves penetrate the skin, hitting the fat and muscle underneath, but don’t harm any deeper tissues. There’s no pain or lengthy recovery period, and results begin to appear within days.

RF Microneedling

Radiofrequency microneedling has similar benefits to PRP without the plasma. It stimulates the skin’s natural healing process and may boost collagen production, subtly increasing volume over time.