The dynamic world of aesthetics is ever-evolving. 2023 will be known as the year of a host of new tweakments entering the scene–from muscle stimulation devices like EmFace to skin-rejuvenating and regenerating injectables like exosomes and polynucleotides.

As we approach 2024, the aesthetics sector is set for even more innovation. We spoke to leading practitioners and asked them to share the treatments and trends that they are most excited about.
 

The injectable lip balm 

If you find yourself constantly slathering on lip balm or suffer from chronically dry lips, a new treatment offering long-lasting hydration may be for you.

“We’ve been injecting the lips with micro-doses of skin-booster Teoxane Redensity 1, which contains hydrating hyaluronic acid, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants,” says Dr Christine Hall of the Taktouk Clinic. “It works wonderfully to treat dryness and dehydration because it moisturises the lips from within. You’ll notice that chapping is reduced and it also smooths out those vertical lip lines that are more prominent on dry lips,” she adds.

As well as smoother lips for up to a month, this is a great entry point for those considering dermal fillers or moving away from overinflated lips, as it plumps the pout ever so subtly.
 

A breakthrough solution for cellulite

While there are several cellulite-busting treatment options out there, the results are often disappointing or short lived. Alidya, which arrives on our shores in January, claims to be the first ever injectable that can treat and prevent cellulite. “This is the first time we can target the root cause of cellulite in the dermis, treating the skin from the inside out,” says EV Expert Dr Bhavjit Kaur.

Toxins under the skin are one of the key contributors of cellulite: CE-marked Alidya, works by breaking down these substances while improving lymphatic drainage with a solution of collagen peptides and eight amino acids, that can be injected into the buttocks, thighs and legs via mesotherapy. “Results are visible after around two sessions and the treatment is relatively pain free,” adds Dr Kaur.
 

A rise in aesthetics fused with wellness

The next chapter of wellness will be focused on the nexus of mind, body and beauty, where mental wellbeing and physical appearance are interconnected, according to market analyst Mintel’s 2024 Global Beauty and Personal Care trends report.

There’s a growing understanding that relying on skincare, injectables and lasers is not enough, hence why a host of doctors are starting to address the outward signs of ageing from the inside.

“The synergy between aesthetics and wellness will definitely become more apparent over the coming months,” predicts EV Expert Dr Emmaline Ashley. “There has been a long push in the traditional medical curriculum to incorporate lifestyle aspects into diagnoses and treatments. Many clinicians are integrating a more holistic approach, focusing on skin health and facial harmonisation, while also taking into account the patient’s social and psychological wellbeing,” she adds.

Examples include the recently-opened Remedi London clinic and The HVN in Knightsbridge, who are expanding their offerings to encompass holistic approaches. “People are realising that to operate at our optimum and to look our best, we need to take a multi-faceted approach, hence why we will be seeing more science-backed biohacking options like cryotherapy, cognitive training and IV drips being combined with traditional aesthetic options, to allow patients to nurture not just physical, but emotional and mental aspects too,” says Dr Nima Mahmoodi of Remedi London.
 

The AI device that minimises downtime

“Artificial intelligence is set to be a very useful tool when it comes to safety, accuracy and treatment outcomes–we will be seeing it used a lot more,” shares EV Expert Dr Ahmed El Muntasar.

Enter the Exion device by BTL (rolling into clinics from March), which is as cutting edge as they come. Seven years in the making, this 4-in-1 device features multiple hand pieces that can be used to treat everything from wrinkles, acne scars, stubborn fat and vaginal laxity. Exion is also the first device capable of boosting the bodies’ own production of hyaluronic acid by over 200 per cent.

“I’m very excited about the integration of AI,” says Miss Sherina Balaratnam, Surgeon and Cosmetic Doctor at the S-Thetics Clinic. “I’ve been carrying out radio frequency needling treatments since 2016 and these have always come with a level of discomfort and recovery time. Now we can use AI to read and monitor the skin tissue with the Exion RF needles, to ensure precise delivery. This minimises discomfort, recovery, and treatment time, resulting in an enhanced patient experience. Plus, the fact that Exion can increase our bodies’ own HA production makes it a game-changer,” she adds.
 

The non-invasive facelift

Could 2024 be the year that we fall out of love with toxins and fillers? Dr Galyna Selezneva believes we could be using less of them going forward. Rather than solely addressing surface-level skin issues, new Jovena Facestim also targets the ageing muscles beneath.

The innovative technology simultaneously delivers a combination of radio frequency and diathermal muscle contraction to heat and stimulate the underlying facial muscles, promoting skin tightening and deep dermal remodelling.

“This device is a rising star, because we can target the actual muscle–the scaffolding that holds the face together,” shares Dr Galyna. “We can work on the architecture of the face, strengthening, tightening and toning the muscles to bring back contour and definition. With this combination of technologies, the results are immediate. You get an elevated and rejuvenated look, with reduced tear troughs and nose to mouth lines, defined cheeks plus a reduction in jowls, for up to 12 months, after four to six sessions,” she adds.