Skincare in 2025 saw a dramatic shift from its predecessors. Previous skincare methods, such as ‘slugging’ or skin cocktails, as well as routines with double-digit steps, were toned down, making room for natural skincare. From an abundance of products, we shifted to skincare we can eat, DIY products, and products with no-nonsense formulations. Now, the skincare trends are shifting again as we move on to a middle ground. Ingredient-focused but science-backed.
On the other hand, the rise of wellness and spiritual practices has also bled into skincare treatments. Massages rooted in ancient practices are beginning to gain popularity, and considering Dubai’s fast pace, these are all welcome changes that offer a respite in a hyperactive world.
Here are the other skincare trends set to rule 2026.
Skin Minimalism
When it comes to topical skincare, we’re noticing routines being pared back. Skin minimalism was a niche trend in 2025, but now has slowly entered the mainstream as more and more brands launch hybrids of their products, cancelling out steps in the process.
Natural Skin Longevity
Barrier repair, cell regeneration, and a natural inward glow have all become skincare goals of the year. Previously, hydration used to be the key focus for skincare brands and wearers alike (and it still is!), but beyond hydration, people are beginning to understand that what makes skin look and act healthy is a healthy skin barrier. Hence, the IV treatments and topical skincare focused on ceramides, peptides, and antioxidants that help to give the skin a glowing appearance from the inside out.
Exosome Treatments
Part of achieving the skincare goal of regenerative skin, exosomes are slowly gaining popularity, especially through social media. As an anti-ageing treatment, they work quite powerfully. Exosomes are membrane-bound vesicles that contain proteins and lipids. They help reduce inflammation and promote tissue rejuvenation, hence triggering cell rejuvenation. And while they’re mainly seen and used on skin, clinics offer exosome treatments for hair as well, where the exosomes stimulate hair growth for thicker, fuller hair.
PDRN Products
PDRN treatments were all the rage last year, and we expect their popularity to continue this year. Initially, PDRN was a skin booster that was extremely popular in Korea. From there, its popularity trickled into K-Beauty, which gave it a mainstream appeal. Between serums, ampoules, and creams, PDRN as an ingredient shows no sign of slowing down.
Holistic Treatments
As Dubai shifts from its party nature to prioritising wellness and spirituality, holistic treatments rooted in ancient medicine are gaining traction as well. Singing Bowl Massages is one such treatment where the benefits of sound healing are combined with a massage. Whereas the popularity of Sohum Wellness Sanctuary is also another factor. With treatments that combine Ayurvedic practices with the luxurious spa experience, it perfectly taps into the city’s desire for wellness. And when looking at the broader picture, these treatments not only heal our bodies but also reduce stress and give us mental relief, all of which reflects on our skin.
LED Face Masks
While not new in the skincare world, LED face masks will continue to remain popular because of their multitasking nature. Living in a fast-paced city will do that to you, so if a skincare tool can work with minimum intervention, then it definitely has a spot in the 2026 vanity.
The Face Massage Brush
Not to be confused with a gua sha or an ice roller, although the benefits are the same, the face massage brush is a wooden brush that helps with lymphatic drainage, slimming the face down and toning it. Currently, the brush is being carried with internet hype as videos show the dramatic differences before and after, so time will tell if this tool will define 2026 skincare trends.
