The skincare and aesthetics industry is poised for significant changes in 2025. As preferences shift and new approaches take centre stage, certain practices are falling out of favour, making way for more thoughtful and effective treatments, and yes – more natural-looking and lasting results.
Let’s take a look at some key beauty trends, with a sneak peek at what’s in and out for the coming year.
WHAT’S OUT FOR 2025
Overfilled Faces
The days of exaggerated, overfilled aesthetics are coming to an end. While injectables like dermal fillers remain a cornerstone of facial rejuvenation, the overly volumised “pillow-face” look and strange-looking “trout-pouts” that once dominated social media platforms are no longer in vogue. In 2024, issues like “filler migration” and the rising trend of dissolving fillers were hot topics on TikTok, reflecting a growing discontent with unnatural results.
At Dr Nerina Wilkinson + Associates, we understand that treating areas in isolation leads to exaggerated results (we don’t want this). To ensure subtle yet harmonious filler results, we have designed the signature N-Lift technique. With the Natural-Lift we precisely place small volumes of Hyaluronic Acid filler in multiple areas of the face to build deep structural support and shift the balance between the elevator and depressor muscles of the face. This allows light to naturally reflect from the skin, refining the facial profile and restoring youth.
Social Media Copycatting
Skincare and aesthetic trends originating on social media are losing their allure as consumers realise the pitfalls of one-size-fits-all solutions. While viral hacks and treatments may seem appealing, they often fail to consider individual skin types, concerns, and goals. What works for one influencer might not yield the same results for someone else—and, in some cases, could even cause harm.
The emphasis in 2025 will be on personalised aesthetics. Tailored treatment plans designed to address unique skin concerns and achieve specific goals are replacing generic, trend-driven approaches. This shift highlights the importance of consulting with professionals who understand the science behind skincare and can provide customised recommendations to achieve the most beautiful results.
Self-Help Skincare Shopping
Relying on self-diagnosis and purchasing skincare products online without expert guidance is another practice falling out of favour. While the internet offers a plethora of options, choosing the wrong products can exacerbate skin issues, leading to frustration and wasted money.
Professional consultations are becoming the gold standard for achieving radiant results. Skincare specialists have the expertise to assess individual needs and recommend products that are scientifically proven to work in synergy with specific skin types. This approach not only maximises efficacy but also ensures a more streamlined and effective skincare routine.
As we move into 2025, these shifts underscore the growing demand for authenticity, personalisation, and professional expertise in the world of skincare and aesthetics.
WHAT’S IN FOR 2025
Collagen Banking
As people become more proactive about skin health and addressing signs of aging, collagen banking is set to become a mainstream practice in the beauty industry. Collagen, the protein responsible for skin elasticity and youthfulness, naturally declines starting as early as the mid-twenties.
Collagen-stimulating treatments such as Morpheus8, medical skin needling, and certain laser therapies are gaining traction (have they ever lost it?) for their ability to “bank collagen”. These treatments not only enhance skin quality in the present but also invest in long-term skin health. This shift reflects a broader trend toward prioritising skin longevity over short-term anti-aging fixes, ensuring healthier, more resilient skin for years to come.
Liquid Gold Rejuvenation
The future of aesthetics is increasingly focused on harnessing the body’s natural regenerative capabilities. Techniques like platelet-rich plasma (PRP), platelet-rich fibrin (PRF), and stem cell therapies (often referred to as “the use of the body’s own liquid gold” are leading the way, offering a more organic approach to rejuvenation.
These methods utilise the body’s own resources to stimulate collagen production, improve skin texture, address signs of aging, and so much more! The result is a refreshed, natural look that avoids the artificial appearance often associated with more invasive procedures. As these technologies continue to evolve, they are becoming the go-to solutions for achieving lasting, authentic results.
At Dr Nerina Wilkinson + Associates, the signature 3D MD PRP (performed by an Aesthetic Doctor and Skincare Specialist simultaneously) and the scarless StemCell4DLift (performed by a Plastic Surgeon) remain two of the most popular approaches to rejuvenation as there are no scalpels involved and the results never disappoint.
Barrier Reparations
The importance of a healthy skin barrier cannot be overstated, and 2025 will see continued emphasis on barrier-repair skincare. Products and treatments (such as the Bespoke Recovery Booster) designed to support the outermost layer of the skin are becoming staples in skincare routines.
Determining whether overuse of products or other habits have led to a weakened skin barrier generally requires professional assessment. But when is it time to bring on the pro’s? Symptoms like redness, dryness, flakiness, or a tingling sensation can indicate barrier damage, though underlying conditions such as rosacea, eczema, or contact dermatitis may also be at play. Professional consultations are invaluable for identifying the root cause and creating an effective repair plan.
This growing focus on barrier health underscores the importance of a balanced approach to skincare, emphasizing protection and restoration to achieve a radiant, resilient complexion.
CONCLUSION
The beauty trends of 2025 reflect a deeper understanding of the science behind skin health and a shift toward personalised, sustainable practices. As overfilled faces and fleeting TikTok trends fade into the background, the industry is moving toward innovative treatments like collagen banking, regeneration from within, and barrier reparations. These trends emphasise longevity, natural beauty, and the importance of expert guidance.
Is it “out with the old and in with the new” for you too? Book a consultation with Dr. Nerina Wilkinson + Associates today and start your journey toward personalised radiance. Let our team of experts craft a bespoke plan to help you look and feel your best in 2025 and beyond!
Email us at skinclinic@drnwilkinson.co.za to start your bespoke journey today.
