As the seasons change, so should your skincare routine. Dr. Dendy Engelman, a board-certified dermatologist at the Shafer Clinic in New York, shared the top five skincare trends shaping fall 2026 with Cosmopolitan. From anti-inflammatory ingredients to next-generation sunscreen filters, here's what to know.
1. New-Age Anti-Inflammatories
The focus is shifting from aggressive actives to ingredients that calm and repair. Dr. Engelman highlights PDRN (salmon sperm DNA), exosomes, and ectoin as the breakout stars. Ectoin, a stress-protective molecule, is particularly promising for barrier support and hydration, making it ideal for soothing serums and moisturizers.
2. Playing the Long Game: Skin Longevity
Instead of asking "How do I stop aging?", the new question is "How do I keep my skin functioning optimally for as long as possible?" Brands are targeting "zombie cells"—aged cells that contribute to inflammation. In-office treatments like radiofrequency, RF microneedling, and biostimulators such as Sculptra are gaining popularity for collagen remodeling without fillers.
3. Superior Sunscreen
The FDA recently approved BEMT, the first new sunscreen filter in the U.S. in over 25 years. Early formulas from brands like Neutrogena and Ultra-Violette offer a lightweight, cosmetically elegant feel similar to popular Korean sunscreens. Expect a wave of new SPF launches this fall.
4. The Milky Way
Milky textures are everywhere—toners, serums, moisturizers, even sunscreen. These products are typically hydrating, nourishing, soothing, and smoothing. They work well as makeup primer/skincare hybrids and create a silky canvas that keeps skin hydrated and glowy all day.
5. Plump as a Peach
With the GLP-1 boom causing rapid weight loss and skin laxity, demand for plumping products is surging. Hyaluronic acid and advanced peptides like copper peptides (GHK-Cu) support youthful-looking fullness. In-office radiofrequency treatments like XERF and Everesse are also trending for improving skin quality and laxity without surgery.
Source: Cosmopolitan — One of NYC's Most Sought-After Dermatologists Shared the Top 5 Skincare Trends of Fall 2026 by Beth Gillette, published September 21, 2026.
Looking for professional skincare treatments in New York?
At Candy Beauty Skin Care, we specialize in advanced facial treatments including LED light therapy, anti-aging protocols, and barrier-repair facials tailored to your skin's unique needs. Our licensed estheticians stay ahead of the latest trends to deliver results that match what top dermatologists recommend.
📍 Visit us today and discover why Candy Beauty is the trusted choice for glowing, healthy skin.
