The year 2025 was remarkable for skincare trends. In spring, polynucleotides—DNA-derived compounds from salmon—led cosmetic treatments, used in facials to repair and hydrate the skin. By summer, LED face masks gained popularity for reducing acne and stimulating collagen production. Autumn saw a strong return of the “glass skin” look. With the start of 2026, it’s clear that even more innovations are on the horizon. Here are five trends experts predict will dominate the skincare scene in 2026, catering to all skin types and budgets.
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1. The New Wave of Korean Skincare
Korean skincare products continue to lead in skin health and appeal. According to Mia Park, founder of Lazy Skincare in New York, the Korean skincare craze is just the beginning of what Korean science can offer. In 2026, more innovations are expected in textures, plant-based ingredients, and multifunctional formulations. Korean treatments will also see stronger integration in aesthetic clinics, with new injection techniques and advanced tools to stimulate collagen and elastin, such as Dynamic Micro Massage (LDM) using dual-frequency ultrasound.
2. Gradual Ingredient Application
For those overusing potent ingredients like retinoids, chemical exfoliants, or vitamin C, the trend of gradual ingredient application may be ideal. Many brands now use encapsulation techniques, where active ingredients are surrounded by tiny moisturizing capsules that release gradually, ensuring effectiveness while reducing irritation.
Examples include The Inkey List’s new retinol serum, which uses encapsulated retinol to treat uneven skin tone, texture, and fine lines while minimizing dryness or flaking. Experienced users can try the 0.2% retinal serum from the same brand, which works faster than retinol with fewer conversion steps into active retinoic acid, also encapsulated to reduce irritation.
3. Skin Luxury Through Comfort
In 2026, skincare culture emphasizes calmness and comfort over product overload. Bloomberg notes that skin wellness is the new trend, with successful products supporting relaxation and low-stress routines. Matcha and green tea are expected to gain prominence for their antioxidant properties, helping counter urban stress and enhancing a soothing experience.
4. Streamlining Essentials
Many women assume higher-priced products are more effective, but dermatologist Ofelia Veraitch told Refinery29 that simple, affordable products—especially cleansers and moisturizers—can be highly effective. When it comes to hydration, simplicity is best, particularly when using serums with active ingredients like retinol, vitamin C, or chemical exfoliants.
Dr. Veraitch advises allocating the budget to actives suited to specific skin types and concerns: niacinamide for oily or acne-prone skin, hyaluronic acid for dry skin, and a broad-spectrum sunscreen with high SPF.
5. Simplicity as a New Luxury
In 2026, longer routines won’t be the most appealing—smarter routines will be. With tighter budgets and dermatologists warning that overly complex multi-step routines can backfire, consumers are expected to favor fewer products, clearer choices, and multifunctional formulations.
These five trends highlight how skincare in 2026 will balance science, simplicity, and self-care, making routines effective without unnecessary complexity.
