“Acidic skincare” and “microdose regimes” billed as top 2022 skin trends
Three skincare acids in particular – tranexamic, azelaic and polyhydroxy – are billed to dominate skincare beauty trends this year, along with skincare microdosing, according to Wunderman Thompson’s The Future 100: 2022 report.
The creative agency and consumer brand consultancy predict that beauty industry marketing will move away from the benefits of better-known acids such as salicylic, hyaluronic and glycolic; and towards new, “buzzy” ingredients for skincare consumers to discover.
Tranexamic acid will be touted for its abilities to help fade sun damage and other types of pigmentation, while azelaic acid’s skin-firming properties and the power of polyhydroxy acid to hydrate while exfoliating even sensitive skins will be promoted.
Meanwhile, a different approach to applying skincare products called microdosing will become popular, according to Wunderman Thompson. It involves applying smaller amounts or concentrations of ingredients, apparently reducing “harsh side effects” and giving skin a better chance at improving. Some niche skincare brands already produce products in “dosed” blister pack-type packaging to allow users to tailor their skincare to their skin’s day-to-day needs and only buy what they anticipate they will actually use.
The report predicts this format will become more popular with skincare brands and individual products that contain bioavailable, microdosed ingredients – a delivery mechanism designed not to sensitise the skin, therefore working more effectively and consistently over time.