2025 AAD: New Technologies for Face and Body Treatments
Skin tightening, innovations for cellulite and contouring, muscle stimulation methods, and hair restoration technology were the topics of “New Technologies for the Face and Body” presented by Neil Sadick, MD, FACP, FAACS, FACPh, FAAD, during the “Future of Cosmetic Dermatology” session at the 2025 American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) Annual Meeting in Orlando, Florida.
SKIN TIGHTENING INNOVATIONS
Dr. Sadick explained the benefits of using an internal and external approach for wand-based radiofrequency (WBR). This combination approach utilizes external and internal treatments and yields synergistic results. New use of microchanneling with fractional radiofrequency shows positive results for textural improvement.
The use of controlled directional application for skin tightening using a fractional biopolar radiofrequency (FR) is a non-invasive approach. This technique can be used for the face, submental and neck, breast lift and shaping, eyebrow and crow feet, under arm, decollete, and knee lifts.
A pilot study at Sadick Research Group had 10 patients between the ages of 35 and 60 receive three treatments to the upper neck and lower face areas with two follow-up appointments. The study found change in investigator rated global aesthetic improvement, subject satisfaction, and safety and tolerability.
Another area of innovation is microfocused ultrasound 2.0.
“The new Ultherapy platform is FDA-cleared for reaching deep tissue layers, offers shorter treatments and improved visualization and efficiency,” Dr. Sadick said.
The updated microcoring device (Ellacor) can remove up to 15% of skin non-invasively in the lower face and neck areas.
“The concept of microcoring is a novel way to address excess skin without resorting to surgery,” Dr. Sadick said.
The future of skin tightening looks bright as new devices are in the pipeline for addressing laxity in the face, but also non-invasive lifting in the breast area.
INNOVATIONS FOR CELLULITE/CONTOURING
“The hydrogel carbon black patch is a carbon wave treatment in a novel non-invasive treatment using a Q-switched Nd:YAG laser for cellulite and fat reduction,” Dr. Sadick said.
The hydrogel carbon black patch absorbs Q-Switched Nd:YAG laser energy to generate powerful acoustic waves. There is also no downtime for the patient and the treatment takes about 10 minutes.
MUSCLE STIMULATION METHODS
“Muscle toning devices have focused on the body, but now there is increasing data showing its efficacy in lifting the face,” Dr. Sadick explained.
It requires simultaneous, noninvasive RF and facial muscle stimulation. The typical protocol for treatment is 4 to 6 weeks of treatment.
However, the way this treatment fits in with relaxing the muscles with a neuromodulator, he said, is “still to be determined.”
At-home devices, such as LED light therapy, microcurrent technology, radiofrequency devices, and cleansing devices, are the fastest growing sector in cosmetic technology for the face and body. The FDA has cleared LED light therapy devices for anti-aging and acne treatment that can be safely used at home. Professional-grade facial toning devices using microcurrent technology have been adapted for home use. Radiofrequency devices for advanced skin tightening solutions have been designed for safe home application. Lastly, professional-grade sonic cleaning technology is now available for daily maintenance.
HAIR RESTORATION TECHNOLOGY
The FDA-cleared the first fractional laser for hair loss. FoLix is the first FDA-approved fractional laser for hair that stimulates follicle growth and increased hair counts in both women and men. The fractional laser delivers targeted energy deep into the skin, heating the dermal layer without damaging the surface.
“Fractional lasers are showing their versatility by taking on the hair and scalp field,” Dr. Sadick said.
The treatment is quick, about 30 minutes per session, and comfortable for patients requiring no downtime or anesthesia. The initial treatment plan requires about four to six sessions with 4-week intervals and maintenance treatment should be done two to three times per year.