In the fast-evolving world of beauty, emerging trends continually shape our skincare routines. As we look toward 2026, experts in dermatology are weighing in on the essentials of skincare, highlighting a shift towards more sustainable practices and products that support long-term skin health.
As a beauty editor, I’m always eager to identify the upcoming trends. What will dominate the hair, makeup, and skincare scenes in 2026? What products, ingredients, or techniques are set to take over Instagram and TikTok? Trend-spotting is an exhilarating part of my role, allowing me to stay ahead of the curve.
I’ve already gleaned insights on the major 2026 hair and makeup trends thanks to my stylish and perpetually trend-savvy colleagues. However, one significant category was overlooked: skincare. To fill this gap, I consulted with dermatologists, and they unanimously agree: 2026 will focus on skin longevity. Consumers will shift toward simpler, more efficient routines that prioritize long-lasting skin health. Read on for detailed insights and product recommendations.
IN: Skin Longevity
Aderonke Obayomi, MD, MPH, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist at Mount Sinai in NYC, indicates that we are moving away from quick fixes. Emphasis now lies on skin longevity, highlighting the importance of maintaining healthy, youthful skin over time. “We’re shifting from chasing viral ingredients to building sustainable skin health,” she explains. “Patients are becoming more educated and asking, ‘Will this actually work long-term?’ rather than just seeking instant results. It’s about nurturing your skin’s natural functions—maintaining a robust barrier, using sunscreen daily, and consistently employing proven ingredients.”
This aligns with the overarching 2026 wellness trend, which emphasizes long-term optimization over short-term solutions. According to Krysha Mallari, a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner at Body+Beauty Lab, “Practices emphasizing safety, individualized care, and long-term optimization will stand out and yield the most significant results.” The intrinsic connection between beauty and wellness is clear, making this transformation quite expected.
Obayomi underscores the importance of consistency in achieving skin longevity, advocating for products that people will *actually* use every day. Her top recommendation? Sunscreen. “I endorse EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen SPF 46 ($45) and La Roche-Posay Anthelios Sunscreen ($36) as they work seamlessly under makeup. For a treatment offering long-term benefits, I recommend CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum ($19), accessible yet effective without harshness. Peptide serums are also surging in popularity as a gentler method to promote collagen booster, with my personal favorite being SkinCeuticals P-TIOX ($150).
Shop the Edit:
EltaMD
UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
OUT: Beef Tallow and Other “Natural” or DIY Remedies
Beef tallow, previously a trending topic, is now being scrutinized. Often used in cooking, it gained popularity in skincare, but Obayomi believes its impact will diminish in 2026 due to its lack of effectiveness. “Many patients come to me asking about it after seeing it on TikTok,” she states. “However, beef tallow is not the miracle moisturizer people think it is.” It may not only clog pores, particularly for acne-prone skin but also lacks sufficient research to support its efficacy in skincare.
Furthermore, homemade skincare formulas have also lost traction. Obayomi observes, “DIY mask trends are waning as people realize the importance of consistent, well-formulated products.”
