The value of self-care spending continues to rise, with growing interest in medical aesthetics and skincare across all genders and age groups. As seasons change, each life stage brings unique skin reactions and concerns. So, as the hottest medical beauty trend of the new year, is it truly right for you?

1. PDRN (Polydeoxyribonucleotide)

The buzz surrounding PDRN continues to grow. Extracted from salmon DNA, this fragment boasts high compatibility with human DNA. As a key ingredient for skin regeneration, it stimulates collagen production to promote wound healing and tissue repair— such as alleviating inflammation, strengthening the skin barrier, and improving fine lines and sagging—thereby delivering restorative, anti-aging, and moisturizing benefits.In recent years, it has gained widespread attention through the Korean medical aesthetics brand Rejuran.

PDRN, with its dual buffers of collagen catalysts and skin repair factors, delivers remarkable results in repairing sensitive skin. However, its effectiveness varies depending on usage methods and individual skin types.Generally, its high biological compatibility with human DNA prevents immune system rejection, making it gentle and low-irritating—ideal for sensitive skin. For post-procedure or acne-prone skin repair, clinical studies show it effectively reduces inflammation-induced redness and irritation. Lastly, PDRN products combining hyaluronic acid and amino acids, such as Lizulan Repairing Hydrating Essence, are particularly suited for boosting moisture levels in dry, sensitive skin.

2. Exosomes

The widely beloved new star in skin regeneration consists of nanoscale vesicles secreted by cells. These intercellular bridges carry abundant bioactive substances, such as proteins that regulate cell growth and development, and nucleic acids that influence gene expression to activate regenerative mechanisms.When skin encounters exosomes, it automatically receives signals transmitted to target cells. Through biological responses that repair, regenerate, and reduce inflammation, the skin's self-regenerative power is enhanced, effectively combating aging and improving skin quality.

While safer, more stable, and nano-sized exosomes with superior penetration capabilities are indeed beneficial, more is not necessarily better. When selecting exosomes, it is crucial to carefully consider their purity and concentration ratio. Products with low purity may contain impurities that compromise efficacy. Exosomes are fragile, active substances, so improper storage can affect their activity and stability. When choosing, always pay close attention to their source.

3. Stem Cell

Stem cells are primitive cells with the ability to self-renew and differentiate into multiple cell types. In medical aesthetics, adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are primarily extracted from fat tissue. Through in vitro processing—including separation, culture, and purification—these cells produce abundant growth factors and exosomes. The resulting product is then injected into the skin to stimulate the regeneration of elastic fibers.Common regenerative medicine therapies like stem cell hydrating injections and youth-restoring injections emphasize natural tissue repair from the inside out. Beyond cosmetic applications, these techniques are also utilized in surgical medical treatments.

4. Collagen

Collagen in medical aesthetic treatments is typically categorized into injectable and device-based procedures:

Injectable: Specific ingredients are injected into the dermis to stimulate fibroblast regeneration, achieving an autologous effect. This method provides natural, gradual filling and improves skin fullness and elasticity, such as Youthful Appearance Injections and Panda Eye Injections.

Instrument-based:Utilizes high thermal energy to deeply heat the skin, stimulating collagen reorganization and regeneration. This approach offers immediate tightening effects while promoting collagen production to smooth fine lines, exemplified by treatments like Thermage and HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound). However, the thermal impact necessitates careful skin hydration, and results vary from person to person.

For those seeking a natural, firming effect to improve facial hollows, fine lines, and sagging, collagen treatments can deliver more natural and long-lasting results. However, such procedures should still be undertaken based on a professional assessment.

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