Beyond The Needle: The New Age of Aesthetic Treatments

Harpers Bazaar Arabia

22-05-2025

The aesthetic landscape is changing. Gone are the days when filler was the default go-to as now more of us are dissolving overfilled faces in favour of smarter, more sophisticated treatments that deliver long-term rejuvenation
In recent months, I've noticed fewer people are coming in specifically for dermal filler,' says Dr. Mehri Pourkand, Aesthetic Doctor and Founder of Dr Mehri Aesthetic Clinic. 'Patients are increasingly opting for the latest advanced devices and skin boosters that not only deliver great, almost instant results, but also work beneath the surface to genuinely improve skin quality over time. It's no longer just about filling lines or adding volume; people want treatments that enhance their natural features, boost collagen, and slow the signs of ageing in a more subtle, sustainable way.'
Dr. Hassan Galadari, Dermatologist at Galadari Clinic, confirms the shift. 'More and more people are choosing to dissolve their filler in favour of a softer, more 'undone done' look – where enhancements are subtle, natural, and you can't quite tell what's been done. That's why technologies like Morpheus8 and regenerative treatments like polynucleotides and exosomes are booming right now. They don't just change the shape of the face; they actually work to strengthen, smooth and rejuvenate the skin itself, helping people to age better rather than just chase quick fixes.'
The new wave? Cutting-edge technologies that stimulate the skin's natural healing processes, reverse damage, and delay ageing. These are the treatments that actually work – no quick fixes, just real, lasting results.
EXOSOMES
THE WHAT: Exosomes are tiny extracellular vesicles (aka bubbles) derived from stem cells, packed with growth factors, proteins, and lipids that communicate with your skin cells to accelerate repair and regeneration. Think of them as microscopic messengers instructing your skin to heal itself faster, smarter, better. They can be sourced from humans, plants, or animals, or they can be lab engineered.
THE HOW: After microneedling or laser treatment (to create micro-channels for deeper absorption), a serum containing exosomes is applied topically or infused into the skin. The procedure is minimally invasive, with little to no downtime – just slight redness that fades within hours.
THE WHY: Exosomes reprogramme your skin. They reduce inflammation, boost collagen and elastin production, and improve texture, tone, and elasticity for a fresher, more youthful complexion that improves in the weeks following treatment. They're suitable for all skin types, and – instead of irritating your skin – they help strengthen it, improve hydration, and calm things down.
THE WHERE: For cutting-edge exosome therapy, AEON Clinic stands apart with medical-grade formulations and bespoke treatment plans designed by longevity specialists. Their integrative approach – combining exosomes with regenerative therapies – delivers unparalleled rejuvenation, all in the chicest of spaces. theaeonclinic.com
MORPHEUS8
THE WHAT: A hybrid of microneedling and radiofrequency (RF), Morpheus8 remodels the skin from the inside out by delivering RF energy deep into the dermis and subdermal layers. It's the gold standard for skin tightening, scar revision, and overall facial contouring.
THE HOW: Tiny needles puncture the skin while simultaneously delivering RF heat, triggering a wound-healing response that stimulates collagen and elastin. The treatment can be adjusted for depth and intensity, making it customisable for concerns ranging from fine lines to deep acne scars. A numbing cream is applied beforehand, and while it's not painless, the discomfort is brief – followed by a few days of redness and mild swelling.
THE WHY: Morpheus8 restores your skin's natural architecture. It tightens laxity, smooths texture, shrinks pores, and even improves stubborn body concerns (think crepey décolletage or post-pregnancy laxity). Results build over three to six months, with effects lasting years, not months.
THE WHERE: For the ultimate Morpheus8 treatment, Orskin's team – trained across three continents – delivers those 'have you just come back from holiday?' results through their expertly tailored sessions. orskin.ae
POLYNUCLEOTIDES
THE WHAT: Polynucleotides (PNs) are the building blocks of DNA, derived from natural sources like salmon. Yes, this is where the salmon seed facial comes from. When injected into the skin, they act as bio-stimulators, enhancing cellular repair and hydration at a fundamental level.
THE HOW: Delivered via microneedling or injections, PNs integrate into the skin's extracellular matrix, promoting tissue regeneration. The treatment is quick (around 30 minutes), with minimal downtime – some temporary redness or slight swelling or bumps at most. A course of three sessions, spaced two to four weeks apart, is typically recommended for optimal results.
THE WHY: Polynucleotides increase fibroblast activity (hello, collagen), improve skin density, and enhance moisture retention for a dewier, more resilient complexion. They're particularly great for those with thinning, ageing skin or anyone looking to undo sun damage without heavy lasers or filler.
BBL
THE WHAT: BBL (broadband light) is an advanced form of IPL (intense pulsed light) that uses precise wavelengths to target pigmentation, redness, and signs of ageing. But unlike old-school IPL, modern BBL is smarter, more powerful, and capable of actually reversing the genetic markers of ageing.
THE HOW: A handheld device delivers pulses of light that break down melanin (for dark spots) or hemoglobin (for redness) while heating the deeper dermis to stimulate collagen. The treatment feels like quick rubber-band snaps and requires no downtime – just strict sun avoidance afterwards. Most see results after one session, but a series of 3-5 maximizes benefits.
THE WHY: Studies show BBL can alter gene expression associated with ageing, effectively turning back time. It erases sun damage, evens tone, reduces fine lines, stimulates collagen production, and leaves skin glowing. The ultimate preventative treatment for those who want to age gracefully, without looking like they've had work done.
LED THERAPY
THE WHAT: LED (light-emitting diode) therapy uses different wavelengths of light to trigger specific skin responses – red for collagen stimulation, blue for acne bacteria, yellow for redness and rosacea, green for sensitivity and pigmentation, and near infrared for deep repair. Once a niche treatment, it's now a must for anyone serious about maintaining their skin long-term.
THE HOW: Non-invasive and painless, LED involves sitting under a panel of lights for 10 to 30 minutes. No downtime, no discomfort – just a relaxing, sci-fi-esque experience. Best used as a course (two to three times a week initially, then monthly for maintenance) or paired with other treatments (like microneedling) to enhance results.
THE WHY: LED is the ultimate supporting player in any skin regimen. It's the perfect treatment for those who want to prolong their results, without a needle in sight.