Thanks to increasingly sophisticated technology (and Zoom-induced dysmorphia), the demand for non-surgical cosmetic treatments shows no signs of slowing down. However, the needle is shifting from the obviously enhanced “Instagram face” aesthetic that has dominated in recent years to a more natural look, via “tweakments” that bring subtlety to the fore.

From formulas that impart a ‘woke-up-like-this’ glow to new methods of body shaping, these are the latest cosmetic procedures trending internationally. While some of the treatments aren’t yet available in New Zealand, we suggest keeping an eye out so that when they do arrive, you can be first in line.

Morpheus8 Advanced Radio-Frequency Treatment
The combination of radio-frequency with micro-needling has been a favourite for a while, but the Moprheus8 treatment pledges to take it to the next level (literally). Using insulated microneedles, it targets the deeper layers of the skin on both face and body, effectively remodelling fatty tissue — and can address the deflation of soft tissue, like ageing jowls. The technology is also “colour-blind”, meaning it can be used on a variety of light and dark skin tones without the worry of hyperpigmentation. While treatments that hit the deep layers under the dermis aren’t for the faint-hearted, Morpheus8 promises little to no damage to the skin’s surface, resulting in a very uniform effect that makes way for truly impressive results.

Qwo Injectable for Cellulite
In the US, the FDA has approved the first injectable solution for fighting that pesky orange peel skin. Named Qwo, this treatment is touted as a relatively non-invasive option that works by dissolving the subdermal fibrous bands that cause deep skin depressions, thereby permanently releasing them and smoothing out the surface of the skin. It also does this without leaving loose skin in its wake, as Qwo stimulates the production of new collagen molecules. Approved for use on the buttocks, it’s also being used in off-label areas like the thighs, with good results recorded for moderate and severe cellulite that last for a few years, according to current research. 

Emsculpt Neo
Body sculpting treatments are trending upwards (something to do with all the sitting around we’ve done during Covid, perhaps), and while the Emsculpt and subsequent Neo version were launched a couple of years ago, both are garnering renewed interest currently due to this uptake. Endorsed by the likes of Jennifer Lopez and Denise Richards, the non-surgical treatment is administered to the abdomen, buttocks and/or thighs via a large paddle, which then delivers high-intensity electromagnetic pulses to the muscles, causing them to contract. This reportedly has the same strengthening and toning effect of 20,000 manual crunches or squats, in one 30 minute session. Where the newer Neo differs is that it combines radiofrequency with the electromagnetic pulses, which burn through fat stores as the pulses contract the muscle for even more impressive results.

Prollenium Revanesse Versa Filler
Founded in Canada, recently landed in the UK and hopefully on its way to us soon, this release from medical technologies company Prollenium is a hyaluronic acid dermal filler that promises natural, long-lasting results. Where Revanesse claims to set itself apart from the likes of Juvederm (another hyaluronic acid filler), is that it doesn’t break down as quickly, and it is easier to mould and more natural feeling — and looking. This is because it uses a special technology known as cross-linking, which increases stability. As such, it says that many people can enjoy results for 10 to 14 months, depending on the severity of their skin concerns and how well they respond to the treatment.