You heard it hear first—the next big thing in skincare will be products that focus on longevity. The science behind this has long existed, and now, we’re finally seeing the fruits of skin scientists’ labour. What was once theoretical can now be bottled up into fixes that we can integrate into our routine. Luxury brands such as Tatcha and Sisley have already staked their claim in this area with the respective releases of The Longevity Serum and the Sisleÿa Longevity Essential Serum, marking the rise of a new trend in skincare.
On the surface, it seems that longevity science is the antithesis of anti-ageing. To emphasise the distinction between the two, we spoke to two aesthetic medical practitioners: Dr Nurul Ain Abdullah of Alainn Clinic and Dr Christie Moey of Maple Clinic. First of all, neither doctor negates the value of the two approaches. They are there to cater to different segments of the audience, addressing two separate concerns. “Anti-ageing is about reversing or correcting the visible signs of ageing. Longevity science in skincare, on the other hand, is about supporting the health and resilience of the skin in the long run,” says Dr Moey. Dr Ain seconds this: “Anti-ageing is more reactive; longevity is more preventive and regenerative.”
Past consumer behaviour informs what is currently taking shape. Over a decade ago, we heard of how young adults should all start using skincare early and structure a routine based on our skin types. But the most promising items on the menu were anything with anti-ageing claims, and that seemed to be the biggest concern for anyone. Ageing was viewed as a disease, and the physical manifestations of symptoms—like wrinkles and pigmentation—were then equated to personal shortcomings. Today, as more and more progressive views take shape, ageing is no longer the enemy; it’s the reality we’ve begun to accept. And that’s when the real work can start.
Dr Moey shares a truth bomb: Ageing is natural, and reversing age is not scientifically possible. “People are no longer chasing the idea of looking ten years younger. Instead, they want to look healthy, confident, and vibrant at every age,” she adds. Pro-ageing is the term she floats as the new approach to skincare. “They are choosing treatments and skincare that work with the skin’s biology, not against it.”
In Dr Ain’s books, this shift is just a facet that reflects the overall change in mindset. “People are taking a genuine interest in biohacking, wellness optimisation, and personalised treatments. Now, they’re adopting the same language and philosophy to their skincare habits,” says Dr Ain. “They no longer want fast fixes; they want sustainable results across the board.”
With those replies, we do wonder if this marks the end of the anti-ageing “rhetoric”. Both doctors agree that while this won’t be the case, the shift away from it will be clear. “The language will evolve. ‘Anti-ageing’ suggests ageing is something negative, when it’s natural and beautiful,” Dr Ain posits. “It doesn’t really align with how people feel today. The goal is to age well. Longevity is therefore more inclusive, uplifting, and science-driven,” says Dr Moey.
In no way is this the next “miracle”. You’re not going to shop for a bottle of longevity serum, use it until the very last drop, and see a drastic change. Drs. Ain and Moey note that it will, in fact, have a very subtle impact. What you will see, however, according to the two aesthetic medicine practitioners, is fewer flare-ups, more stable hydration, improved tolerance, a stronger skin barrier, and long-term resilience. “There won’t be any instant gratification, because it’s a long-term investment in your skin health,” Dr Ain affirms. Dr Moey agrees, adding, “You will see the results over the years. The difference then will become very obvious. Yes, it’s a slow and steady regimen, but it has a compounding effect.”
This story first appeared on GRAZIA Malaysia December 2025/January 2026 issue.
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