In the world of anti-ageing beauty, more is no longer better.
“Skin needs balance and support, not overload,” explains aesthetician Keren Bartov, whose client list reads like a seating chart for a major awards ceremony: Victoria Beckham and Stella McCartney are regulars; Meg Ryan visits her four-storey Notting Hill clinic weekly; Julia Roberts and Eva Mendes pop in whenever they’re in London; Kim Kardashian is a fan of Bartov’s eponymous product line. Earlier this year, Bartov also prepped BAFTA nominees Kate Hudson and Teyana Taylor ahead of the ceremony.
Rather than throwing every product, procedure and new technology at the face, Bartov believes in a restrained approach that addresses individual concerns without overwhelming the skin and causing irritation, a philosophy that applies equally to women and men. What does this complexion expert believe every anti-ageing regimen should include in 2026? For starters, these salves, tools and treatments. If you can secure an appointment with her as well, all the better.
1. Use Gentle Acids to Refine
Texture and Brightness
“The primary concern I hear from clients is loss of vitality,” Bartov says. To combat this, she recommends a brightening serum formulated with a blend of non-irritating acids that act as “a gentle and controlled renewal treatment that improves texture and luminosity without compromising the skin barrier.” In essence, they exfoliate away dull, dead skin cells while avoiding the harshness that can lead to redness or damage.
2. SPF is Absolute Essential
Bartov describes sunscreen as “the foundation” of antiageing protection. “Pigmentation, loss of elasticity and premature fine lines are directly linked to cumulative UV exposure,” she says. Without daily sun protection, “no treatment or serum can truly deliver long-term results.” Her advice: choose a broad-spectrum SPF and reapply every two hours during sun exposure.
3. Target Ageing with Tixel
and a Salmon DNA Infusion
Hormonal changes and their effects on skin elasticity, thickness and texture have become a major skincare talking point in 2026, Bartov says. To help “enhance elasticity and restore vitality in skin affected by hormonal or environmental changes,” she recommends the Tixel treatment. Used in clinics, the device gently heats tiny areas of the skin, creating precise micro-channels that allow advanced regenerative ingredients — such as purified salmon DNA — to penetrate more effectively.
Salmon DNA has attracted attention in recent years for its potential to stimulate collagen production, helping skin appear firmer while reducing inflammation. The treatment is suitable for all skin types and offers minimal downtime compared with more invasive procedures.
4. Support In-Clinic Treatments with an At-Home Device
“When I recommend a home device, I look for technology that extends the work done in the clinic — something that supports firmness, vitality and renewal gradually and consistently,” Bartov says. The Wand from her skincare line combines radio frequency, red light and infrared therapy to “improve tone, circulation and biological activity within the skin.” For best results, she advises using it three to four times per week.
5. Choose Gentle yet Effective Ingredients in Face Creams
Bartov notes that she is seeing more sensitive, irritated skin caused by the overuse of potent active ingredients. A good moisturiser, she says, should not only hydrate the skin’s surface but also support the microbiome — the ecosystem that helps defend against harmful bacteria and environmental stressors such as pollution, both of which can accelerate visible ageing.
6. Opt for Less Aggressive Treatments With Natural Results
Bartov is observing “a clear shift away from fillers and invasive procedures.” The era of overly plumped cheeks, exaggerated lips and dramatic surgical interventions is giving way to “more intelligent long-term maintenance” and subtler results.
One treatment she often recommends is Microwave Lift using the Onda Pro device, which targets deeper layers of tissue to stimulate collagen production and reduce pockets of fat, particularly under the chin. “It tightens facial contours, especially along the jawline and chin,” she says. “The results are natural and precise, with no downtime required.