Anti-Aging Treatment

FAQs

What is the difference between Tretinoin and Azelaic Acid?
Tretinoin is the gold-standard in prescription anti-aging. It speeds up cell turnover, smooths fine lines and wrinkles, improves collagen production and skin elasticity, and helps improve uneven skin texture. 

Azelaic Acid is a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agent that targets hyperpigmentation, reduces redness, fades dark spots and melasma, and gently exfoliates for a brighter complexion.

Do I need both treatments?
While some people prefer to use both of the treatments together, many people choose one treatment based on their skin concerns. We can help you decide which treatment may be most beneficial for your skin. 

What is the "retinization" process and what side effects should I expect?
When starting Tretinoin, your skin goes through an adjustment period called retinization, lasting 2 to 6 weeks. You may experience mild dryness, peeling, redness, or temporary irritation. Starting with a lower concentration, applying medication every 2 to 3 nights, and buffering with a gentle moisturizer helps minimize these symptoms as your skin adapts.

How long does it take to see visible anti-aging results?
Skin brightening and texture improvements from Azelaic Acid can often be seen within 4 to 8 weeks. For Tretinoin, initial improvements in skin smoothness appear around 8 to 12 weeks, while major structural benefits (such as collagen synthesis and visible reduction in fine lines) typically require 3 to 6 months of consistent use.

How do I integrate these prescription treatments into my daily skincare routine?Generally, Tretinoin should be applied at night to clean, dry skin because light degrades retinoic acid. Azelaic Acid can be applied either once daily in the morning or twice daily alongside Tretinoin, depending on your clinician's custom regimen and your skin's tolerance. Always finish your morning routine with a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen, as Tretinoin increases sensitivity to UV light.