What is an alternative to Retin-a for anti-aging?

Question

I used prescription retin-a for years with terrific results. I used it as an anti-aging product as I am now 54. Suddenly 2 years ago I developed eczema on my face, chest and neck and had to stop using it. Can you suggest an alternative that will not cause my eczema to flare? Currently I use skinceuticals vitamin c serum, a good rose hip oil and a moisturizer for my condition with good results but nothing like the good results I once had with Retin-a. Thank you!

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

at home peels like cosmelan, enlighten and aerify along with dermarolling (MTS roller with anteage MD ampules weekly, see linkt) should be started now to prevent further aging.  retin a does very little for aging, you need emerageskin AOX c in the am with janmarini bioclear cream and skinceuticals phytoplus.  twice daily growth factor and stem cells with emerageskin refit face and eye as well as anteage md serum + accelerator.  at night retinol (reve skin 1.0 or sente bio intensive).

For facial rejuvenation,  I would suggest a combination approach of 
1) skin care with products and PRP/microneedling
2) PDT light therapy few times a month with growth factors
3) laser treatments like clear and brilliant regularly and a few times a year Fraxel/halo Viva, Co2/Erbium
4) Sculptra injections a few times a year for collagen production with fillers like juvederm/restylane/belotero/radiesse/bellafill
5) thermage/ultherapy for yearly skin tightening with or without PDO or cone based instalift threads for lifting
6) botox every 2-3 months to stop movement lines and prevent lines at rest
7) deep microneedling RF like Fractora/morpheus8 for tightening of the skin
8) Vascular laser like vbeam/excel V or BBL forever young treatment every quarter (3-4 months)

Best, Dr. Emer.

Lauren Boudreaux, DO, FAAD · Answer

I frequently have eczema patients that we will use retinoids or retinoid alternatives with. It is really important to make sure your eczema is under adequate control prior to starting these topicals. There are many alternatives made by cosmeceutical companies, but you should review with your dermatologist prior to starting. Some examples include retinols, light alpha hydroxyacids, and delayed-release retinoids. Rx options would be Altreno or Akleif, which have been way less irritating.

Susan Fox, DO, RPVI · Answer

Hello, we love anteage stem cell serum and accelerator.  It contains growth factors which are great for anti aging and isn't an aggressive exfoliant like retin-a.  Good luck!

What is an alternative to Retin-a for anti-aging?

Answers (3)

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Skin Rejuvenation

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

What is an alternative to Retin-a for anti-aging?

Answers (3)

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Skin Rejuvenation

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.