Founder & Medical Director at New York Cosmetic Skin & Laser Surgery Center
Answered 3 months ago
For budget anti aging, I stick to basics that work in real skin. Use broad spectrum SPF, a gentle cleanser, and a moisturizer that supports the barrier. Add a retinoid slowly if you tolerate it. I found a study that pooled 23 randomized trials with 3,905 people and compared topicals for photoaging. Retinol and tretinoin improved fine wrinkles, and tretinoin ranked best for tolerability. Glycolic acid helped roughness but caused more side effects. Tazarotene worked best for deeper wrinkles yet irritated more often. Send your questions and I can return written answers within four days.