Anti-Aging Practices

Anti-Aging Dos

Follow a Proper Anti-Aging Skincare Routine

Anti-aging practices is for when you get past the point of just doing the skincare basics. Your skincare needs are going to change with the seasons but also while you reach adulthood. There is a skincare brand called Agency by Cureology. Your skincare routine is prescribed for you by a licensed dermatology provider and is custom made just for your specific needs. The following 3 products are prescription strength, but there are other skincare products picked for you that are not considered prescription strength.

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Personalized Anti-Aging Future Formula

Everyone’s skin is different, which means every anti-aging formula from Agency is personalized by a dermatologist. Because the ingredients are tailored, your moisturizer may include some of the following actives depending on your unique needs.

Anti-Aging Skin Renewal

Tretinoin

This stimulates keratinocyte proliferation and epidermal thickening, increases collagen and elastin synthesis, and inhibits matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-1, MMP-8) that degrade collagen. It improves fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and skin texture. Long-term use (22 months) showed a 71% reduction in age spots, significant epidermal thickening, and sustained wrinkle reduction.

Azelaic Acid in Personalized Anti-Aging

Azelaic Acid

An antibacterial and anti-inflammatory, effective against Cutibacterium acnes and Staphylococcus epidermidis, helping reduce acne without contributing to antibiotic resistance. It also calms inflammation, making it ideal for rosacea and sensitive skin. Azelaic acid inhibits tyrosinase, the enzyme responsible for melanin production, helping fade post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and melasma. A 20% formulation has shown comparable efficacy to hydroquinone, but with fewer side effects.

It also gently exfoliates by normalizing keratinization, preventing clogged pores and comedonal acne. Unlike AHAs or BHAs, it resurfaces without disrupting the skin barrier. Azelaic acid is safe for long-term use, well-tolerated even in pregnancy, and has synergistic potential: a 2023 Journal of Dermatological Science study found that combining 15% azelaic acid with 2% salicylic acid and 5% niacinamide led to a 45% reduction in acne lesions and 30% improvement in pigmentation over 12 weeks.

Tranexamic Acid for Anti-Aging Pigmentation Support

Tranexamic Acid

It inhibits melanin production by blocking the interaction between melanocytes and keratinocytes through the plasminogen/plasmin system, reducing the release of inflammatory mediators like prostaglandins and arachidonic acid, which stimulate melanin synthesis. It is effective for melasma and hyperpigmentation, with studies showing topical TXA significantly reduces melasma and sun-induced pigmentation by suppressing melanocyte activity and vascular factors like VEGF and TGF-β. Tranexamic acid also has anti-inflammatory and barrier-stabilizing properties, reducing mast cell activity and cytokine release, helping calm redness and inflammation.

A 2019 clinical study found that 5% TXA cream was as effective as 3% hydroquinone in reducing melasma, but with higher patient satisfaction due to lower irritation. TXA also works synergistically with niacinamide, vitamin C, and kojic acid to enhance brightening effects while minimizing irritation, making it ideal for sensitive skin types.

Niacinamide’s Anti-Aging Benefits

Niacinamide

Niacinamide strengthens the skin barrier by boosting ceramide, free fatty acid, and cholesterol synthesis in keratinocytes, improving barrier integrity and reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL). It brightens and evens skin tone by inhibiting melanosome transfer from melanocytes to keratinocytes, with clinical studies showing visible improvement at 5% concentration. Niacinamide also supports anti-aging and collagen synthesis by increasing NAD⁺ and NADPH levels and inhibiting matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), reducing wrinkle formation. It is anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, downregulating pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-6 and IL-8 and reducing oxidative stress, making it effective for acne, rosacea, and sensitive skin. Additionally, niacinamide improves hydration and skin texture by enhancing natural moisturizing factors (NMFs) and improving elasticity and smoothness, even at concentrations as low as 2%.

Anti-Aging Skin Barrier Repair

Dexpanthenol

Enhances skin barrier function by improving stratum corneum hydration and reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL), reinforcing the skin’s natural barrier. It accelerates wound healing by stimulating fibroblast proliferation and re-epithelialization, promoting faster recovery from abrasions, burns, and post-procedure skin trauma. Dexpanthenol also has anti-inflammatory action, reducing UV-induced erythema and calming irritation, making it ideal for post-sun exposure or inflammatory dermatoses. It soothes itching and irritation, mitigating pruritus and improving symptoms in conditions like atopic dermatitis, with a corticosteroid-sparing effect. It is generally safe and well-tolerated, including for long-term use in children and pregnant individuals, though rare allergic reactions have been reported.

Anti-Aging Dark Spot Formula for Hyperpigmentation

Dark spots and uneven skin tone are common concerns in anti-aging skincare. This formula is designed to fade hyperpigmentation and support a radiant, even complexion. As with all Agency treatments, your formula is personalized, and it may include ingredients such as:

Hydroquione for Anti-Aging Dark Spot Reduction

Hydroquinone

Hydroquinone is one of the gold-standard ingredients for targeting stubborn pigmentation. It works by competitively inhibiting tyrosinase, the key enzyme in melanin synthesis, effectively reducing the formation of excess pigment. This makes it highly effective for melasma, age spots, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Clinical evidence supports its efficacy: a 2023 randomized, double-blind study showed that 2% hydroquinone significantly reduced pigmentation over 12 weeks, with results comparable to 1% hexylresorcinol.

Hydroquinone is also well known for its role in triple-combination therapy (with a retinoid and corticosteroid), which enhances penetration, reduces irritation, and provides superior outcomes for resistant melasma. Long-term use under medical guidance can deliver impressive results, with studies showing that 70% of melasma patients experienced reduced pigmentation after three months of use, and up to 90% no longer felt the need to conceal discoloration after 12 weeks.

Kojic Acid for Brightening and Anti-Aging Support

Kojic Acid

Another effective skin-brightening ingredient, particularly known for targeting hyperpigmentation. It works by chelating copper at the active site of tyrosinase, disrupting melanin production. Beyond brightening, kojic acid provides antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits, helping calm irritation and protect the skin from oxidative damage. It is often paired with other actives like hydroquinone, glycolic acid, or arbutin to boost depigmenting effects while minimizing irritation. At safe concentrations of 1–2% in leave-on formulas, kojic acid has been clinically proven to fade dark spots and melasma safely and effectively, making it a trusted choice for brightening skincare routines.

Azelaic Acid for Anti-Aging Pigment Control

Azelaic Acid

Contributes to brightening by gently exfoliating and reducing excess pigment, helping to smooth and even out skin tone. It works as a tyrosinase inhibitor, which prevents overproduction of melanin while calming inflammation in the skin. This dual action makes it especially useful for people with both acne and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Unlike harsher exfoliants, azelaic acid resurfaces the skin without compromising the barrier, making it suitable for sensitive and rosacea-prone skin types. It is safe for long-term use, including during pregnancy, and works well in synergy with other brightening actives such as niacinamide or tranexamic acid.

Resveratrol for Antioxidant and Anti-Aging Protection

Resveratrol

A powerhouse antioxidant that delivers multiple anti-aging and brightening benefits. It neutralizes free radicals and prevents lipid peroxidation with efficacy that has been shown to surpass both vitamin E and vitamin C. Resveratrol supports skin elasticity and firmness by stimulating fibroblast activity and boosting collagen types I and III. It also protects the skin from UV-induced damage by regulating pathways like NF-κB, helping reduce inflammation and prevent photoaging. As a brightening agent, resveratrol inhibits tyrosinase and melanogenesis, making it effective in reducing dark spots and evening out skin tone. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties make it a helpful ingredient for those with acne-prone or sensitive skin.

Green Tea Extract for Anti-Aging and Skin Calming

Green Tea Extract (EGCG)

Specifically, its active compound EGCG, is rich in antioxidants that defend against oxidative stress — a key contributor to aging and hyperpigmentation. It provides photoprotection by reducing UV-induced DNA damage and supporting cellular repair pathways. Green tea also regulates sebum production, making it beneficial for oily and acne-prone skin, while inhibiting acne-causing bacteria. Its anti-inflammatory properties help calm redness and irritation, supporting conditions such as rosacea and eczema. Beyond protection, green tea extract has been shown in clinical studies to improve hydration, elasticity, and overall skin texture after consistent use over 4–8 weeks. This makes it a versatile ingredient for both skin brightening and anti-aging.

Ingredients subject to consultation

Anti-Aging Eye Formula for Wrinkles and Dark Circles

 The eye area is delicate and shows early signs of aging such as fine lines, puffiness, and dark circles. Depending on your needs, your personalized eye formula may include:

Anti-Aging Fine Line Smoothing

Tretinoin

Tretinoin is a retinoid widely regarded as one of the most effective ingredients for anti-aging. It stimulates cell turnover and collagen production, helping to smooth fine lines and improve skin texture. Under the eyes, tretinoin can gradually reduce the appearance of crow’s feet and brighten areas of uneven pigmentation. With consistent use, it helps thicken the delicate under-eye skin, making it more resilient while promoting a youthful, refreshed look.

Puffiness Reduction

Caffeine

A vasoconstrictor, which means it tightens blood vessels under the skin to reduce puffiness and dark circles — two of the most common under-eye concerns. Beyond its cosmetic benefits, caffeine provides photoprotection by enhancing UVB-induced apoptosis in damaged skin cells, which can help lower the risk of sun-related aging and damage. It also inhibits the ATR kinase pathway, supporting DNA repair. As an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, caffeine reduces oxidative stress and calms redness while boosting microcirculation. This not only helps with dark circles but also enhances skin radiance, collagen production, and elasticity.

Green Tea Extract for Anti-Aging and Brightening Eyes

Green Tea Extract (EGCG)

Provides potent antioxidant protection to the delicate under-eye area. It fights free radicals, shields the skin from UV damage, and supports DNA repair, helping to prevent premature aging. Green tea is also soothing and anti-inflammatory, making it excellent for calming puffiness and reducing redness. By regulating pigmentation, it helps minimize under-eye discoloration while also improving skin hydration and elasticity over time.

Hydration Support

Dexpanthenol

A derivative of vitamin B5, is a deeply hydrating and restorative ingredient for the under-eye area. It strengthens the skin barrier by reducing transepidermal water loss, which helps maintain long-lasting hydration. Dexpanthenol also promotes healing and calms irritation, making it especially useful for sensitive or stressed skin around the eyes. Its soothing properties relieve dryness, itching, and inflammation while supporting smoother, softer, and healthier-looking under-eye skin.

Moisture and Elasticity

Glycerin

Powerful humectant that draws water into the skin and locks it in, ensuring the delicate under-eye area stays hydrated. This boost in moisture plumps the skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Because it supports the skin’s natural barrier, glycerin also helps protect against environmental stressors and keeps the under-eye skin supple and resilient. Its lightweight, non-irritating nature makes it a perfect base ingredient in eye care formulations designed for daily use.

Carrots: Beta-Carotene for Youthful Skin

Rich in beta-carotene, carrots are converted by the body into vitamin A, which supports clear, vibrant skin and helps prevent dullness and fine lines.

Cucumbers: Hydration and Skin Elasticity

Cucumbers are ultra-hydrating and packed with silica, which supports skin elasticity and helps maintain a smooth, supple texture.

Broccoli: Vitamin-Rich Anti-Aging Support

Broccoli provides vitamins C and K, along with sulforaphane, a powerful compound that helps protect skin from UV damage while promoting overall skin resilience.

Garlic: Anti-Inflammatory Skin Ally

Garlic is naturally antibacterial and rich in allicin, helping reduce inflammation and supporting clearer, healthier skin.

Sweet Potatoes: Brightening Beta-Carotene

Sweet potatoes are another beta-carotene-rich vegetable that can help brighten dull skin and provide protection against UV-induced skin damage from within.

Red Bell Peppers: Vitamin C for Collagen and Radiance

Red bell peppers are one of the richest sources of vitamin C, a key nutrient for collagen production, skin vibrancy, and overall youthful appearance.

Kale: Circulation and Anti-Aging Benefits

Kale is packed with vitamin K, which supports healthy circulation and can help reduce dark circles and inflammation for refreshed-looking skin.