I get asked a lot what skin product I use. Here’s a list of prescription-only drugs that I’ve tried thru my dermatologists. They all work wonder, and are cheaper than expensive name-brands. Well, of course they work better, and that’s why they’re not available over the counter.

WATCH OUT, sunscreen HAS TO BE USED and reapplied daily when using any of the products below. And they shouldn’t be used during the day. Otherwise you’ll end up with more brown spots or other sun damages. Also, do not store them in the bathroom (too warm and too moist).

Bleach brown spots / freckles

    Brand: Epiquin Micro 4% Cream
    Ingredient: HYDROQUINONE

Anti-aging: reducing fine lines and wrinkles, reducing roughness and improving coloration; treat acne

    Brand: Renova 0.02%
    Ingredient: TRETINOIN (Vitamin A derivative, or retinoic acid)

    Notes: Vitamin A family products work by increasing skin cell turnover rates. In other words, skin cells die faster, new cells are generated, and collagen is produced. Hence skin looks younger and firmer, skin-tone is more even, and all that good stuff.

Treat acne problems

    Brand: Differin
    Ingredient: ADAPALENE
    Notes: Differin has gel and cream types. For my skin, gel is too harsh and drying, so I opt for cream.

Treat acne and psoriasis, anti-aging

    Brand: Tazorac
    Ingredient: TAZAROTENE (Vitamin A derivative)

    Notes: Tazorac is very similar to Renova. Both are Vit. A derivatives, and work by increasing skin cell turnover rates. See notes above for Renova. Tazorac causes more irritation than Renova, and cannot be used by pregnant women. My personal preference is Renova, because of irritation problems.