Anti-Ageing Topical Treatment

This service is suitable for you if:

• You are aged 18 or older.
• You are located in the Republic of Ireland.
• You are seeking a prescription topical treatment for skin ageing — an anti-ageing retinoid and/or topical azelaic acid.
• You are not pregnant, breastfeeding or planning a pregnancy within the next six months (relevant to retinoids only).

This service is not suitable for you if:

• You are under 18 years of age.
• You are not located in the Republic of Ireland.
• You are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning a pregnancy in the next six months and wish to request a retinoid.
• You have a personal or family history of eczema and are requesting a retinoid.
• You have a history of skin cancer or precancerous skin lesions and are requesting a retinoid.
• You are seeking a prescription for oral retinoids (e.g. isotretinoin). This service provides topical prescription treatments only.
• You are seeking treatment on behalf of another person — prescriptions are issued to the account holder only.

Our anti-ageing topical prescribing service is quick and fully online. Simply complete the questionnaire, and one of our Irish-registered clinicians will review your submission and decide whether each requested treatment is appropriate for you.

STEP 1 – Online Questionnaire

Complete a short, secure online medical questionnaire. Tell us which treatment(s) you would like to request and answer some questions about your health, current medications, skin profile and medical history.

STEP 2 – Clinician Review

A registered Irish clinician reviews your questionnaire. If the clinician needs further information, they will contact you via your secure patient account.

STEP 3 – Collect from Pharmacy

If your medicines are approved, a prescription is sent to your nominated pharmacy via Healthmail for collection.

Topical retinoids are vitamin A derivatives and are among the most evidence-based topical treatments for skin ageing. They work by increasing cell turnover, stimulating collagen production, and improving the appearance of fine lines, uneven skin tone, and texture over time. Results typically become visible after 8–12 weeks of consistent use.

How to use your retinoid:

Apply a pea-sized amount to clean, dry skin on the face at night only.

Avoid the eye area, lips, corners of the mouth and nostrils.

Start by applying every two to three nights and build up gradually to nightly use as your skin adjusts. Initial skin irritation (dryness, flaking, redness) is common and usually settles within 4–6 weeks.

Always apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen every morning. Retinoids increase sensitivity to UV light — sun protection is essential.

Avoid using alongside benzoyl peroxide or abrasive/drying products unless advised by your clinician.

Do not use it if your skin is currently sunburned, irritated or broken.

Women who are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning a pregnancy should not use topical retinoids and should contact us immediately if this applies.

Side effects to be aware of:

The most common side effects are skin irritation, dryness, peeling and redness — particularly in the first few weeks. These are expected and usually improve as your skin adjusts.

Contact us if you experience severe irritation, a rash, or any signs of an allergic reaction.

Azelaic acid is a naturally occurring dicarboxylic acid with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and mild exfoliating properties. It is effective for improving uneven skin tone, dark spots (hyperpigmentation) and skin texture, and has a well-established safety profile for long-term use. It is suitable for a wide range of skin types including sensitive skin.

How to use your azelaic acid:

Apply a thin layer to clean skin on the affected area(s) of the face, morning and/or evening as directed.

Wash your hands before and after application.

Avoid contact with eyes. If contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.

You may experience mild tingling, burning or itching on first application — this usually settles with continued use.

Azelaic acid is compatible with sunscreen and can be used alongside a daily SPF — apply sunscreen on top.

If you have asthma, please be aware that in rare cases azelaic acid may affect breathing. Contact your clinician if you notice any change in your breathing.

Avoid application to broken or severely irritated skin.

Side effects to be aware of:

Common side effects include mild itching, burning, tingling or redness at the application site, particularly when starting treatment. These effects are usually mild and temporary.

Contact us if you experience severe skin irritation or any signs of an allergic reaction (swelling, difficulty breathing, widespread rash).