By Sarah Shaw, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC
Nurse Practitioner, Elevate Health
When it comes to skincare, not all products are created equal. While some over-the-counter (OTC) options may offer minor improvements, medical-grade and prescription skincare are designed to treat and protect your skin on a deeper level. At Elevate Health, we emphasize medical-grade treatments that deliver science-backed results.
Let’s take a look at some of the most powerful prescription skincare ingredients and why they should be a part of your routine.
Tretinoin: The Gold Standard for Skin Renewal
Tretinoin, a prescription-strength retinoid, is one of the most researched and effective skincare ingredients. Unlike OTC retinol, tretinoin works at a cellular level to:
✔ Increase cell turnover, reducing fine lines and wrinkles
✔ Treat acne and prevent breakouts
✔ Fade dark spots and hyperpigmentation
✔ Boost collagen production for firmer skin
This vitamin A derivative accelerates skin renewal, revealing a smoother, brighter complexion over time. Though it may cause initial irritation, proper use under medical guidance leads to long-term skin transformation. It is important to note, tretinoin is not safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Prescription-Grade Ascorbic Acid: The Most Potent Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a skincare essential, but not all forms are created equal. L-ascorbic acid (the most bioavailable form) is often degraded in OTC products as it is prone to oxidation. A prescription-grade formulation ensures:
✔ Potent antioxidant protection against free radical damage
✔ Brighter, more even skin tone
✔ Collagen synthesis for firmer, youthful skin
✔ Enhanced sun protection when combined with SPF
Using prescription-strength vitamin C improves skin texture, radiance, and resilience—making it a must-have for anti-aging and skin health.
Topical Estriol: Hormonal Support for Aging Skin
As we age, hormone levels decline, leading to thinner, drier, and less elastic skin. Topical estriol, a bioidentical estrogen, offers powerful anti-aging benefits, including:
✔ Increased skin hydration and elasticity
✔ Reduction in fine lines and wrinkles
✔ Improved skin barrier function
✔ Rejuvenation of thinning skin, especially during menopause
For women experiencing hormonal aging, topical estriol provides a safe, non-invasive solution to improve skin vitality.
NAD+: The Ultimate Cellular Repair Molecule
Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) is a coenzyme that plays a crucial role in cellular energy and repair. As we age, NAD+ levels decline, contributing to skin aging and decreased resilience. Topical NAD+ can:
✔ Boost cellular regeneration for improved skin function
✔ Enhance DNA repair to reverse signs of aging
✔ Improve hydration and reduce inflammation
✔ Promote skin brightness and an even tone
By restoring NAD+ levels, we can support the skin’s natural healing process and combat environmental damage. Elevate Health offers prescription NAD+ as a topical cream, subcutaneous injection, or intravenous (IV) infusion.
Hydroquinone: The Gold Standard for Hyperpigmentation
If you struggle with melasma, sun spots, or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, hydroquinone is the most effective solution. This prescription skin-lightening agent works by:
✔ Inhibiting melanin production to fade dark spots
✔ Correcting uneven skin tone
✔ Enhancing the effectiveness of other brightening agents
Unlike OTC lightening products, prescription-strength hydroquinone delivers visible results faster and more effectively when used under medical supervision. It is important to note, hydroquinone is not safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Why Choose Prescription Skincare?
While drugstore products may seem convenient, prescription skincare is clinically proven to deliver superior results. At Elevate Health, we provide:
✅ Medical-grade ingredients backed by science
✅ Customized treatment plans for your unique skin concerns
✅ Expert guidance to maximize results and minimize irritation
✅ Long-term skin health solutions
Investing in prescription skincare means investing in your skin’s future. Whether you want to slow aging, improve texture, or treat stubborn skin issues, our experience healthcare providers at Elevate Health are here to help.
Ready to Elevate Your Skincare Routine?
Schedule a consultation with our board-certified nurse practitioner at Elevate Health and let us help you create a personalized skincare plan designed just for you.
📲 Call or text (775) 430-1207 Follow us on Instagram:@elevate_health_nv
Your skin deserves the best—let’s make it happen!
Disclaimer
The information provided on this blog is for general informational and educational purposes only and does constitute medical advice. Content from this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, treatment, or guidance from a qualified healthcare provider. Always consult a licensed medical professional before making any decisions regarding your health, including starting or stopping any treatments, supplements, or lifestyle changes.
