Skincare FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about prescription skincare in the UK, including tretinoin, azelaic acid, and tranexamic acid. If you are not sure where to start, use the skincare hub to choose the right option.
Consultation and supply
Do I need a prescription for tretinoin in the UK?
Yes. Tretinoin is a prescription only medicine in the UK. A prescriber must assess suitability and issue a valid prescription before supply.
How does online supply work?
You complete an online consultation. A prescriber reviews your information and confirms suitability. If approved, the treatment is supplied for UK delivery.
Can I buy these treatments without a consultation?
No. Root and Radiance uses a consultation led pathway so a prescriber can assess suitability, check contraindications, and advise on safe use.
How do I choose between tretinoin, azelaic acid, and tranexamic acid?
Use the skincare hub. As a quick guide: acne and anti-ageing usually points to tretinoin, sensitive skin and redness often suits azelaic acid, and pigmentation or melasma is commonly treated with tranexamic acid.
Tretinoin
What is tretinoin and what does it do?
Tretinoin is retinoic acid, a prescription strength retinoid used for acne, texture, and visible skin renewal. It increases cell turnover and helps unclog pores.
How do I start tretinoin to reduce irritation?
Start low, use a small amount, and apply on alternate nights at first. Increase frequency gradually as your skin adapts. Moisturiser can help reduce dryness.
Is purging normal with tretinoin?
Some people experience a temporary flare in breakouts early on as clogged pores clear. If irritation is severe or worsening, reduce frequency and follow prescriber advice.
Can I use tretinoin during pregnancy or while trying to conceive?
Tretinoin is not recommended in pregnancy. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to conceive, disclose this in your consultation so a prescriber can advise safely.
Do I need SPF when using tretinoin?
Yes. Daily SPF is strongly recommended. Retinoids can increase sensitivity and SPF supports both comfort and results.
Azelaic acid
What is azelaic acid used for?
Azelaic acid is commonly used for redness, rosacea-prone skin, acne, and post-acne marks. It can be a good option if you want results with a lower irritation risk.
Is azelaic acid good for rosacea?
Azelaic acid is widely used for rosacea-prone skin and redness because it can help calm inflammation while supporting clearer pores.
Can azelaic acid help acne scars or marks?
It can help fade post-inflammatory marks over time, particularly when paired with daily SPF and consistent use.
Can I use azelaic acid with tretinoin?
Many people use both, often at different times of day. Introduce one change at a time and follow prescriber advice, especially if your skin is sensitive.
Tranexamic acid
What is tranexamic acid used for in skincare?
Topical tranexamic acid is commonly used for pigmentation concerns such as melasma, hormonal pigmentation, and post-acne dark marks.
How long does tranexamic acid take to work?
Pigmentation improves gradually. Many people assess progress over 8 to 12 weeks of consistent use, alongside daily SPF.
Is tranexamic acid better than azelaic acid for pigmentation?
It depends on the cause of pigmentation and your skin sensitivity. Tranexamic acid is often chosen for melasma and hormonal pigmentation, while azelaic acid can suit redness plus marks.
Do I need SPF with tranexamic acid?
Yes. Daily SPF is strongly recommended. Pigmentation treatment without SPF is usually disappointing.
Routine and safety
Can I use vitamin C with these treatments?
Many people can. If your skin is sensitive, introduce one active at a time and avoid starting multiple new products together. A prescriber can advise based on your history.
What if my skin becomes irritated?
Reduce frequency, use moisturiser, and simplify your routine. If irritation is significant, pause and follow prescriber advice.
Do you supply discreet delivery?
Orders are supplied for UK delivery. Packaging and dispatch details can vary, but patient privacy is a priority.
