

Need help with ARAZLO
For reference I am a 45 year-old female who has used tretinoin on and off for years and used to use all sorts of acids because I had very resilient skin until I had kids in my late 30s, and my skin literally became insanely sensitive and reactive to everything. I used ALTRENO for a few years and while there was somewhat less irritation, I can't say I noticed anything mind blowing (although I know retinoids are a journey) My derm switched me to ARAZLO about a year ago (every other night) and while it does seem less irritating, I can't say I'm blown away with the results but I can definitely attest to the permanent dryness that I seem to have on my cheeks in particular. I feel like my skin never feels truly soft, smooth or supple. I def still see sun damage and cheek redness/capillaries but then again, I'll confess that I don't always wear sunscreen every single time I leave the house. I also feel like my skin has that "orange peel" look. ChatGPT (i know, dont judge me lol) says that its bc my skin barrier is damaged but I can't seem to repair it because every cream containing any sort of ceramides, fatty acids, etc. breaks me out. I even tried timeless hyaluronic acid and that broke me out. I was putting a thin layer of Vaseline on top of my moisturizer but was told thats too occlusive so i switched to Squalane. My skincare routine is pretty straightforward (as instructed by my derm)...
Morning
Neutrogena Hydroboost cleansing gel
AnteAge growth factor serum
Mist face with water
Honest beauty hydrogel cream mixes with a dot of glycerin
Drmtlgy physical spf 46 tinted
Night
DHC cleansing oil
Neutrogena Hydroboost cleansing gel
ARAZLO (every other night)
Paula's choice BHA 2% (every so often on a non-ARAZLO night)
Honest Hydrogel cream w/ dot of glycerin
*I also shave my face in a downward direction about once a week with a simple 3-blade disposable gilette razor
*I also recently got the CurrentBody Series 2 red light mask from the company's website but made the mistake of using it for the full 10 min the first time in the morning and used ARAZLO that night and holy heck, my face was suuuuper red and dry for days after so ive been afraid to try it again.
Ps- I've also tried a number of Asian essences/serums such as COSRX snail mucin, Anua Heartleaf 77%, RNW Der Renew Facial Treatment, Skinfood Royal Honey Propolis, and PYUNKANG YUL Facial Essence. I cant say I really saw a difference using them so i stopped but maybe I should revisit them?!
I guess what I'm wondering from those who successfully use Arazlo and are able to maintain a good skin barrier and achieve smooth skin with noticeable anti-aging benefits are which products do you use and how do you use/space them? (Including LED masks and microneedling)
Thank you in advance!!!!