u/MidnightSnacki

I’m 47 with dry, sensitive, redness-prone skin and my main concerns are:
- loss of elasticity/firmness
- fine lines/crow’s feet
- dehydration/crepey texture
- redness/inflammation
- maintaining barrier health while still targeting aging

I’m trying to build more of a “collagen support + barrier preservation” routine instead of constantly over-exfoliating my skin. I also do procedures (Botox/IPL/Vbeam/microneedling/etc.) so I’m trying to avoid chronic irritation.

These are my current actives and what I’m using them for:

• Tretinoin 0.025%
Main anti-aging/collagen product for wrinkles, texture, elasticity.

• Shani Darden Retinol Reform
Using more as a “glow/texture” retinoid on non-tret nights because my dry sensitive skin tolerates it better than increasing tret frequency.

• SkinMedica TNS Advanced+
Growth factors for firmness, elasticity, skin density, mature skin support.

• Skinbetter Alto Advanced
Antioxidant support for redness, inflammation, environmental damage, collagen preservation.

• Azelaic Acid 15%
For redness, inflammation, pigmentation, texture, and overall calming.

• Medik8 Liquid Peptides
Supportive peptide/copper peptide serum for hydration + fine lines + barrier-friendly anti-aging.

• EADEM Cashmere Peel
Gentle exfoliation 1–2x weekly for glow/texture without harsh acids.

• Omnilux LED
Redness + collagen support + healing/recovery.

For hydration/barrier support I mainly use:
- Dieux Instant Angel
- Experiment Super Saturated
- TIRTIR Milk Skin Toner

I’ve realized my skin does MUCH better with:
- recovery nights
- less exfoliation
- separated actives
- hydration-focused anti-aging

rather than stacking aggressive acids constantly.

Does this seem like a balanced active lineup for dry sensitive mature skin? Any obvious overlap or categories I’m missing? I’m specifically trying to improve elasticity and aging without pushing my barrier into chronic irritation. I realize I was doing wayyyyy too much and breaking my skin barrier while increasing inflammation.