How do you layer actives, including prescription ones?

Advice Request

Hello, I'm 45 and thanks to this sub I have narrowed and simplified my skincare routine to just a few, high-quality actives, and it's made my skin and routine better! I'm now past the early, flaky phase of rx retinol and would like to increase the usage, and I'm just a bit confused about how to combine everything. This is what I have so far:

AM:

- Regimen Vitamin X (Vitamin C Serum)

- Finacea (prescription Azelaic Acid)

- Neocutis Firm Riche Eye Cream

- SPF

PM:

- Tazarotene (retinol prescription)

- Finacea again?

- Growth Factor/Peptide serum (any recs?)

- a rich moisturizer like LRP Cicaplast

I'm trying Finacea twice a day because redness is a big concern and I think my skin can tolerate it, but should I not be mixing it with the Taz?

Thanks in advance for any insights/advice or recommendations!

Posted May 12, 2026, 3:00 PM UTC

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