Future Formula

Important info about tretinoin
Some of our Future Formulas contain tretinoin. Here is some important information regarding tretinoin
—Do not wax - it’'s possible that the top layer of skin could be removed with the wax. This can leave hyperpigmentation that may take months to fade Try tweezing or threading instead.
—People who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to get pregnant should not use tretinoin. If any of these apply to you, please let your provider know so they can change your formula.

When can I expect to see results with the Future Formula? 

Everyone’s skin is unique and therefore, everyone experiences results on different timelines. Your results depend on a few things, like the ingredients in your Future Formula, it's prescription strength, and if you are wearing sun protection regularly (which you should!). You may see results after a few weeks or after many months of regular use (along with sun protection). That said, continued use of your Future Formula will also work against further skin damage and help “slow” the aging process. In other words, people will still develop signs of aging while using the Future Formula, but they are expected to be milder and to not occur as quickly as they would have without treatment.

What are the possible risks and side effects associated with the Future Formula?

For formulas with tretinoin, sun sensitivity may occur. Tretinoin can be degraded by UV light, and it can increase the skin's sensitivity to the sun. It is important to apply the formula at night and to apply sunscreen daily. Tretinoin may also cause flaking, peeling, and irritation, especially if you have dry or sensitive skin. Skin can also become more sensitive when tretinoin is used. Burning, stinging, or itching may occur initially as your skin adjusts to your formula. 

Dark Spot Formula

Important info about hydroquinone
Some of our Dark Spot Formulas contain hydroquinone. Here are some tips for how to use hydroquinone safely:
—Wear sunscreen every day - SPF 30 and up. Dark spots can worsen with sun exposure even with treatment, so it's important to apply sunscreen consistently.
—Apply formula directly to dark spots and patches. Use your fingertips for bigger areas, or a cotton swab if applying to just a few small dark spots.
—Avoid applying on eyelids and near mucous membranes (i.e., eyes, inside of nostrils, and mouth).
—People who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to get pregnant should not use hydroquinone. If any of these apply to you, please let your provider know.

When can I expect to see results with the Dark Spot Formula? 

It’s important to have realistic expectations when using the Dark Spot Formula! It usually takes 8-12 weeks of consistent treatment and strict sun protection to notice any lightening of dark spots. Keep in mind, this timeline varies from person to person.

If you don’t see any improvement in hyperpigmentation after several months of treatment, you can message your provider to talk about the possibility of trying new active ingredients in your personalized formula. If your dark spots are particularly stubborn, your provider may recommend consulting a local dermatologist to talk about alternative options.  

What are the possible risks and side effects associated with the Dark Spot Formula?  

Just like any other prescription medication, the Dark Spot Formula comes with possible risks, but you can help minimize them by following your provider’s instructions. Possible side effects include irritation, itching, rashes, or allergic reactions where the formula is applied.

It’s possible to unintentionally lighten the skin surrounding your dark spots when treating them with hydroquinone, creating a “halo spot.” It’s usually possible for the skin to return to normal but may take several months.  

When used long-term, there is a small risk that hydroquinone can lead to permanent blue/black darkening of the skin, so it’s important to follow your provider’s instructions and take breaks from your Dark Spot Formula as directed. Also, note that using a hydroquinone topical together with peroxide products (including but not limited to benzoyl peroxide and hydrogen peroxide) may stain your skin. This staining can usually be removed with soap and water.

If you notice halo spots forming, dark spots getting darker, or other discoloration, please stop using the formula and let your Agency provider know. 

It’s possible—although very rare—to see more serious side effects with long-term topical corticosteroid use, especially at higher strengths. These side effects include HPA axis suppression, Cushing syndrome, hyperglycemia, cataracts, glaucoma, and intracranial hypertension. As always, if you notice any unusual symptoms while using the Dark Spot Formula, please stop using it and reach out to your provider for guidance.

As a result of these possible side effects, we do require anyone requesting an additional shipment of the Dark Spot formula, to reach out to their provider first for approval.