Resurfacing with topical agents.

Evaluation of the aging face reveals many changes such as lentigines, coarseness, senile purpura, and fine lines that can be blamed primarily on photoaging. There are many topical preparations that are now being used or are under investigation for facial rejuvenation. These include retinold creams, alpha-hydroxy acids, Ethocyn (Chantal Skin Care Corp, Los Angeles, CA), topical vitamins, and topical hormonal treatments. There has been substantial media attention devoted to these "antiaging" cures but there is a lack of scientific evidence to support some of these claims. After review of these agents, a practical approach to the patient requesting younger-looking skin is presented.