Radiance

A multitasking morning formula that targets pigmentation, loss of elasticity, and dryness simultaneously — combining prescription-grade actives with a powerful antioxidant and hyaluronic hydration base for visibly radiant, smooth, protected skin.

Overview

Radiance is a prescription-only, multi-active compounded cream designed for morning use. Rather than asking your skin to absorb multiple separate products, this formula delivers four synergistic actives in a single elegant application — each targeting a distinct mechanism of skin aging and dullness, and each enhancing the others' efficacy through complementary pathways.

Azelaic Acid refines texture and evens tone. Estriol restores hormonal firmness and plumpness. Vitamin C delivers brightening and antioxidant protection against UV-generated free radicals. Hyaluronic Acid anchors moisture at multiple skin depths. Together they form a coordinated morning regimen in one step — ideal for women seeking efficient, clinically-grounded skincare.

"A morning formula built for modern life — prescription-grade results without the complexity of a ten-step routine. One application, four mechanisms, all day protection."

Active Ingredients

Azelaic Acid

Dicarboxylic Acid · Tyrosinase Inhibitor

A naturally occurring dicarboxylic acid with a uniquely versatile mechanism, Azelaic Acid inhibits tyrosinase — the key enzyme in melanin synthesis — reducing hyperpigmentation, melasma, and post-inflammatory dark spots. It simultaneously normalizes keratinocyte turnover for smoother texture, and offers mild anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects, making it exceptionally well-tolerated in daytime formulations.

Estriol

Topical Estrogen · Dermally Active

The gentlest of the three endogenous estrogens, Estriol is particularly effective in topical formulations for restoring estrogen-depleted skin. It supports hyaluronic acid and collagen synthesis, improves epidermal thickness, and restores the plumpness, resilience, and moisture-retention capacity of hormonally aging skin — making it especially valuable for women in perimenopause and postmenopause.

Vitamin C

L-Ascorbic Acid · Antioxidant Defense

Vitamin C is one of the most studied topical antioxidants in dermatology. It neutralizes free radicals generated by UV exposure before they can damage collagen and DNA, brightens uneven tone by interfering with melanin synthesis, and is uniquely capable of regenerating oxidized Vitamin E back to its active form — extending the antioxidant effect throughout the day for sustained photoprotection alongside SPF.

Hyaluronic Acid

Sodium Hyaluronate · Multi-Depth Moisturizer

Hyaluronic Acid is the skin's most powerful endogenous humectant, capable of binding up to 1,000 times its weight in water. As a vehicle ingredient and active, it draws moisture from the environment and deeper dermis into the epidermis, plumping fine lines, improving skin texture, and anchoring the formula's active ingredients in a hydrated, receptive skin environment throughout the day.

Simple. Medical. Personalized.

Medical intake

Answer a few online questions about your health history, lifestyle, and goals — no clinic visits required.

Provider evaluation

A licensed medical professional reviews your intake and determines the safest, most effective option for you.

Personalized plan

Custom treatment plan built around your unique health needs, goals, medical history, and biology.

Ongoing support

Stay connected with your care team for follow-ups, adjustments, and expert answers — all online.

FAQs

Why is this formula specifically for daytime use?

Each ingredient in Radiance is optimized for daytime performance. Vitamin C is most effective when applied before UV exposure, as it scavenges free radicals generated by sunlight throughout the day. Azelaic Acid is photostable and well-suited to AM use. Estriol and Hyaluronic Acid provide hydration and firmness that support the skin through daily environmental stressors. Unlike retinoids — which are photosensitizing and reserved for nighttime — these actives are stable, effective, and protective when used in the morning.

Do I still need to use SPF if Vitamin C is an antioxidant?

Yes — absolutely. Vitamin C is an antioxidant, not a sunscreen. It neutralizes free radicals after UV exposure occurs, but it does not block UV rays from reaching the skin. It works synergistically with SPF — amplifying photoprotection — but cannot replace it. Azelaic Acid and Estriol also increase skin sensitivity to UV. SPF 30+ is non-negotiable when using this formula, and reapplication throughout the day is recommended for extended outdoor exposure.

How quickly will I see brightening and tone improvements?

Hydration improvements from Hyaluronic Acid are often visible within the first few days. Brightening effects from Vitamin C and Azelaic Acid typically become noticeable within 4–8 weeks of consistent daily use, as melanin production is gradually reduced and existing pigment fades. More significant improvements in skin texture, elasticity from Estriol, and overall radiance are typically observed at the 8–12 week mark. Results depend on baseline skin condition, sun protection habits, and adherence.

Can I use this alongside a nighttime retinoid or tretinoin formula?

Yes — Radiance is specifically designed to complement a nighttime retinoid or Tretinoin-based formula. They address aging through non-overlapping mechanisms: Radiance brightens, hydrates, and protects during the day; Tretinoin drives cellular renewal and collagen synthesis overnight. Many Strive patients use both as part of a complete, provider-supervised anti-aging protocol. Your provider will advise on the best combination for your skin profile.

Who is this formula best suited for?

Radiance is well-suited for adults — particularly women in perimenopause and postmenopause — who are experiencing uneven skin tone, hyperpigmentation, melasma, dullness, loss of firmness, or dryness. It is also appropriate for anyone seeking a streamlined, prescription-strength morning skincare routine without layering multiple separate products. A licensed provider will review your intake to confirm this formula is appropriate for your skin type, health history, and any concurrent medications.

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