Aging Skin: Choosing Treatments in a Hype‑Heavy Space

Anti‑aging products are everywhere — from retinol serums and glycolic acid peels to bee venom creams and hormone‑based supplements. But what actually works, and how should clinicians counsel patients when the evidence is mixed or limited?In this episode, NatMed editors Jeff Langford, PharmD, BCPS, BCCP; Andrea Stafford, PharmD; and Kelly Daniels break down the evidence behind common aging‑skin ingredients and discuss how pharmacists can help patients set realistic expectations while navigating a hype‑heavy space at the point of care.Questions we answer in this episode:What aging‑skin treatments have evidence to support their use — and which ones deserve more skepticism?How do topical vitamin A (retinoids) and glycolic acid compare in terms of effectiveness, tolerability, and safety?How should clinicians interpret “insufficient evidence,” and how can that nuance be communicated clearly to patients?We also cover:How study design, formulation, and safety considerations (including cancer risk with DHEA) affect how clinicians interpret aging‑skin evidence.Why trendy ingredients like bee venom may sound compelling but lack strong clinical support.Practical counseling tips pharmacists can use when patients ask, “What should I try first?”🏷️ Our listeners can get 10% off a new or upgraded subscription with code natmed1026 at checkout. ******NatMed / TRC Healthcare Editor Hosts: Jeff Langford PharmD, BCPS, BCCP (Managing Clinical Editor)Andrea Stafford, PharmD (Assistant Editor)Kelly Daniels, BA (News Editor & Associate Content Manager)******CE Information:This podcast is sourced from the NatMed March 2026 Newsletter. To claim CE credit, subscribers should read the newsletter and click “Take the CE Quiz” link to take the quiz. Claim Credit******The clinical resources mentioned during the podcast are part of a subscription to NatMed: 🌱 NatMed Pro💊 TRC HealthcareNewsletterInfographicMonograph: Vitamin AMonograph: Glycolic AcidMonograph: DHEAMonograph: Bee Venom******Don’t miss out! Subscribe today to stay ahead with trusted, practical insights and tools. ******Send us Fan MailEmail us: [email protected] The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.Natural Medicines: Evidence in Practice is a production of TRC Healthcare.