Custom Daily Dose
Custom Daily Dose
Product Description
Product overview
Skin + Me Custom Daily Dose is a prescription-strength, dermatologist-formulated bespoke night treatment from the UK's leading personalised skincare service. Each Daily Doser is uniquely blended with a tailored mix of clinical actives — including tretinoin, clindamycin, azelaic acid, niacinamide, metronidazole, hydroquinone or hydrocortisone — to target your specific concerns: acne, hyperpigmentation, fine lines, rosacea and uneven skin texture. Delivered monthly in an infinitely-recyclable aluminium twist + click doser that delivers the perfect single dose every time.
Bespoke Formulation
Up to 7 prescription actives blended in a unique-to-you concentration after dermatology team review.
Texture & feel
SENSORYBespoke Formulation
Up to 7 prescription actives blended in a unique-to-you concentration after dermatology team review.
Tretinoin 0.024%
Pure retinoic acid — 20× stronger than over-the-counter retinol — for accelerated cell turnover.
Twist + Click Dosing
Patented aluminium doser delivers the exact single dose needed — no waste, no guesswork.
Ongoing Clinical Care
Your prescriber tracks your progress and adjusts your formula every three months as your skin evolves.
Sustainable Packaging
Infinitely recyclable aluminium tube, letterbox-friendly delivery, minimal outer packaging.
Vegan & Cruelty-Free
Approved under the Cruelty Free International Leaping Bunny programme. No animal-derived ingredients.
Safety & compatibility
SAFETretinoin and hydroquinone are contraindicated during pregnancy and nursing. Discontinue if planning to conceive, pregnant or breastfeeding.
The base cream contains C13-14 isoparaffin and caprylic/capric triglyceride — generally considered low-risk for malassezia.
Tretinoin makes skin more vulnerable to UV. Daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+ is essential during and after treatment.
Expect dryness, mild flaking, redness or temporary breakouts during weeks 2–4 as cell turnover accelerates.
Do not combine with retinol, AHA, BHA, benzoyl peroxide or vitamin C overnight — risk of severe irritation.
Apply a small amount behind the ear for 24 hours before first full-face use, especially if reactive or sensitive.
Tretinoin and azelaic acid combined can occasionally trigger flare-ups. Your prescriber will adjust formulation if needed.
Available only via online consultation reviewed by GMC-registered dermatology team. Not available off-the-shelf.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSTretinoin 0.024%Proven
The gold-standard prescription retinoid — pure retinoic acid that binds directly to skin receptors, no conversion required. Roughly 20 times more potent than over-the-counter retinol, used for acne, photo-ageing, hyperpigmentation and texture refinement.
- JAAD (1986): Tretinoin demonstrated significant reduction in fine wrinkles and lentigines after 24 weeks of nightly use.
- British Journal of Dermatology: Topical tretinoin is FDA-approved for acne vulgaris and reduces comedonal lesions by ~40-60% over 12 weeks.
- Mechanism: Accelerates keratinocyte turnover, prevents follicular plugging, stimulates collagen synthesis.
Clindamycin Phosphate 1%Proven
A topical lincosamide antibiotic that targetsCutibacterium acnes (formerlyP. acnes) — the main bacterium driving inflammatory acne. Reduces papules and pustules without systemic absorption.
- Cochrane Review (2020): Topical clindamycin combined with retinoids significantly outperforms retinoid alone for inflammatory acne lesions.
- NICE Guidelines: Recommended as first-line antibiotic option for moderate inflammatory acne when paired with non-antibiotic actives.
Azelaic Acid 4%Proven
A naturally-occurring dicarboxylic acid derived from grains. Multi-tasker: antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, gently exfoliating and pigmentation-correcting. Considered safe for sensitive, rosacea-prone and pregnant skin (when used alone).
- JEADV (2014): Azelaic acid 15% gel matched metronidazole for papulopustular rosacea and outperformed it on erythema reduction.
- Indian J Dermatol (2011): Tyrosinase inhibition makes it effective on post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and melasma.
- Bonus: Does not cause photosensitivity, unlike AHAs.
Niacinamide 4%Proven
Vitamin B3 — a barrier-strengthening, sebum-regulating, redness-soothing all-rounder. Buffers the irritation potential of tretinoin and azelaic acid while improving overall skin tone.
- JCD (2004): Topical niacinamide 4% reduced papular and pustular acne with efficacy comparable to clindamycin 1%.
- Int J Cosmet Sci: Boosts ceramide synthesis, improving transepidermal water loss and barrier resilience.
Metronidazole 0.75%Proven
Anti-inflammatory and antiprotozoal active — the cornerstone topical for papulopustular rosacea. Reduces redness, bumps and Demodex mite populations linked to rosacea flares.
- Cochrane Database (2015): Topical metronidazole significantly improves rosacea severity versus placebo over 8–12 weeks.
- BAD Guidelines: Listed as first-line topical therapy for mild-to-moderate rosacea in UK clinical practice.
Hydroquinone 2-4%Proven
The clinical gold standard for melanin suppression. Inhibits tyrosinase to lighten melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and stubborn dark spots. Prescription-only in the UK.
- JAAD (2006): Hydroquinone 4% remains the most effective single agent for melasma versus alternative depigmenting actives.
- Mechanism: Reversibly inhibits melanocyte tyrosinase, blocking melanin production at its source.
Hydrocortisone 0.5-1%Proven
A mild topical corticosteroid prescribed short-term to dampen acute inflammation, redness and reactivity — particularly useful for buffering retinoid initiation in sensitive skin.
- BNF Classification: Class I (mildest) corticosteroid suitable for facial use under prescriber supervision.
- Clinical Use: Reduces tretinoin-induced redness and flaking during the adaptation phase.
14 ingredients (typical formulation)
Tretinoin 0.024%, Clindamycin Phosphate, Azelaic Acid 4%, Niacinamide 4%, Metronidazole, Hydroquinone, Hydrocortisone, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, C13-14 Isoparaffin, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Water (Aqua), Laureth-7, Maltodextrin, Phenoxyethanol, Polyacrylamide, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Triethylene Glycol.
Note: Each Daily Doser is uniquely prescribed — your individual formula will list two to three active ingredients selected by your dermatology clinician based on your consultation.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply to clean, completely dry skin. Wait 10 minutes before and after to reduce irritation. Use evenings only — finish your AM routine with a broad-spectrum SPF 30+.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Dry Thoroughly
Use a gentle, non-stripping cleanser. Pat skin completely dry — applying to damp skin increases tretinoin penetration and irritation.
Wait 10 Minutes
Allow your skin barrier to settle and ensure all moisture has evaporated before applying the Daily Doser.
Twist Until It Clicks
Twist the base of the doser until you hear a click — this dispenses your exact 28-day calibrated dose. No more, no less.
Apply & Spread Evenly
Dot across forehead, cheeks, chin and nose. Spread in upward motions, avoiding immediate eye area, lips and corners of the nose.
Wait 10 Minutes, Then Moisturise
Allow the active ingredients to absorb fully, then layer a fragrance-free moisturiser on top to support your barrier.
Build Frequency Slowly
Start every third night for 1–2 weeks. Increase to every other night, then nightly as tolerated. Don't rush — slow wins here.
Daily SPF Is Non-Negotiable
Tretinoin and hydroquinone increase photo-sensitivity dramatically. Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ every morning, even indoors.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You struggle with persistent inflammatory acne or hormonal breakouts
- You have post-acne marks, melasma or stubborn hyperpigmentation
- You want clinical-grade actives without seeing a private dermatologist
- OTC retinol and salicylic acid haven't moved the needle for you
- You want fine line and texture improvement alongside acne control
- You value convenience — letterbox delivery, no clinic visits
- You're committed to nightly use plus daily SPF for at least 12 weeks
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant, breastfeeding or trying to conceive
- You have very reactive skin or active eczema/perioral dermatitis
- You can't commit to daily sunscreen use
- You want immediate results — this needs 8–12 weeks minimum
- You don't want a subscription model
- You have severe nodulocystic acne that needs systemic treatment
- You can't tolerate any dryness, flaking or initial purging
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESTretinoin reduces sebum output over time. Lightweight base won't add greasiness or congestion.
Effective but expect transient dryness during weeks 2–6. Pair with a rich, ceramide-rich moisturiser.
Balances oil in the T-zone while improving texture across drier cheek areas. Ideal candidate skin type.
The dermatology team can adjust strength and add hydrocortisone to buffer reactivity. Build slowly.
Non-comedogenic, fungal-acne safe formula targeting the root causes of acne with three proven actives.
Tretinoin is the most evidence-backed anti-ageing molecule available. Smoothes lines and evens tone.
A metronidazole and azelaic acid focused formula is ideal. Avoid combinations heavy on tretinoin.
Hydroquinone, azelaic acid and tretinoin together form the Kligman triple — the gold-standard for melasma.
Results timeline
6+ MONTHSAdjustment Phase Begins
Skin starts adapting to clinical actives. Most users notice mild dryness, slight tingling and tighter-feeling skin. No visible change yet.
~85% experience tightnessPurge & Cell Turnover
Possible temporary breakout as buried congestion surfaces. Some flaking and redness — this is the retinisation phase, not failure. Stay the course.
~40% experience purgingVisible Clearing
Inflammatory spots reduce noticeably. Skin texture starts to feel smoother. Pores look more refined. Initial dryness subsides.
~75% notice clearer skinSignificant Transformation
Most users describe their skin as "the best it's been in years" — fewer breakouts, softened pigmentation, brighter tone, less reactive. Confidence soars.
~88% see clear improvementHyperpigmentation Fades
Stubborn melasma, post-acne marks and sun damage measurably lighten. Fine lines around eyes and mouth begin to soften with continued tretinoin use.
~70% see PIH fadingMaintenance & Anti-Ageing Gains
Full collagen-stimulating benefits emerge. Skin looks younger, more luminous and more resilient. Many users continue indefinitely as a long-term anti-ageing investment.
~92% remain subscribersRatings by platform
21K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Genuinely effective on inflammatory acne and post-acne marks
- Clinical actives normally only available via private dermatologist
- Smart twist + click doser eliminates over-application
- Recyclable aluminium tube — environmentally responsible
- Letterbox-friendly delivery; no clinic visits required
- Easy cancellation and pause functionality
- Vegan, cruelty-free, fragrance-free formulation
- Quick prescriber response for ingredient adjustments
- Works for both acne and ageing concerns simultaneously
Criticized
- £24.99/month — pricier than buying individual generics
- Initial purge can be disheartening for 2-4 weeks
- Tretinoin caps at 0.05% (lower than some competitors)
- Requires daily SPF commitment (extra cost)
- Not pregnancy or breastfeeding compatible
- Dryness, flaking and irritation are common side effects
- Subscription auto-renews — easy to forget to pause
- Some users report templated rather than truly bespoke responses
- Cannot be combined with other actives like vitamin C overnight
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESClosest UK alternative — also prescription, also personalised, but offers higher tretinoin strengths up to 0.1%. Slightly cheaper, but 12.5ml monthly tube versus Skin + Me's 28-day doser. Less elegant packaging.
DIY two-product OTC stack. Retinol is gentler than tretinoin (around 20× weaker), so results take longer, but no prescription, no purge risk and pregnancy-safer alternatives exist.
Stack two affordable products to mimic the retinoid + azelaic combination. No clindamycin or hydroquinone access. Best for users with mild concerns who want a low-commitment trial run.
OTC third-generation retinoid (UK pharmacy). Targets acne effectively but lacks pigmentation, anti-bacterial and anti-ageing breadth of the Skin + Me bespoke formulation.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDECurology Custom Formula
Klira Bespoke Skincare
Storage & shelf life
3 MONTHS3 months after first use — the doser is calibrated for a 28-day supply, so a fresh tube arrives monthly.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Tretinoin is photo-degradable — keep tube cap on.
Infinitely recyclable aluminium tube with patented twist + click dosing mechanism. Letterbox-friendly outer.
Yes — under 100ml, hand-luggage compliant. Sleek tube fits any toiletry bag without leaking.
Frequently asked questions
FAQNo. The Daily Doser typically contains tretinoin and may contain hydroquinone — both contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Tretinoin is a Category D retinoid associated with retinoid embryopathy, and hydroquinone is absorbed systemically. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to conceive, you should pause your subscription immediately and inform your prescriber. Pregnancy-safe alternatives include azelaic acid 10-20% and niacinamide products.
Generally yes. The base cream uses C13-14 isoparaffin, caprylic/capric triglyceride, water, aloe and phenoxyethanol — none of which are known to feed malassezia. The active ingredients (tretinoin, azelaic acid, niacinamide, clindamycin) are themselves either neutral or actively beneficial for fungal acne. That said, individual responses vary; if you suspect fungal acne, consult your prescriber to confirm formulation suitability.
Not in the same routine. Stop using retinol, AHA (glycolic, lactic), BHA (salicylic acid), benzoyl peroxide and overnight vitamin C while on the Daily Doser — combining can severely irritate your barrier and worsen results. You can use vitamin C in the morning if your skin is well-adapted, but the brand recommends a stripped-back routine: gentle cleanser, Daily Doser, fragrance-free moisturiser, and morning SPF.
Because it's bespoke, the Daily Doser works across nearly all skin types — but the strongest fits are oily, combination, acne-prone, hyperpigmented and mature/anti-ageing skin. Sensitive and dry skin can use it but require slower introduction (every third night for 1-2 weeks) and a richer moisturiser. Rosacea-prone skin should request a metronidazole or azelaic-led formula and avoid heavy tretinoin. Active eczema or perioral dermatitis sufferers should avoid until symptoms resolve.
Visible improvements typically appear at 4-8 weeks, with significant transformation by 8-12 weeks. The first 2-4 weeks are an adjustment phase — expect dryness, mild flaking and possible purging as cell turnover accelerates. Hyperpigmentation takes 3-6 months to fade meaningfully, and full collagen-stimulating anti-ageing benefits emerge after 6+ months of consistent nightly use. Patience and daily SPF are the two non-negotiables.
Evening only, after cleansing. The order is: gentle cleanser → pat skin completely dry → wait 10 minutes → apply Daily Doser → wait another 10 minutes → finish with a fragrance-free moisturiser. In the morning, simply cleanse and apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ (non-negotiable). Skip toners, exfoliants, retinol and overnight vitamin C while on the Daily Doser. Less truly is more with prescription actives.
No — it has a very low comedogenic rating (approximately 1/5). The base cream is designed to be non-comedogenic and the active ingredients (tretinoin, clindamycin, azelaic acid, niacinamide) actively unclog pores rather than clogging them. Tretinoin specifically reduces follicular plugging by accelerating keratinocyte turnover, making it one of the most effective anti-comedonal actives in dermatology. Initial breakouts during weeks 2-4 are purging, not new clogging.
Each Daily Doser is calibrated to last exactly 28 days when used nightly — the twist + click mechanism dispenses a precise single dose, and a built-in countdown shows days remaining. A new tube arrives monthly via your subscription. Once opened, use within 3 months for optimal active stability — tretinoin and azelaic acid degrade with prolonged exposure to air and light, so the monthly delivery model ensures peak potency.
Verdict: Skin + Me Custom Daily Dose is one of the UK's most accessible routes to genuinely prescription-strength skincare without a private dermatology bill. The bespoke combination of tretinoin, clindamycin, azelaic acid, niacinamide, metronidazole, hydroquinone and hydrocortisone — selected from up to 7 clinical actives — addresses everything from inflammatory acne and melasma to fine lines and rosacea. The twist + click aluminium doser is genuinely thoughtful design, and ongoing prescriber support means your formula evolves with your skin. Expect a 2-4 week purge phase, and budget for a daily SPF — these aren't optional extras with this formula. Best suited to users committed to a stripped-back nightly routine for at least 12 weeks. Not for pregnancy, breastfeeding or those who can't commit to sun protection. For everyone else, it's a clinically credible, sustainably-packaged investment in your skin.
Product Overview
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Tretinoin
Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 0 |
Clindamycin Phosphate
|
|
|
| 1 |
Azelaic Acid
Masking, Fragrance, Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Buffering
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Niacinamide
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning, Smoothing
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
Pores
|
|
| 0 |
Metronidazole
|
|







