Curology is a unique prescription skincare subscription service that pairs you with a licensed dermatologist and sends you prescription medication every three months.
The licensed healthcare providers are based in San Diego, and the list of states Curology is licensed in is here. Curology medication is targeted toward acne and anti-aging. Not only do you receive prescription medication tailored to your skincare needs, but you also get one-on-one access to your medical provider. Prescription bottles are shipped every 90 days (three months). However, if you run out early or need it sooner, you simply request an earlier next shipment in your account.
Starting October 31st, all new patients can get a free trial month. There will be a $4.95 shipping & handling fee for new trials but it is 100% refundable under Curology's 90-day money back guarantee. After that, shipping is free.
I've had Curology for over half a year, so it's time to check on my skin's progress.
My Subscription Addiction paid for this subscription. (Check out the review process post to learn more about how we review boxes.)
The Subscription Box: Curology
The Cost: $19.95 per month + free shipping (prescription medication ships once every three months but you can request to receive it earlier at no additional cost)
ACTIVE DEAL: Get your first box free! No coupon needed - just use this link.
The Products: Acne or Anti-aging prescription medication cream sent every three months + access to your dermatologist at all times
Ships to: Curology providers are licensed in the following US states listed here.
Check out all of our Curology reviews and the Beauty Subscription Box Directory!
Keep Track of Your Subscriptions: Add Curology to your subscription list or wishlist!
Upon signing up for Curology you'll be asked to fill out a questionnaire about your skin and skincare needs. Next, upload photos of your bare face so your provider can assess the skin and determine the appropriate medications.
Curology uses multiple active ingredients, but each person gets a combination of three. This combo is determined by your provider. You can change your formulation if you ask about it.
Each shipment comes with a little fold-out card containing some useful instructions.
The prescription medication arrives in the mail once every three months. Like I stated above, you can always request to receive it earlier at no additional cost.
The bottle lists your name, your provider's name, three active ingredients, and the expiration date on the back. Active ingredients and percentages differ for each person. Since my medication is targeted at reducing acne and hyperpigmentation, my bottle contains 4% azelaic acid, 1% clindamycin, and 4% niacinamide. More information on the ingredients can be found on Curology's website.
You are able to tweak the ingredients for the next bottle if you discuss it with your provider. I didn't think I needed any formulation changes so I kept everything as is.
Here is my progress since July. These are taken from my left and right jaw, where acne is at its worst. I'm sad to report that my skin did not behave this month. Several weeks ago I broke out from a reaction to a new skincare product. I figured out the culprit in about a week, but by then the damage had been done. I bemoaned having to document the aftermath of the mini skin disaster as my "Month 6" photos, but here we are.
The photos only tell part of the story, though. Aside from the breakouts along my chin and jawline, my nose and forehead look great! Ever since I started Curology, the tiny comedones on my forehead have virtually disappeared. Comedones and whiteheads on my chin and jaw have decreased (but haven't disappeared completely). My cheeks feel really soft and smooth in the absence of annoying bumps, and I feel like it's gotten even smoother since my 3-month checkpoint. Pimples continue to be rare. Hyperpigmentation has decreased too.
Overall, I'm still very happy with my progress. Sometimes I'll skip out on an essence or night cream before bed but I never forget to put on my Curology medicine. This kind of dedication and consistency is rare for me... so that should indicate how important Curology is to my life!
Verdict: Curology is not a miracle worker but it's doing a fantastic job. As someone who's dealt with moderate acne since high school, I'm really happy with the way my skin has been looking lately. Aside from that unfortunate breakout, my skin tone and texture have really improved. My face looks more even toned too. I continue to feel comfortable leaving home with a couple swipes of concealer, without feeling self-conscious about my face. In the future, I may ask my provider to switch up my formulation if it feels like the improvements are stagnating, but right now it is perfect.
If you are interested in signing up, check here to make sure Curology is available in your state.
What do you think of Curology? Are you interested in teledermatology?
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