The best online services for customized prescription skincare (and why Miiskin stands out)

Have you ever wondered if personalized, prescription skincare is for you? This guide tells you everything you need to know and gives you 9 services that you can try.

Written by:
Jennifer Highland
Medical Content Writer

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The information presented in this article is based on scientific research and the professional advice of our Content Medical Reviewers, who are experts in the field of Dermatology. How we write our content →

What is prescription skincare?

Prescription skincare refers to topical treatments that are prescribed by a licensed healthcare provider to address specific skin conditions like acne, rosacea, eczema, or hyperpigmentation. These products contain active ingredients that are not available over the counter and require a medical prescription due to their potency and potential side effects.

What is personalized skincare?

Personalized skincare typically involves over-the-counter products and routines tailored to an individual’s unique skin type, concerns, lifestyle, and environmental factors. This customization is usually based on skin assessments, quizzes, or AI analysis.

What can you target with prescription skincare?

These treatments often require a prescription from a licensed provider’s approval due to the strength of the active ingredients.

Moderate to severe acne (inflammatory, cystic)
Rosacea and redness
Melasma and dark spots (hyperpigmentation)
Fine lines and wrinkles (anti-aging)
Psoriasis, eczema, and other chronic conditions
Hormonal acne (medications like topical spironolactone)
Skin texture issues (e.g., roughness, scarring)
Sun damage and photoaging

What ingredients are commonly used in prescription skincare?

In prescription skincare, the most common active ingredients include retinoids like tretinoin, adapalene, and tazarotene for acne, aging, and pigmentation; antibiotics and antimicrobials such as clindamycin, erythromycin, and metronidazole for acne and rosacea; and anti-inflammatories including topical corticosteroids and calcineurin inhibitors for eczema and psoriasis. Dermatologists also frequently prescribe skin-lightening agents like hydroquinone, azelaic acid, and kojic acid to manage hyperpigmentation, while keratolytics such as salicylic acid, lactic acid, and urea help exfoliate and smooth the skin. For hormonal acne, anti-androgenic agents like spironolactone or clascoterone are sometimes used, while barrier-repair ingredients such as ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide are often added to improve tolerability.

How to get a prescription for customized skincare online?

Via Miiskin, you can connect with board-certified dermatologists, who may prescribe you a personalized compounded medication. If prescribed, your compounded formula may include up to five active ingredients, selected by your dermatologist as part of your treatment plan. After receiving your prescription, you can order it through a reputable online pharmacy. If you are interested in a personalized formula, you can discuss this option with your dermatologist during your consultation.

Transparent pricing: A consultation is typically around $59, and medication refills are around $39. You pay separately for your prescription at the pharmacy when you order it. There are no automatic subscriptions — you only purchase medication when you need it.

Important Disclaimer: Compounded medications are not reviewed by the FDA for safety or efficacy.

Miiskin Promo

Get a prescription for personalized skincare

Have an online consultation with a dermatologist to get personalized prescription skincare designed just for you!

Get a customized formula

What are the best online services to get personalized skincare?

Below, we’ve highlighted nine online services that provide personalized skincare solutions. Each platform takes a slightly different approach—ranging from fully customized prescription treatments to flexible subscription models and dermatologist-led care. This overview will help you compare their offerings, understand the type of support they provide, and choose the service that best fits your skin’s unique needs and lifestyle.

Company	OTC or Prescription	Type of Dermatology Provider	Subscription
Miiskin	Prescription	Board-certified dermatologists	Yes
Curology	Prescription	Licensed providers (includes dermatologists)	Yes
Musely	Prescription	Board-certified dermatologists	Yes
Agency (by Curology)	Prescription	Licensed providers (includes dermatologists)	Yes
Nurx	Prescription	Licensed medical providers	Yes
Rory (by Ro)	Prescription	Licensed medical providers	Yes
Hers	Prescription	Licensed medical providers	Yes
Proven Skincare	OTC	No medical providers (AI-driven)	Optional
Prose	OTC	No medical providers (AI-driven)	Optional

Miiskin

What you get: prescription for generic or personalized skincare
How it works: Have a virtual consultation with an independent dermatologist, you get an e-prescription and then you buy your medication on-demand at an online pharmacy
Also offers: online treatment for most common skin problems with a board-certified dermatologist licensed in your state

Curology

What you get: Monthly subscription of personalized prescription skincare
How it works: Online quiz and photos reviewed by a licensed provider
Also offers: Over the counter products

Musely

What you get: A monthly subscription of prescription skincare featuring pre-set formulas
How it works: Online dermatologist visit
Also offers: Treatment for menopause

Agency

What you get: Monthly subscription of pre-set prescription skincare
How it works: Skin quiz + provider assessment
Also offers: Over the counter products

Nurx

What you get: Monthly subscription of prescription skincare (mainly generics and some some pre-set personalized formulas)
How it works: Online health questionnaire + provider review
Also offers: Birth control, weightloss, STI testing

Rory

What you get: Monthly subscription of personalized prescription skincare
How it works: Online consultation with provider
Also offers: Weightloss, fertility and multi-vitamins

Hers

Type: Monthly subscription of prescription skincare (with some personalization)
How it works: Telehealth consultation
Products: Tretinoin, clindamycin, dark spot correctors
Also offers: Haircare, mental health, sexual wellness

Prose

What you get: Monthly subscription of personalized skincare (non-prescription)
How it works: AI-driven quiz selects from 185+ clean ingredients
Also offers: Custom serums, moisturizers, routines

Proven Skincare

What you get: Monthly subscription of personalized skincare (non-prescription)
How it works: 3-step AI quiz using 47,000+ ingredient data
Also offers: Clean, custom cleanser + SPF daytime and night creams

Miiskin Promo

Get a prescription for personalized skincare

Have an online consultation with a dermatologist to get personalized prescription skincare designed just for you!

Get a customized formula

How to choose an online personalized prescription skincare service

With so many services available, it can be hard to decide which service is best for you. Below we are mentioning a few things you should consider when choosing an online provider for prescription skincare.

Qualified providers: Not all services are the same. Some use licensed dermatology providers, but not board-certified dermatologists. For example, Miiskin lets you choose a specific board-certified dermatologist, while most platforms assign you randomly. If choosing your provider matters to you, check before signing up.
Types of medications: Options range from branded and generic prescriptions to fully customized formulas. Dermatologists in the Miiskin network assess your skin and prescribe branded, generic, or personalized treatments —based on your needs and preferences.
Effective ingredients: Know what’s in your formula. Look for services that use prescription actives with minimal fillers. Understanding each ingredient’s role helps you choose wisely.
Transparent pricing & flexibility: Most services run on subscriptions. Prioritize platforms with flexible plans, easy cancellations, and the option to adjust as needed. Miiskin, for instance, provides a prescription and lets you order on-demand through a trusted mail-order pharmacy.
Ongoing support: Many platforms assign different providers for follow-ups, which can disrupt continuity of care. Miiskin allows direct messaging with your chosen dermatologist for several days after receiving your prescription, ensuring consistent, personalized support. From then on, if you’re happy with your dermatologist, they’ll remain your dedicated provider. If not, you can switch to another dermatologist for future care.
Reputation: Check reviews on trusted platforms. Verify the provider’s credentials, experience, and the quality of their service before committing.

Provider & Prescription Information

Miiskin connects patients with independent dermatologists who provide care through their own private practices. Miiskin does not employ dermatologists and does not sell or distribute medications. Any prescriptions issued by the dermatologists can be filled at third-party pharmacies of the patient’s choice.

FAQ about prescription skincare and consultations to get prescription skincare

A comparison of online services offering prescription skincare and why Miiskin stands out

How is prescription skincare different from over-the-counter (OTC) products?

Prescription skincare is formulated with higher concentrations of active ingredients and is designed to treat specific medical skin concerns like acne, rosacea, or hyperpigmentation. Over-the-counter (OTC) products can help with general skin maintenance, but they’re typically less potent and not tailored to your individual skin needs. With Miiskin, an independent dermatologist will prescribe a treatment plan made specifically for you for more effective and longer-lasting results.

Is prescription skincare safe for all skin types?

Yes, when they are formulated under the guidance of a board-certified dermatologist, which is exactly what you get via Miiskin. Your chosen dermatologist will carefully review your skin type, medical history, and goals to ensure your treatment is both safe and effective. Each prescription is personalized, so you’ll only receive products suitable for your skin.

How long does it take to see results?

Everyone’s skin is different, but most Miiskin users begin noticing visible improvements within 4 to 8 weeks. Some treatments may take a bit longer depending on the condition being addressed. Staying consistent with your routine and following your dermatologist’s guidance are key to achieving the best results.

Can prescription skincare cause side effects?

Some active ingredients like retinoids or hydroquinone can cause mild redness, dryness, or peeling, especially at the start of treatment. These effects are temporary and usually subside as your skin adjusts. Your independent dermatologist in the Miiskin network can recommend ways to minimize irritation and make the transition smoother.

Do I need to use prescription skincare forever?

Not necessarily. Some treatments, such as hydroquinone, are designed for short-term use until your skin concern improves. However, most prescription skincare works best as part of a long-term maintenance plan to keep your skin clear, balanced, and healthy. Your independent dermatologist in the Miiskin network will guide you on how to adjust your routine over time.

Can I use my own skincare products with prescription treatments?

Yes, combining your prescription treatment with the right cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen can enhance your results. Your chosen dermatologist may recommend compatible products to avoid irritation and ensure your skincare routine works harmoniously.

How does an online prescription skincare service work?

It’s simple. Through Miiskin, you complete a quick online consultation, upload photos of your skin, and share your medical history. An independent dermatologist will review your information and, if appropriate, prescribes a personalized treatment. You can then purchase your prescription through a partnered online pharmacy without needing an in-person visit.

Who prescribes the skincare treatment online?

All prescriptions through Miiskin are issued by board-certified dermatologists who are part of the Miiskin network. They review every case individually to ensure you get the safest and most effective treatment plan.

How is my prescription skincare delivered?

Once your dermatologist formulates your prescription, you can purchase it through an online pharmacy and it is shipped directly to your home, usually within a few business days. It’s convenient, secure, and completely hassle-free.

Can my customized prescription be adjusted with time?

Absolutely. Your skin can change over time, and Miiskin makes it easy to follow up online with your independent dermatologist in the Miiskin network to modify your prescription, whether that means adjusting the strength, switching ingredients, or updating your treatment plan.

Do online prescription services accept insurance?

Since most prescription skincare is considered cosmetic rather than medical, it’s typically not covered by insurance. Miiskin operates on a transparent, out-of-pocket model with no hidden costs, just straightforward pricing for your consultation and treatment.

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