Tretinoin can make your skin extra sensitive to the sun. Use sunscreen and a hat to protect your skin from burning, skin aging and dark spots.
Topical tretinoin is known to induce some side effects such as dryness, irritation and peeling of the applied skin. To minimize these side effects a liposomal formulation of tretinoin was developed.
What is Tretinoin?
Tretinoin is a vitamin A derivative that has long been used as an acne treatment. It also helps improve fine lines and dark spots caused by sun damage. You can get tretinoin in creams, gels or pills and it requires a prescription.
Tretinoin works in the deep layers of your skin to prevent new pimples from forming and to smooth your skin. It may take up to 12 weeks before you see results. Your doctor will advise you on how much tretinoin to use and how often.
When tretinoin is applied to your skin, it creates a reaction that boosts your cell turnover rate. This makes your skin exfoliate and shed dead cells. It also shrinks your pores and makes the skin firmer by stimulating collagen production. It can also help with hyperpigmentation, such as dark patches caused by melasma. You can buy tretinoin in different strengths, and your doctor will choose the right one for you.
How Does Tretinoin Work?
Tretinoin is an effective acne treatment that can also improve surface wrinkles, dark spots and uneven skin tone caused by sun damage. It works by boosting the anti-aging process and speeding up skin cell turnover. It is a gold-standard ingredient that many dermatologists prescribe to their patients.
It can take months before you see the full benefits of this medication. It is important to use it consistently, and not skip or miss applications. During the first 3 to 6 weeks of using tretinoin, it is normal for your acne to worsen because the medication is working on pimples that are already forming.
After washing your face, apply a small amount of this medication to a clean fingertip and gently rub it into the affected area. You may experience a warm or slight stinging sensation when you apply tretinoin to your skin. Avoid rubbing the medication into cut, scraped or sunburned areas. This medication can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, so wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen and a wide brimmed hat when you go outdoors.
What Are the Common Side Effects of Tretinoin?
Tretinoin works to decrease the number of acne pimples and promote quick healing of those that do appear. It also helps to prevent new pimples from forming. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions closely when using tretinoin gel.
It is normal for your skin to be irritated or dry when you first start this medication. It may take 3 to 6 weeks before you notice an improvement in your skin. It can be helpful to use an oil free moisturizer before applying this medication. It is recommended that you avoid combining tretinoin with other products, especially fragrances and cosmetics, which can cause severe irritation to the skin.
Do not apply this medication to open wounds or to areas that are sunburned or swollen. This medication can make your skin more sensitive to the sun and may increase sunburns, even in people who do not normally burn easily. Talk to your doctor about using sunscreen when you are taking this medication.
Is Tretinoin Safe to Use?
Tretinoin may increase cholesterol and fat levels in your blood, which can lead to severe liver or kidney problems. Your doctor will check your blood regularly to see if this is happening. This medication should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Your doctor will discuss the risks and benefits of using it.
While you are taking this medication, avoid sun exposure or tanning beds. It can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight and you could burn more easily. Wearing protective clothing and a hat is recommended, especially during the first 6 months of treatment. Use sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15 and regularly moisturize your skin.
Do not apply this medication to cut, scraped, or sunburned skin, or to the creases of your nose or mouth. If you get this medication in your eyes, flush with large amounts of water and call your doctor. Do not use other skin products on the treated area unless your doctor says you can. Tretinoin 0.1% Gel