Retin-A Treatments for Acne

Retin-A  (Tretinoin gel 0.1%) has been proven to reduce the severity of adolescent acne (acne vulgaris).  In a number of different clinical studies, Retin-A proved itself to be more effective in reducing the number of acne blemishes than several other acne medications.

Retin-A can significantly reduce the severity of acne scarring by making it easier for the body to shed the dead skin that blocks pores - this reduced blockage reduces the size of comedones and results in less scarring.

Using Retin-A

At bedtime, use a gauze pad or cotton swab to apply a thin layer of Retin-A to the areas of your skin that have acne blemishes.  Wash your hands immediately after applying the medication. Don't apply Retin-A near the eyes or mouth or on open cuts; Retin-A can irritate sensitive skin.

Always use acne medication, and all medications, according to the label directions. Retin-A should only be used once a day, using it more frequently than directed or using more than necessary will not make it work better and may have negative consequences thus increasing the possibility of side-effects. Remember, even over-the-counter treatments are medications and should be used carefully.

It takes time to start working. When you first start using Retin-A your acne may SEEM to get worse, but don't stop using it - it may take up to six weeks before the medicine is working to its full potential.

Cosmetics and Retin-A

Cosmetics may be used while using Retin-A but be sure to remove all cosmetic products completely before applying Retin-A.

Pregnancy and Retin-A

Retin-A is a topical medication (applied to the skin) and, when used as directed, less than 10% of the medication will pass into the mother's bloodstream and less than that will reach the baby. More than 10% may get into the bloodstream if the Retin-A is applied to cuts on the skin or breaks in the skin or if more than just the recommended thin coating is used; the less used, the less risk there will be to the baby. 

There has been no proven link between the use of Retin-A during pregnancy and birth defects and it is unknown how much, if any of the Retin-A will wind up in breast milk, it may be wise to either switch to an acne product without Retin-A or use the Retin-A medication very sparingly and then only with your doctor's approval.

Since Retin-A's effect on pregnancy is not known for sure, be safe and don't use it if you're pregnant.

Side effects of Retin-A

Immediately after applying a medication with Retin-A your skin may feel warm, your skin may turn slightly red and you may feel a mild stinging. These effects will go away as your skin adjusts to the medication.

Retin-A may increase your sensitivity to the sun and wind as well as to cold temperatures. Minimize your exposure to the elements, wear protective clothing in the sun and don't use a sunlamp.

Retin-A, when used as directed, may cause itchiness and scaling of the skin; this may be more severe on some people than on others. If more than the necessary amount of Retin-A is used this itching and scaling may be more pronounced.