Doctors frequently prescribe oral or topical tretinoin for individuals 12 years of age and older to treat acne. This product is available as a gel or a cream that the person applies to their skin once daily. However, it comes with some side effects that people must be aware of. Redness, peeling, and skin irritation have been reported.
Furthermore, people often find that their acne worsens when they begin treatment. With continued use of the medication, the acne typically improves. This medication is only available by prescription from a dermatologist or primary care provider. What should a person know before discussing this treatment option with their doctor? The following prescription tretinoin retin a guide provides an overview of this product.
What is Retin-A?
Retin-A is a form of vitamin A. This product replaces old skin cells with new while helping unclog pores that have become plugged with excessive oil and dead skin cells. Removing the oil in dead skin cells helps reduce acne outbreaks and improve the appearance of the skin. This treatment is not used to address wrinkles.
Possible Side Effects
A person must be aware of potential side effects to determine if they wish to try Retin-A for their acne. People often find they experience side effects initially, but these effects fade over time. If they persist or worsen, the medical professional who prescribed the medication should be alerted immediately.
Common side effects include skin peeling or discomfort. The skin may feel warm or sting once the treatment is applied, and it may turn red. People taking this prescription medication should try to avoid the sun and wear sunscreen whenever they are outside, as retinoids increase their sensitivity to some light. They are at a greater risk of sunburn. As previously mentioned, the individual’s acne may worsen when they initially begin the treatment. However, the acne will improve with continued use.
Some people experience other side effects when using this treatment. Their skin color may either lighten or darken, and the skin may look raw. Blisters have been reported, and some people experience skin crusting.
Few people report serious side effects, but every person using Retin-A should be aware of what to watch for. Hives, shortness of breath, and chest tightening should be reported to the doctor immediately. If the lips, tongue, or face swell or the individual notices swelling around their eyes, they need to seek medical attention immediately.
The Benefits and Drawbacks of Retin-A Treatment
Individuals who use Retin-A to treat acne find the product is easy to apply, and they only need to use it once a day. A generic form is offered to help keep costs down, and many people see a significant reduction in acne outbreaks when using this treatment. However, the skin is more sensitive to sunlight, so a person must be cautious when outdoors. The skin color may change, although the skin lightening or darkening is usually temporary. The individual must also be prepared for their acne to worsen when they initially take this medication. After a few weeks, their acne improves.
Things to Be Aware of When Using Retin-A
Most people find their acne worsens during the first six weeks of using this medication. It is working in the deep layers of the skin, which leads to inflammation and new acne outbreaks. A person should continue using this medication to allow it to work.
Some people report their skin feels warm or slightly stings when they apply the medication. If the stinging or warm sensation is overwhelming, let the medical professional know. They may recommend stopping the drug or using it less frequently.
People find their skin peels and is uncomfortable when they first start using Retin-A. This side effect typically disappears within the first four weeks of treatment. Any changes to the skin color also usually resolve with time or when the person quits taking the medication.
Use care when washing the face while being treated with Retin-A. A gentle, non-medicated soap should be used two or three times a day to keep the skin clean. Avoid rubbing the skin to dry it. Gently pat the skin using a towel or washcloth to reduce the risk of irritation and dryness.
Follow up with a moisturizer that contains sunscreen after washing the face in the morning. The sunscreen will reduce the risk of damage from UV rays and dryness. Don’t use any personal care products that contain medication or are abrasive. Furthermore, avoid any products with drying agents, such as salicylic acid.
Using Retin-A
To use Retin-A, begin by gently washing the face and patting it dry. The skin must dry completely before applying the medication, so wait approximately 30 minutes after washing and drying the face to use the product. Place a small amount of the medication on the fingertip and lightly dab it on the face in several places. Slowly spread the medication over the face, ensuring all parts are covered. A thin layer is all that is needed.
Avoid using this product near the corners of the eyes, nose, and mouth. Additionally, never use Retin-A on open wounds. Doing so could irritate the wounds. With time, it becomes easier to determine how much of the product is needed to cover the face. If any medication remains on the skin after spreading it, too much product is being used; reduce the amount the next day until the correct quantity is determined.
It is possible to have too much of a good thing. Never use this product more than once daily. Using it more frequently won’t minimize acne outbreaks. Overuse can lead to severe skin irritation and wasted medication. Always follow the doctor’s instructions exactly to see the best results with the use of Retin-A.
Drug Interactions
Individuals should always let their doctors know about any medications or supplements they take. Vitamins, over-the-counter drugs, dietary supplements, and herbal products may interact with Retin-A. The doctor should also be aware of any prescription medications a person is taking to ensure they won’t interact with this product.
People see great success using Retin-A for the treatment of acne. However, some people find they cannot use this medication. Don’t worry, speak to the doctor to learn about alternative options that may be more effective. Every person can treat their acne. Retin-A is an excellent option, but it is not the only one.