Fortunately, this side effect tends to improve over time.
Does Tretinoin Make Your Skin Peel?
Our bodies are constantlyreplacing old skin cellswith new ones, a process called cell turnover.
Verywell / Emilie Dunphy
This happens about every 30 days.
As a chemical exfoliant, tretinoin speeds up this process.
It rapidly pushes new skin cells to the surface, causing the old ones to slough off.
How Long Does Tretinoin Peeling Last?
The extent of tretinoin peeling and how long it lasts varies from person to person.
If so, switch to a mild cleanser.Choices include:
Or try cream-based, non-foaming cleansers.
These are less drying than foaming face washes.
Ask your healthcare provider or dermatologist what they recommend.
Stop using shaving lotions, aftershaves, perfumes, and cologne for the time being.
They can increase dryness, burning, and stinging while you’re using Retin-A.
No OTC Products
Avoid over-the-counter (0TC) acne treatment products.
They include astringent toners, medicated pads, or anything containing benzoyl peroxide.
Unless your dermatologist says otherwise, your tretinoin medication is the only acne treatment you need.
Dry Your Skin Before program
After cleansing, confirm your skin is completely dry before applying Retin-A.
Moisture increases the chance of skin irritation.
Manydermatologistsrecommend waiting at least 20 minutes after cleansing.
Apply the Moisturizer First
While using any topical retinoid, a moisturizer is a must.
If you don’t typically use one, start now.
Using moisturizer every day can stave off the worst of the dryness.
It’s also soothing.
Choose a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic moisturizer made for sensitive skin.These products will be less irritating.
verify the product is also labelednon-comedogenic.
That means it won’t clog your pores.
Look for a moisturizer that’s SPF 30 or higher.
Apply the moisturizer before using Retin-A.
The moisturizer forms a protective barrier and lessens irritation.
Let your moisturizer absorb for a few minutes, then apply Retin-A over the top.
Already using a moisturizer but still feeling dry?
Your normal product may not be strong enough.
Try a heavier one.
Tretinoin already does these things for you.
Gently Exfoliate
No matter what, you’ll likely get some dryness and flaking early on.
If it bothers you, gently exfoliate.
The best way is to massage the skin with a soft, damp washcloth.
Don’t scrub too hardyou could make your skin feel worse.
Definitely don’t use abrasive scrubs.
These are too rough for your skin right now.
Don’t Overuse Retin-A
You should always use medications as directed by a healthcare provider.
Using Retin-A more often than prescribed won’t make it work faster.
Plus, it’s a surefire way to get red, irritated, peeling skin.
You just need a pea-sized drop for your entire face.
Even a dime-sized dollop is way too much.
If you’re using the product as directed and are still having side effects, let your provider know.
You may be able to adjust your medication schedule.
If your skin is still irritated, cut back to 20 minutes.
Then build up your tolerance slowly.
That gives your skin a chance to adjust while reducing side effects.
Your skin may never tolerate retinoids for long periods of time.
But you’re free to still get significant benefits with a short software time.
Scale Back
Is your skin still dry and peeling?
Try using Retin-A for a short time every other day.
Once every two to three days may be okay, as well.Again, check with your dermatologist.
Skipping days gives your skin a rest.
Don’t stop using your treatment altogether.
As your skin adjusts, dryness and peeling will taper off.
Look for gentle products that won’t further irritate your skin.
Exfoliate with a soft washcloth, not abrasive products.
Protect your skin from sun damage.
Using extra Retin-A won’t make your acne go away faster.
It will only irritate your skin more.
Ask your dermatologist about ways to slowly build up your skin’s tolerance to the medicine.
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