It also works especially well oncomedonal acne, which is the punch in that involvesblackheadsor whiteheads.
In addition to brand name Retin-A products, there are low-cost generics sold under the name tretinoin topical.
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This video has been medically reviewed byCasey Gallagher, MD.
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Retin-A is usually prescribed whenover-the-counter medicationsand optimal skincare fail.
Retin-A iscomedolytic, meaning that itprevents the blockage of pores.
It does so by binding to receptors on a pop in of skin cell called akeratinocyte.
This blocks the effects of hormones that regulate the shedding of cells.
Cell turnoveris improved as a result.
That means that older cells are replaced with new ones, which are being produced at an increased rate.
When that occurs, old cells push to the surface instead of building up and clogging pores.
All of this prevents the formation ofcomedones, the origins of all pimples.
Retin-A also has anexfoliating effect.
This gives the skin a more even texture and makes enlarged pores look smaller.
These may require specialist scar treatment procedures.
Recap
Retin-A is a prescription drug applied to the skin to treat acne.
It works by increasing the speed by which skin cells are produced and shed.
By doing so, the cells are less likely to clog pores and cause pimples.
Off-Label Uses
Retin-A is embraced by some as an anti-aging product.
It is said to reduce fine lines and wrinkles while making the complexion look brighter and smoother.
Lab studies involving human skin samples suggest that it increases cell turnover.
Studies in humans have shown that Retin-A may increase the thickness of the outer skin layer (epidermis).
It is also often used in combination withhydroquinoneand topical corticosteroids.
As such, Retin-A may not be the best option if you’re simply looking for an anti-aging cream.
Before Taking
Retin-A should be used under medical supervision as part of a comprehensive acne treatment plan.
If you use another over-the-counter or prescription acne remedy, let your healthcare provider know before starting treatment.
More is not necessarily better when it comes to treating acne.
In some cases, you may need to take a break from your current acne medications before starting Retin-A.
You should also walk your healthcare provider through your daily skincare routine.
Retin-A should not be prescribed to children under 12.
In this age group, safety has not been established and the drug may be too harsh.
It is not known whether the drug is excreted in breast milk.
Pregnant women should only use Retin-A if the benefits outweigh the possible risks.
An in-depth conversation with a healthcare provider is needed to make an informed choice.
Retin-A should be used with caution in people who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
It should not be used in kids under 12.
You may need to adjust your current skincare regimen to avoid irritation while using Retin-A.
Other Related Drugs
There are other tretinoin-based topical drugs used to treat acne.
The choice of drug may be based on the severity of your acne and the condition of your skin.
Dosage
Retin-A is applied to the skin daily and delivers the best results when used consistently.
In some cases, it can take six weeks or more.
How to Use and Store
Retin-A is used once daily before bedtime.
Apply enough to cover the affected area lightly.
Putting on a thick layer will not improve results and may only increase skin irritation.
Avoid applying Retin-A around the corners of the eyes, nose, or mouth.
You should not apply it to open wounds, as this can cause pain and inflammation.
Protect your skin from the sun, wind, and cold.
Your skin will be more sensitive to the elements for several months after starting tretinoin.
Daily sunscreen is advised.
(Refrigerated Retin-A can also be soothing to the skin.)
Retin-A gel is flammable.
Discard any expired drugs.
Use only a thin layer of Retin-A to avoid irritation, and be sure to wear a sunscreen daily.
Results may take anywhere from two to six weeks (or more).
Side Effects
As with all drugs, Retin-A may cause side effects.
Some of the initial side effects may resolve as your body adapts to treatment.
Others may be severe and require you to stop the medication temporarily or permanently.
Do not stop treatment.
These symptoms will eventually improve.
This exposes the underlying cells to the effects of UV radiation.
you could minimize these effects by using sunscreen, though they may still occur to some degree.
Severe side effects of Retin-A include:
Treatment should be temporarily stopped if these side effects develop.
Once the skin has healed, a lower dose should be prescribed.
If the severe side effects return, other treatment options should be considered.
Warnings and Interactions
Retin-A can interact with certain medications, cosmetics, and skincare products.
Chief among these are topical products that contain alcohol, sulfur, resorcinol, or salicylic acid.
Using Retin-A with any such products can increase skin dryness.
The drug has since been discontinued due to safety and efficacy concerns.
Summary
Retin-A (tretinoin) is a prescription cream used to treat acne.
Applied once nightly before bedtime, Retin-A will generally improve acne symptoms within several weeks.
However, there may be skin drying, flaking, and the temporary darkening or lightening of the skin.
Breakouts may also temporarily worsen before the skin starts to clear.
Retin-A should only be used in adults and children over 12.
It might take two or three weeks of using Retin-A (treitinoin) to see any benefits.
However, in some cases, it may take six weeks or more.
No, Retin-A is not effective in reducing acne scars.
At most, it might make superficial scars become less obvious.
At first, using Retin-A might cause acne to appear worse than before.
This is a somewhat common symptom.
If this happens to you, keep following the instructions given to you by a doctor or dermatologist.
These symptoms will eventually clear up.
Retinol, found in many over-the-counter creams and serums, is vitamin A in topical form.
Retin-A is a synthetic derivative of vitamin A that is stronger and requires a prescription.
Ortho Dermatological.Package insert - Retin-A (tretinoin).
2014;14(8):629-41. doi:10.2174/1389557514666140820102735
Valeant Pharmaceuticals.Package insert - Retin-A Micro (tretinoin) gel microsphere.
Ortho Dermatological.Package insert - Renova (tretinoin cream) 0.02%.
Roche Pharmaceutical.Package insert - Accutane (isotretinoin capsules).
IBM Watson Health for Mayo Clinic.Tretinoin (Topical Route).
