Tretinoin and benzoyl peroxide for topical use are two active ingredients commonly used to treat acne, but many dermatologists advise against using them simultaneously. In the past it was thought that the use of benzoyl peroxide could decrease the effectiveness of tretinoin, but some studies have shown that there is actually no cause for concern. However, it is still true that both active ingredients can cause skin irritation, therefore, if they are combined, there is a risk of drying or damaging the skin. If you are using tretinoin gel (not tablets), talk to your doctor and be sure to follow the recommended protocol for each medicine. If you take tretinoin by mouth instead, you don't have to worry about the interaction with benzoyl peroxide. The advice in this article applies only to those who use both tretinoin and benzoyl peroxide topically.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Simultaneously Using Tretinoin and Benzoyl Peroxide Topically
Step 1. Alternate the two medications for the first two weeks
While it is absolutely safe to use tretinoin and benzoyl peroxide at the same time, some dermatologists worry that this can cause skin irritation. This happens because benzoyl peroxide products usually have exfoliating properties that tend to crack the skin. However, several studies have shown that both drugs can be used, provided that targeted precautions are taken to reduce the likelihood of inflammation occurring.
- For the first two weeks, apply the medicines every other day. For example, if you use tretinoin on Monday, wait until Tuesday to apply benzoyl peroxide.
- Continue to alternate the products for two weeks to minimize the risk of irritation. At that point your doctor may advise you to safely start using them at the same time.
Step 2. Consider if it is time to start using both medicines at the same time every day
After the first two weeks have passed, the body should have gotten a little more used to both drugs. At this point it is worth considering the option of starting to use both at the same time every day. Talk to your dermatologist before making any changes to your prescribed treatment and ask him to explain possible risks or side effects.
Some studies have shown that applying them at the same time every day can actually carry a lower risk of having side effects than if they were used at different times
Step 3. Protect your skin from the elements
Tretinoin is known to cause photosensitivity. This means that you need to protect your skin from the sun when using products that contain this active ingredient. However, it must be remembered that even exposure to wind and cold can irritate the affected areas.
- Apply a sun protection factor (SPF) cream of 15 or higher whenever you plan on going out in the sun. Even if you use the medicine in the evening, your skin may still be predisposed to suffer sun damage during the day.
- Wear clothes that protect your skin from the sun and strong winds. A wide-brimmed hat is ideal for protecting her from the sun, while scarves will help shield your face from the wind in the cold months.
- Be aware that the risk of skin damage from exposure to the elements is particularly high in the first six months that tretinoin is used. Take the right precautions every time you go out depending on the weather conditions.
Step 4. Moisturize your skin regularly
Tretinoin is known to cause skin irritation, including (but not limited to) a hot / tingling sensation, redness, flaking or crusting. Similarly, benzoyl peroxide has been shown to cause dryness and cracking. It is possible to reduce the side effects of both drugs by keeping the skin well hydrated throughout the day.
When using these medications, use only mild moisturizers and facial cleansers. Choose products that are free or extremely low in alcohol
Step 5. Determine when to see a doctor
Most of the side effects that come with these medicines are minimal and with constant use at some point they go away on their own. However, some reactions may be symptomatic of more serious problems, such as a possible overdose. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience burning, itching, swelling, severe redness or peeling of the skin.
Part 2 of 3: Using Benzoyl Peroxide Correctly
Step 1. Consult a dermatologist to find out more about this active ingredient
There are many over-the-counter benzoyl peroxide products available without a prescription. However, some acne medications that contain this active ingredient are by prescription. The choice of medicines to use depends on the severity of the acne and only a dermatologist will be able to recommend the most suitable treatment for your skin.
- Benzoyl peroxide comes in various formats, including liquid soap, bar of soap, lotion, cream, and even mousse.
- Here are some of the most popular benzoyl peroxide products: Benzac AC, Differin and Panoxyl.
Step 2. Examine the skin before use
Benzoyl peroxide can irritate the skin. If you are using an over-the-counter product for the first time, it is a good idea to test a small amount on one or two isolated areas of the skin for several days to determine if it causes adverse reactions. While it does not cause any side effects, it is best to take some preventative measures and be cautious.
Never use benzoyl peroxide for wind burns, sun burns, splits or cuts, unless your dermatologist tells you to do otherwise
Step 3. Apply a benzoyl peroxide cream, gel, or lotion
If you are going to use a cream, gel or lotion that contains this active ingredient, you must follow the instructions to the letter. Make sure your skin is clean before use and apply only the dose indicated on the package insert.
- Before using benzoyl peroxide, wash the affected area with warm water and a mild soap. After washing, gently pat the skin with a soft, clean towel.
- Apply enough cream / lotion / gel to cover only the affected areas, or observe the dosage your doctor has told you.
Step 4. Use a benzoyl peroxide soap or cleanser
If you use liquid soap, cleansing lotion, or benzoyl peroxide bar of soap, you won't need to wash your face before applying the product. Simply follow the instructions on the package and use only the amount of product that is recommended by the package insert or by your doctor.
Part 3 of 3: Treat Acne Safely with Tretinoin
Step 1. Consult your dermatologist to learn more about tretinoin
Tretinoin gel can only be purchased with a prescription. Its function is to treat acne by keeping the pores clean. However, if your doctor prescribes tretinoin (or other retinoids) for you, you should tell him about the benzoyl peroxide products you are currently using, including over-the-counter ones.
- Airol and Tretinoin Same are two of the most used tretinoin products.
- Some forms of tretinoin, such as isotretinoin or oral, should not be used in the event of gestation or possible pregnancy, as some cause severe birth defects. However, tretinoin for topical administration has not been shown to pose a risk to the fetus.
- Doctors generally recommend that women use two methods of contraception during the entire treatment and within a month after taking the last dose of the drug.
Step 2. Take targeted precautions before applying tretinoin to the skin
Topical tretinoin often causes skin irritation, especially in the first few weeks of use. However, if the inflammation worsens or you do not notice any improvement after 8-12 weeks of continuous use, talk to your doctor to discuss possible complications.
- Avoid washing the affected area and do not apply other topical products for one hour before using tretinoin and for another hour after application.
- Do not use substances that are abrasive or dry the skin, including detergents and products containing alcohol. Tretinoin is known to irritate the skin, so these products can increase the risk of inflammation.
Step 3. Apply tretinoin to affected areas following the instructions
It is very important to observe the instructions of your dermatologist regarding the use of the gel. Do not exceed the doses recommended by your doctor and do not use this drug more than once a day. If you were to skip an application, omit it completely and wait until the next one.
- At least an hour before applying the gel, wash the affected area with a mild, non-abrasive over-the-counter soap.
- Apply the tretinoin to the affected area with your fingertips (after washing your hands), a piece of gauze or a clean cotton swab.
- Wash your hands with a mild soap before applying tretinoin to the affected area.
- It is not necessary to use a large dose of gel to see good results. Some experts recommend using only a very small amount of the product. Alternatively, observe the instructions given to you by the dermatologist.
- Apply tretinoin only in the evening. Since it causes photosensitivity, it is best to use it just before going to bed.
