Tretinoin is the retinoic acid underlying the drug Retin-A, whose function is to reverse skin damage. Retin-A cream is commonly used to treat acne. There are some over-the-counter drugs that contain a principle derived from tretinoin, while the drug Retin-A can only be purchased on presentation of a doctor's prescription. Before using it, it is important to know how Retin-A works, what are the possible side effects and how to apply it correctly.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Getting to know the Retin-A
Step 1. Understand what the uses of this drug are
Retinoic acid has been shown to be beneficial in treating multiple skin disorders, especially acne. Retin-A helps clear clogged pores and relieves skin cracking. It can also be useful in reducing the visibility of wrinkles and skin damage caused by exposure to sunlight. However, Retin-A cannot heal acne, make wrinkles disappear, or repair sun damage.
- Several studies have shown its usefulness in treating mild to moderate acne, including blackheads, comedones, cysts and lesions in both adolescence and adults.
- In addition to this, it has been shown that prolonged use of Retin-A at a very concentrated level can greatly attenuate the visibility of wrinkles (even if it is not able to eliminate them). It is also possible that the dark spots on the skin, known to be caused by the sun, may lighten with continued use of the drug.
- Research has shown that Retin-A also relieves skin roughness by exfoliating and smoothing it on the surface.
Step 2. Understand how Retin-A works
The tretinoin underlying the drug belongs to a group of chemical compounds called retinoids, which affect the growth of skin cells. Retin-A inhibits the development of microcomedones, tiny skin thickenings due to the presence of dead epithelial cells that accumulate in the pores and clog them. Generally, the development of microcomedones anticipates the formation of acne; Retin-A works by preventing this from happening and can hinder the onset of pimples by also reducing their severity.
At the same time, the drug promotes faster healing of skin rashes caused by acne. It also reduces the "stickiness" of the epithelial cells in the hair follicles and sebaceous glands
Step 3. Get medical advice
If you think that Retin-A could be useful in treating your skin problems, contact your general practitioner so that he can recommend a dermatologist, a doctor who specializes in treating the skin and its ailments.
- The dermatologist will be able to suggest which treatment is best suited to the characteristics and symptoms of your skin. Remember that it is very important to let him know about your medical history and any other ailments that are affecting you now or that you have suffered in the past, especially if they concern the skin, for example eczema.
- In some cases, even your primary care physician may have the skills to suggest you use Retin-A.
Step 4. This drug is available in the market in different formats
Retin-A is available in liquid, gel or cream form for external use. Commonly, the gel formulation is more suitable for treating acne because it has less emollient properties, however it may dry out the skin. For those who have dry skin, it is therefore advisable to prefer the cream drug.
Retin-A is available in different concentrations. The gel comes in two different percentages: 0, 025% or 0, 01%. The cream is available in the following concentrations: 0.1%, 0.05% and 0.025%. The percentage of the liquid form is 0.05%. Generally, your doctor will prescribe a reduced dose and strength to start with, which may suggest you gradually increase as needed. This will reduce the risk of suffering from unwanted effects
Step 5. Learn about possible side effects
The possibility of medium intensity side effects occurring is quite high. If any of these disorders become severe, unbearable or hinder the normal course of your daily life, contact your doctor immediately. Note that most side effects occur during the first 2-4 weeks of using Retin-A. Generally, the complaints tend to subside with continued use of the drug. The most widespread and scientifically documented side effects include:
- Dry skin;
- Blistering and redness of the skin;
- Itchy, cracked or flaky skin
- Sensation of heat or burning of the skin;
- Initial worsening of acne.
Step 6. Learn about contraindications
Since the drug is absorbed by the skin, pregnant women should avoid using it in order not to risk harming the health of the unborn child.
- If you are using Retin-A to treat acne, do not use any other products intended to treat this condition. A combination of chemical compounds could cause a worsening of the condition of the skin, even severely irritating it.
- Avoid using skin scrubs or products that contain exfoliating agents, such as benzoyl peroxide, resorcinol, salicylic acid, sulfide, or other acids.
Method 2 of 2: Apply Retin-A
Step 1. Read the directions contained in the package
Generally, Retin-A should be applied daily before bedtime, or sometimes just two or three times a week. For best possible results, it's best to let it sit overnight.
Before use, discuss the dosage, method and frequency of application with your dermatologist and pharmacist to make sure you understand the instructions clearly. If in doubt, don't be afraid to expose them to both
Step 2. Wash your hands, then cleanse the skin of the area to be treated
Use mild soap and water. Avoid abrasive cleansers, such as those that contain micro-granules or other exfoliating agents. Pat the skin dry with a towel.
Make sure the skin is completely dry before applying Retin-A. The best thing to do is to wait 20-30 minutes after washing it
Step 3. Apply the medication with your fingertips
Alternatively, you can use a Q-tip or cotton pad, especially if you are using Retin-A in liquid form. Use a small amount, about the size of a pea (either in liquid, gel or cream form), or enough to cover the entire skin surface to be treated with a thin layer of product. The Retin-A layer should be thin and moderate, rather than covering the skin abundantly. In general, you shouldn't apply more than the size of a pea to a single specific area. Wash your hands after smearing the drug on your skin.
- Apply Retin-A exclusively to the affected area. Do not distribute it over the entire surface of the face or neck.
- Use extreme caution when applying. Be careful that it does not come into contact with the skin around the mouth and eyes. If you accidentally touch your eyes, rinse them immediately with plenty of water. Use lukewarm running water and continue rinsing for no less than 10-20 minutes. In case of persistent irritation, consult your doctor.
Step 4. Use Retin-A on a regular basis
To get the maximum benefits, it is important to use it constantly and carefully. Try to apply it at the same time every night so that the gesture becomes part of your evening beauty routine.
- Remember that, during the first 7-10 days, the acne situation may get worse, but it should improve in the following days with regular use of the drug. In some cases, however, it may take up to 8-12 weeks for the first benefits to be visible.
- Never increase the dose or the number of applications. Even if you forgot to apply Retin-A the night before, don't try to make up for it by duplicating the amount or number of applications the following day. Always stick to the directions given, using the drug only once a day and never exceeding the indicated dose. Excessive use would expose you to the risk of side effects, without improving the condition of your skin in any way.
Step 5. Do not expose yourself to UV rays
Retin-A can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight. Do not expose yourself to the sun for a long time, also avoid lamps and tanning products. During the day, protect your skin with a sunscreen with sun protection factor (SPF) no less than 15, to prevent sunburn or irritation. Use clothing and accessories that allow you to stay covered, such as hats, long pants, sunglasses, and long-sleeved shirts.
If you get sunburned, wait for your skin to heal completely before applying Retin-A
Step 6. If your skin looks very dry, use a moisturizer
Ask your doctor for advice on which products are best suited to nourish the skin following the use of Retin-A. Generally, water-based creams, gels, and lotions are best suited to those who use the drug to beat acne. If, on the other hand, you use Retin-A to reduce wrinkles and skin spots, go for an oil-based product.
Wait at least an hour before applying any other product to Retin-A treated skin
Step 7. Contact your doctor
Most people have not experienced any side effects caused by Retin-A, but if you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor immediately:
- Crusting or blistering, burning or swelling of the skin.
- Dizziness, headache, confusional mental state, anxiety or depression.
- Drowsiness, difficulty with speech or facial paralysis.
- Allergic reactions, including hives, swelling and breathing difficulties.
- See your doctor right away even if you get pregnant while using the drug.
