AdminTypically used to treat acne, the powerful retinoid also fights early signs of aging like fine lines and dark spots. But it can be difficult to figure out which skin products are compatible with tretinoin & how much to use.
In general, tretinoin should only be used as prescribed by your doctor or dermatologist. It can take a few weeks to months to see full results.
Acne
If you’re battling acne or want to minimise the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, you’ll find tretinoin to be a powerful tool. In fact, it’s considered the gold standard in topical anti-aging treatments.
Tretinoin works to reduce the appearance of blemishes and fine lines by stimulating your skin’s natural collagen production. It also speeds up the rate of cell turnover, so dead skin cells are removed and replaced more quickly than normal. This helps to keep pores unclogged and prevent sebum buildup, which is the main cause of acne breakouts.
It’s also used to treat hyperpigmentation (melasma) and sun damage, although it won’t reverse permanent changes to your skin like severe nasolabial folds or deep wrinkles. It can, however, help to smooth over the appearance of existing scars.
Tretinoin is most effective when used at night as part of your regular skincare routine, and only a small amount of cream is needed. A pea-sized amount is usually enough for the whole face.
Fine Lines & Wrinkles
Wrinkles & fine lines can develop due to aging, sun damage or just from repeated facial expressions. They can become more noticeable as you get older, especially in your 20s & 30s.
The best way to treat these is to prevent them with a strong skin care regimen, including an anti-aging serum, moisturizer & sunscreen. Also, make sure to limit your exposure to the sun & wear a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors.
Topical tretinoin helps improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, sallowness & hyperpigmentation by stimulating collagen production. The effects of tretinoin can be enhanced when used with other anti-aging ingredients, such as peptides, growth factors, hyaluronic acid & niacinamide. Tretinoin can cause dry, peeling skin at first, so it is important to start with a low dose (1-2 times per week) and increase gradually as tolerated. This product should not be used with a harsh exfoliant, as it can cause further irritation. It is also a good idea to use a moisturizer after applying tretinoin cream.
Melasma
Melasma is a hyperpigmentation that presents as dark spots on the skin. It is usually associated with hormonal changes such as pregnancy and birth control pills, but can also be triggered by other things such as oral contraceptive use, sun exposure and aging.
Melasma can be difficult to treat, especially because it tends to return after the hormonal trigger has passed. Even minor amounts of sun can reactivate melasma, so daily broad spectrum sunscreen is essential. Various topical medications including skin lighteners, prescription tyrosinase inhibitors (like hydroquinone) and retinoids can be used to reduce pigmentation. In-office chemical peels, SilkPeel microdermabrasion and laser treatments such as Q-switched Nd:YAG and ablative fractionated lasers can also help but often require several treatment sessions to see any results.
Retinoin is usually paired with bleaching creams or other types of agents that increase the speed at which the skin breaks down melanin. We may also prescribe an antioxidant such as silymarin to improve the appearance of melasma and protect the skin from environmental damage.
Sun Damage
The sun’s rays damage skin cells & cause dark spots to form. Tretinoin is a powerful exfoliant & can lighten the appearance of sun damaged skin, including age spots & melasma. It also improves the look of enlarged pores & reduces redness.
It can take a few weeks or even months for retinol to work. Be patient & use the product as directed to get the best results.
If you have sensitive or dry skin, a cream formulation of tretinoin may be better for you than a gel. You should always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen while using this treatment. It’s important to be aware that tretinoin can make your skin more sensitive and may cause burning or peeling. To minimize these effects, it’s a good idea to begin with the lowest strength possible & increase your frequency of use slowly. Always follow your prescription and the advice of your doctor or dermatologist. Be sure to let them know of any other medications you are taking & if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. tretinoin cream