Content

• Steps
• Tips
• Warnings

Retin-A is a retinoic acid that is used to repair damaged skin. Pharmaceutical grade retin-A is prescribed by a physician and can only be purchased with a prescription. Many OTC drugs are Retin-A derivatives. How to use Retin-A depends on your skin type and condition.

Steps

1. 1 Check with your doctor to determine if Retin-A will help specifically for your skin condition. Dermatologists are doctors who specialize in skin conditions. However, other board certified doctors may also prescribe Retina-A.
2. 2 Consult the dosage form and concentration that is best for your case.
   • Retin-A is available in gel and cream form.
   • Retin-A is available in a generic prescription form called tretinoin.
   • Available concentrations range from 0.1% to 4.0%.
3. 3 Learn about the benefits of using Retina-A. The drug has been found to be useful in several skin conditions.
   • Retin-A has long been recognized as effective in treating mild to moderate acne, including acne, whiteheads, cysts, and other lesions in adolescents and adults.
   • The appearance of wrinkles is significantly reduced with prolonged use of high concentration Retina-A. The wrinkles will not completely disappear, but they will become less visible.
   • Darkened skin becomes lighter with prolonged use of Retina-A.
   • Research has shown that Retin-A reduces roughness by providing a smoothing and exfoliating effect on the skin's surface.
4. 4 Apply Retin-A depending on the type, condition of the skin and the concentration of the drug.
   • For best results, use Retin-A before bed.
   • Apply sparingly. Large amounts may irritate the skin.
   • Retin-A can cause flaking. You can get rid of flaky skin with a scrub, cloth or fingertips.
   • Use a moisturizer throughout the day to reduce dry and flaky skin after washing.
   • Apply a moisturizer before applying makeup for an even application.
   • Use a sunscreen with at least SPF 15 for sun protection, or higher to prevent sunburn and irritation during the day and early evening.
   • Wear a hat in the middle of the day in high temperatures.
   • Reduce the frequency of using the cream if excessive flaking occurs.
5. 5 Beware of side effects from using Retin-A products. Side effects that have been reported in studies:
   • Excessive dryness.
   • Blisters and redness of the skin.
   • Itching.
   • Burning.
   • Peeling.
6. 6 Take precautions when using products with Retin-A.
   • Do not use Retin-A if you are pregnant. Studies have shown that breastfeeding mothers may be hypersensitive to these products during pregnancy.
   • Do not use other anti-acne products when using Retina-A.
   • Avoid using peeling products or products that contain benzoyl peroxide.
7. 7 See your doctor immediately if any of the following conditions occur:
   • Dizziness.
   • Headache, confusion, anxiety, or depression.
   • Drowsiness, slow speech, or paralysis of the facial nerve.

Tips

• It can take up to several weeks before results are visible.

Warnings

• Do not use cream near your eyes, mouth, or lip area.