Retin-A, or topical tretinoin, is retinoic acid that can help repair damaged skin and is most commonly used to treat acne. Although they must be purchased with a doctor's prescription, many over-the-counter products contain Retin-A derivatives. So, you should seek information about the benefits, side effects, and how to use Retin-A first.
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Method 1 of 2: Knowing About Retin-A
Step 1. Understand its intended use
This product has proven to be useful for treating certain skin problems, especially acne. Retin-A can help unclog pores and reduce skin peeling. This product is also useful for reducing the appearance of wrinkles and skin damage caused by sun exposure. However, Retin-A cannot cure acne, restore wrinkles, or repair sun damage.
- Retin-A has long been known to be useful in treating mild to moderate cases of acne, including black and white blackheads, cysts and skin lesions in adolescents and adults.
- In addition, the appearance of wrinkles is greatly reduced (though not disappeared) with long-term use and higher doses of Retin-A. Sun spots will also fade with continued use of Retin-A.
- Research shows that Retin-A can also reduce rough skin by smoothing or exfoliating its surface.
Step 2. Find out how Retin-A works
Retin-A (generic name: tretinoin) is a vitamin A derivative and belongs to the class of retinoid drugs that affect the growth of skin cells. Retin-A works by changing the pattern of growth and attachment between skin cells. This compound can inhibit the formation of microcomedo, a small blockage in the skin due to the accumulation of cells that fill the pores. Microcomedo formation usually triggers acne. So, Retin-A can prevent and reduce the number and severity of acne that does appear.
These drugs also promote acne recovery. In addition, Retin-A can reduce the "adhesiveness" of skin cells in sebaceous follicles or oil glands
Step 3. Consult a doctor
If you think Retin-A is the right choice for your skin problem, make an appointment with a GP who can refer you to a dermatologist if necessary. Dermatologists are experts in skin conditions and especially, skin problems.
- General practitioners can and often do prescribe Retin-A in uncomplicated cases so you may not need to see a dermatologist.
- Your doctor can choose the right treatment according to your symptoms and specific skin type. Be sure to tell your doctor about any other skin conditions you have, as well as your medical history, especially if you have or are still suffering from other skin conditions such as eczema.
Step 4. Identify the different types of Retin-A
Retin-A can be obtained in liquid, gel, and cream topical preparations. Gel preparations are usually more suitable for acne because they do not soften the skin too much. However, the gel can dry out the skin. So, if you have dry skin, Retin-A in cream may be the best choice.
Retin-A is available in a variety of dosages. The gel is available in a choice of 0.025% or 0.01% dosages. The cream is available in a choice of 0.1%, 0.05%, or 0.025% dosages. While the liquid preparation is available in a dose of 0.05%. Doctors will generally prescribe a lower dose to start with and increase it if needed. This gradual increase in dosage is done to prevent side effects
Step 5. Know the potential side effects
Mild side effects from the use of Retin-A may occur. However, if any of these side effects get worse, become intolerable, or interfere with your daily functioning, contact your doctor immediately. Be aware that most side effects will occur during the first 2 weeks of using Retin-A. In most cases, the side effects will lessen with regular use. The most common and scientifically documented side effects of Retin-A include:
- Dry skin
- Reddish and blistered skin
- Itchy, peeling and scaly skin
- Warm or burning sensation
- Increased number of pimples at the beginning of use
Step 6. Know the contraindications
This drug is absorbed through the skin so pregnant women should not use Retin-A because it has been proven to cause defects in the fetus.
- If using it to treat acne, do not use other acne medications while using Retin-A as this can exacerbate skin irritation.
- Avoid using exfoliating products, or products containing exfoliating ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide, resorcinol, salicylic acid, sulfur, or other acidic compounds.
Method 2 of 2: Using Retin-A
Step 1. Read the instructions in the recipe
Generally, Retin-A is used at night, or once every 2-3 days. For best results, use Retin-A at night.
Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist the correct dosage and method and frequency of use. You can ask them any questions
Step 2. Wash your hands and problem areas of the skin
Wash your hands and face thoroughly with mild soap and water. Try to avoid abrasive soaps or any products that contain "microbeads" or other exfoliating ingredients. After that, pat the skin dry.
Make sure your skin is completely dry. Wait 20-30 minutes before applying Retin-A to make sure your skin is dry
Step 3. Apply the product with fingertips
You can also use a cotton swab or cotton swab, especially if you are using Retin-A in liquid form. Use Retin-A about the size of a pea (either in liquid, gel, or cream form) or just enough to spread onto the skin. Retin-A should be applied thinly, and not too thickly coat the surface of the skin. Generally, Retin-A needed in a single use in certain areas is no more than the size of a pea. Wash your hands afterward.
- Apply the product only to the problem areas of the skin, not the entire face and/or neck.
- Be careful when applying Retin-A. Do not touch the area around the mouth and under the eyes. If this product gets into the eyes, rinse with water. Use lukewarm water and rinse for 10-20 minutes. If irritation persists, contact a doctor.
- Wash your hands thoroughly after you're done. This way, residual Retin-A will not transfer to other people, other parts of the skin, or enter the eyes or mouth accidentally as this is dangerous.
Step 4. Use Retin-A consistently
You should use Retin-A regularly to get its maximum benefits. Try to use this product at the same time every night. That way, you can get used to it. Retin-A is not a single-use treatment when you have acne because the skin-healing effects of this product are long-lasting.
- Keep in mind that your acne may get worse in the first 7-10 days of use, but should improve within the first few weeks with regular use. In some cases, the time it takes for the results to be felt is 8-12 weeks.
- Never double the dose or the amount and frequency of use. If you miss a dose and use it every day, just skip that dose. Do not double the dose. Similarly, don't take Retin-A more than a pea-sized amount or more than once a day. This will not benefit the skin, and will actually increase the chance of side effects.
Step 5. Avoid sun exposure
Retin-A can make you more sensitive to sunlight. Try to avoid long-term sun exposure as well as tanners and UV lamps. Use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every day to prevent sunburn or irritation throughout the day. Wear protective clothing such as hats, long sleeves, and long pants when spending time outdoors and in the sun.
If you have a sunburn, wait for your skin to heal before using Retin-A
Step 6. Use a moisturizer if your skin is too dry
Talk to your doctor about the right moisturizer if your skin is too dry as a result of using Retin-A. Generally, water-based moisturizing creams, gels, or lotions are suitable if you are using Retin-A to treat acne. If using Retin-A to treat wrinkles or dark spots, oil-based creams and lotions are fine.
Do not apply creams or other topical medications for up to 1 hour after using Retin-A
Step 7. Call the doctor
Be aware that most people do not experience serious side effects while taking Retin-A. However, if you experience any of the following symptoms, you should contact your doctor immediately:
- Blister, crusty, burning, or swollen skin
- Dizziness, headache, confusion, anxiety, or depression
- Drowsiness, slowness of speech, or facial paralysis
- Allergic reactions, including hives, swelling, and difficulty breathing
- If you become pregnant while taking Retin-A
