Tretinoin

Tretinoin is a very effective medication that work in a variety of ways to treat acne, including helping skin cells shed properly thereby preventing clogged pores. Tretinoin also has great anti-aging benefits for the skin.

Redness, peeling and skin sensitivity can be experienced with treatment, but following the instructions below will help minimize these side effects. Irritation is not necessary for the medicine to be effective. Your skin will adjust to the medicine over time.

Instructions:

Tretinoin should only be applied to your skin once a day, before bedtime.

• After gently washing your face, apply a small pea-sized amount to your entire face. Avoid applying the medication near your eyelids or around the corners of your mouth and nose.
• Always apply a facial moisturizer after.

Note: If this is your first time using a retinoid, it is best to start using it every other night for the first couple of weeks, and then increase to nightly use as tolerated.

A couple of things to keep in mind:

• You do not need to wait 20 minutes for your skin to dry before applying the medicine.
• This medication will make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Make sure you wear a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every morning, and wide-brimmed hats whenever outdoors in the sun.

Some helpful tips if you experience irritation:

• Make sure you are applying a small, pea-sized amount or less for your entire face. Using more does not mean it will work better.
• You may pre-mix the Tretinoin in your palm with a liberal amount of facial moisturizer before applying. Alternatively, you can apply a facial moisturizer first, and then apply the Tretinoin afterward.
• Skip a night or two if your skin becomes irritated, but still apply a facial moisturizer. You can resume the medication once the irritation has subsided.

Consistent usage is key!

If you become pregnant while taking this medication, discontinue use immediately and message your doctor for an alternative.