Medically reviewed by Aimee Paik, MD
Written by Apostrophe Team
Last updated 8/1/2024
In case you haven’t heard, Apostrophe Tretinoin Formula is here! Formulated by dermatologists and compounded in Apostrophe pharmacy, Tretinoin Formula is designed to address wrinkles and fine lines, smooth and plump the skin, and treat and prevent breakouts. Tretinoin is a powerful medication so we’ve created a guide with what you need to know, whether you’re just thinking about trying it out for the first time, or you’ve already integrated it into your routine!
Tretinoin is a very effective medication that can treat acne while firming and smoothing the skin. It works in part by increasing cell turnover and clearing dead skin cells which keeps pores clear and skin looking bright (what people often refer to as a “youthful glow”). Redness, peeling, and skin sensitivity can be experienced when starting out on this treatment, but following the instructions below will help minimize these side effects. And, although these effects are common, it’s important to remember that irritation is not necessary for the medicine to be effective. A higher strength of tretinoin may just mean more irritation, not better results!
Tretinoin should only be applied to your skin once a day, before bedtime.
Gently wash your face.
Apply a fragrance-free facial moisturizer.
On dry skin, 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.
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.
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 (you should be doing this anyway 😉).
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 Formula in your palm with a liberal amount of facial moisturizer before applying. You can also apply another layer of moisturizer after Tretinoin Formula to help with dryness.
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! As you continue applying tretinoin, your skin will adjust and any irritating side effects will subside over time. Stick with it and you will start seeing smoother, more glowing skin. It may even tempt you to delete your FaceTune app ;)
1. Mukherjee S, Date A, Patravale V, Korting HC, Roeder A, Weindl G. Retinoids in the treatment of skin aging: an overview of clinical efficacy and safety. Clinical interventions in aging. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2699641/. Published December 2006. Accessed April 22, 2019.
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