Can you use tretinoin for back acne?

When is tretinoin a useful option?

Tretinoin is one of several topical options for back acne, alongside adapalene, benzoyl peroxide, azelaic acid and salicylic acid. A topical treatment goes directly on the skin, despite the name sounding like a subject for a meeting. Treatment applied to the skin alone can be enough when back acne is mild and there are not too many pimples.1

Blackheads and whiteheads are usually closer to the skin's surface and are not swollen or painful. Inflamed acne can include pus filled bumps and deeper, sore nodules or cysts. Tretinoin is also used for inflammatory acne, but extensive breakouts or acne that does not clear with topical treatment can require tablets, such as an antibiotic or isotretinoin, chosen by a doctor.14

How do you apply tretinoin to your back?

Follow your prescription for the strength, amount and frequency. The bedtime routine below applies general retinoid guidance to the back; it is not a separate dosing schedule for tretinoin.4

1. 1Wash gently before bed. Use a mild cleanser rather than scrubbing the treatment area.
2. 2Wait 20 to 30 minutes after washing before applying the retinoid.
3. 3Apply tretinoin over the acne prone area as directed by your prescriber. Use a back lotion applicator or ask someone to help reach difficult spots.
4. 4If the retinoid is too drying, apply a moisturizer that will not clog pores immediately after washing, then apply the retinoid 20 to 30 minutes later.

A back lotion applicator helps put treatment where it belongs, which is a surprisingly logistical job for skincare.3

What else helps while you use tretinoin?

• Wear loose, breathable clothing and change out of sweaty clothes after exercise. Shower as soon as possible.
• Avoid backpack straps and other items that rub against your back.
• Choose gentle, fragrance free skincare. Skip abrasive scrubs, loofahs and back brushes, and do not pick or squeeze spots.
• Protect exposed back skin outdoors with sunscreen that will not clog pores, with SPF 30 or higher, broad spectrum protection and water resistance.

How long does treatment take?

Back acne treatment can start showing improvement in six to eight weeks, while complete clearing can take three to four months. Use those as general back acne expectations, rather than a fixed timetable for your tretinoin prescription. If there is no difference after six to eight weeks, arrange a dermatologist appointment instead of repeatedly changing products.3

When should you stop or get medical help?

Retinoids can be drying. Stop using a product that irritates your skin and discuss the treatment with your prescriber. If you are pregnant, speak to your healthcare professional before using topical medication. Seek medical help for deep, painful spots, scarring, hot or swollen skin, or acne that affects your mental health. Do not wait several months to ask for help with those problems.256

What does tretinoin do for acne?

Tretinoin belongs to the retinoid family of vitamin A based medicines. Retinoids unclog pores, which can improve acne and help other acne gels and creams work better. Topical tretinoin also reduces inflammation and oiliness and helps prevent spots. The treatment addresses acne formation, rather than simply removing an individual visible blemish.245