Using tretinoin with sunscreen

Which sunscreen should you use?

Look for broad spectrum protection, SPF 30 or higher and water resistance together. The sunscreen label needs to say more than "sunscreen", because the product name is not the entire job description. If you have acne, choose a sunscreen labelled noncomedogenic, meaning formulated not to clog pores. If your skin is sensitive, look for a mineral sunscreen containing zinc oxide, titanium dioxide or both.24

Apply sunscreen to all skin not covered by clothing, including the areas you treat with tretinoin. Also seek shade and wear protective clothing, such as a wide brimmed hat, and sunglasses. Avoid unnecessary or prolonged sun exposure, tanning beds and sunlamps. Using tretinoin only at night does not replace daytime sun protection.124

How to fit both into your routine

1. 1During the day, apply sunscreen to uncovered skin. A sunscreen moisturizer is an option for addressing sun protection and dryness together.
2. 2At bedtime, wash your hands and the treatment area with a mild cleanser. Let your skin dry as directed for your prescription.
3. 3Apply a thin layer of tretinoin with clean fingertips. Keep it away from your eyes, mouth, ears and the corners of your nose. Do not apply it to sunburned skin or areas affected by eczema.
4. 4Use tretinoin at the frequency your prescriber specifies. Do not use more or apply it more often than prescribed.

A sunscreen moisturizer combines two routine steps in one product, which gives the bathroom shelf one less tenant. If tretinoin irritates your skin, your dermatologist can adjust the amount or frequency, or advise applying moisturizer before tretinoin. Make those changes with your dermatologist rather than changing the prescription yourself.23

What if your skin becomes irritated?

Tretinoin can cause dryness, redness and peeling. Retinoids can worsen eczema because of their drying effect. In darker skin, irritation can trigger dark marks, so discuss irritation promptly instead of pushing through it. Previous irritation does not automatically mean a retinoid allergy; tell your dermatologist what happened.234

Keep cleansing gentle and remove makeup at the end of the day. If you have acne, do not scrub your skin: scrubbing can irritate it and make acne worse.5

Tell your doctor about severe or persistent burning, stinging, swelling or blistering. Call immediately for a rash, hives, or pain at the treatment area. Do not add other topical medicines, including benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, unless your doctor directs you. Do not use retinoids during pregnancy; discuss pregnancy plans and breastfeeding with your prescriber.14

How long does tretinoin take to work?

Acne treatment generally takes at least 6 to 8 weeks before you start seeing fewer breakouts, and topical retinoids can take 12 weeks or longer to show improvement. Fine wrinkle improvement can take 3 to 6 months. Sunscreen remains part of the routine while you wait; tretinoin treats skin concerns, but it does not substitute for sun protection.123