What does tretinoin do for skin?

What tretinoin does for skin

Tretinoin is a retinoid, a medicine related to vitamin A. It increases the production of new skin cells and helps keep pores from clogging. That makes it useful for acne, where blocked hair follicles can lead to spots and inflammation.3

Topical retinoids can clear pores and treat blackheads, whiteheads and some pimples. They are used for mild to moderately severe acne, but tretinoin alone is not recommended for severe acne with deep nodules or cysts. Clinicians call clogged pores comedones, a word that sounds far more social than a blocked pore deserves.345

A retinoid can also help lighten dark spots left after acne clears. Topical retinoids may reduce existing acne scarring and help limit later scarring, but that does not mean every mark or scar will disappear.34

Tretinoin can improve fine lines and wrinkles, skin tone and some signs of sun related skin changes. Fine wrinkles may take 3 to 4 months, and sometimes up to 6 months, to improve. Longer use may reduce freckling, sun spots and fine wrinkling, but tretinoin does not repair sun damaged skin.236

Who tretinoin may suit

Tretinoin may suit someone seeking treatment for mild acne, mild uneven pigmentation or fine lines. People of all skin colours can benefit from retinoids. If you have darker skin, watch for irritation because it can trigger dark marks.6

Dry or allergy prone skin may not suit a retinoid well, and retinoids can make eczema worse because they dry the skin. If you have ongoing redness or inflammation, ask a dermatologist whether a retinoid is appropriate. Do not use topical tretinoin during pregnancy. Talk with the prescriber if you are planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding.236

How to use tretinoin

1. 1Follow the schedule your prescriber gave you. Common topical directions are once daily at bedtime. Do not use more or apply it more often than prescribed. A dermatologist may advise starting a retinoid less often to limit irritation.
2. 2Wash the treatment area with mild, bland soap and water, then let the skin dry as directed.
3. 3Use clean fingertips to spread a thin layer over the affected area. Keep tretinoin away from your eyes, ears, mouth, the corners of your nose and areas of sunburn or eczema.
4. 4Use only nonmedicated cosmetics. Ask your prescriber whether to add a moisturizer if dryness develops. Avoid products with a lot of alcohol, menthol, spices or lime, which can sting.
5. 5Avoid unnecessary or prolonged sun exposure. Wear protective clothing and sunscreen over treated areas, and take extra care in very cold or windy weather.

Do not add benzoyl peroxide, hair removers, salicylic acid or dandruff products containing sulfur or resorcinol unless your doctor directs you to. Some prescribed acne plans combine medicines, so check before starting or restarting another topical product rather than building your own chemistry set.24

Tretinoin purging and side effects

Acne can look worse during the first 7 to 10 days of treatment, with redness, scaling and more acne sores. This early flare is sometimes called purging, but worsening acne is not a reason to increase the amount. Acne sores may start to improve after 2 to 3 weeks, though improvement can take more than 6 weeks; topical retinoids can take 12 weeks or longer to show improvement.23

Dryness, itching, burning, stinging, peeling, redness and flaky skin can occur where you apply tretinoin. Retinoids can also increase sun sensitivity. Contact your doctor if symptoms are severe or do not go away. Call promptly for a rash, hives, or pain or discomfort at the treatment area.23

Ask a doctor about acne that is not improving, is widespread, deep or painful, or is leaving scars. Get medical advice if acne is affecting your mental health or if the treated area becomes hot, swollen and red.57