What does tretinoin treat?

Which acne problems can tretinoin help?

Topical retinoids such as tretinoin treat blackheads, whiteheads and some pimples by clearing pores. They also help prevent new spots and reduce acne related inflammation and oiliness. A dermatologist can prescribe a retinoid as maintenance treatment after acne is under control. Retinoids can also help lighten the dark marks left after breakouts; those marks are different from scars that change the skin's texture.345

Does tretinoin treat wrinkles and sun damage?

Tretinoin boosts collagen and improves skin tone, but reducing fine wrinkles is not the same as removing them or repairing sun damaged skin. Its cosmetic benefits do not make tretinoin an all purpose skin makeover, however ambitious the skincare vocabulary gets. If you stop using tretinoin, the improvement can gradually disappear.12

What does tretinoin 0.1% cream treat?

Tretinoin 0.1% cream is a prescription treatment for acne vulgaris, the medical name for common acne. The NuCare packaged cream contains 0.1% tretinoin by weight and is labelled for acne treatment. Tretinoin's broader cosmetic uses are separate from this cream's labelled purpose. Do not choose 0.1% simply because the number looks more substantial; your prescriber should choose the formula and strength.26

How do you apply tretinoin?

1. 1Follow your prescription's amount and schedule. Tretinoin is generally used at bedtime, but your dermatologist can adjust frequency to manage irritation.
2. 2Wash your hands and the treatment area with a mild cleanser. Let your skin dry as directed.
3. 3Use clean fingertips to spread a thin layer over the affected area. Keep tretinoin away from your eyes, mouth and the corners of your nose.
4. 4Do not apply tretinoin to sunburned skin or skin affected by eczema. Wash your hands after application.

Moisturizer can help with dryness, and your dermatologist can advise applying it before the retinoid. Moisturizer and sunscreen have useful roles alongside tretinoin, without turning the bathroom shelf into a supporting cast. During the day, seek shade, wear protective clothing and use a broad spectrum, water resistant sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Do not add other acne medicines, including benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, unless your care team directs you to.37

How long does tretinoin take to work?

Acne can worsen during the first 7 to 10 days. Some sores improve after 2 to 3 weeks, although improvement sometimes takes more than 6 weeks. For an acne treatment plan more generally, expect at least 6 to 8 weeks before seeing fewer breakouts. Fine wrinkle improvement takes longer: about 3 to 4 months, sometimes up to 6 months.13

Who should be careful, and when should you get help?

Do not use retinoids during pregnancy. Tell your prescriber if you are trying to become pregnant or breastfeeding. Mention eczema, very dry or sensitive skin, previous reactions to retinoids and all medicines you use. In darker skin, irritation can trigger additional dark marks, so have your dermatologist adjust an irritating routine rather than pushing through it.27

Mild dryness, redness and irritation can occur; contact your care team if they persist or bother you. Report burning, itching, crusting or peeling promptly. Stop the 0.1% cream and contact your prescriber if you develop a sensitivity reaction or chemical irritation. Seek urgent medical help for swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat.67

See a doctor if acne is deep, painful, causing scars, affecting your mental health or not improving with treatment. More serious acne can need additional treatment rather than tretinoin alone.35