What is tretinoin gel used for?

What does tretinoin do for acne?

Tretinoin is a retinoid, a type of vitamin A medicine. Acne develops when oil and skin cells plug pores; tretinoin helps keep those pores clear. A topical retinoid, meaning one applied to skin, can also help lighten dark marks left after acne and serve as maintenance treatment once breakouts are controlled.124

Medicines applied to skin generally work best for mild to moderate acne. More serious acne can need additional treatment. Deep, painful lumps, developing scars or acne affecting your mental health are reasons to see a doctor rather than relying on gel alone.15

How do you use tretinoin gel?

1. 1Wash your hands and the treatment area with a mild cleanser, then let the skin dry as directed.
2. 2Use clean fingertips to spread a thin layer over the affected area.
3. 3Keep gel away from your eyes, mouth, ears and nose corners. Do not apply it to sunburned skin or eczema.
4. 4Apply at bedtime, following your prescription. Do not use more or apply it more often than prescribed.

If irritation develops, your dermatologist can adjust the amount or frequency, or suggest applying moisturizer first. Make those changes with their help. There is no single retinoid schedule that suits every treatment plan.1

What belongs in the rest of your routine?

Wash gently twice daily and avoid scrubbing or picking spots.5

Do not add benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, hair removers or other topical medicines unless your doctor directs you. Avoid cosmetics with lots of alcohol or menthol, which can sting.3

During the day, seek shade, wear protective clothing and apply sunscreen to uncovered skin. Choose broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher with water resistance and a noncomedogenic formula. Retinoids can make skin more sensitive to sunlight.14

How long does tretinoin take to work?

Acne can worsen during the first 7 to 10 days. Some sores improve within 2 to 3 weeks, but improvement can take more than 6 weeks. For an acne treatment plan generally, expect at least 6 to 8 weeks before fewer breakouts become apparent.13

Fine wrinkle improvement takes longer: 3 to 4 months, sometimes up to 6 months. Tretinoin can reduce fine wrinkles, not remove them or repair sun damaged skin.3

Who should be careful?

Do not use retinoids during pregnancy. Discuss pregnancy plans or breastfeeding before starting. Dryness, skin allergies or substantial redness need assessment before choosing a retinoid. Tell your dermatologist about past retinoid irritation; irritation does not usually mean an allergy. On darker skin, irritation can trigger dark marks, so report problems early.134

Dryness, peeling, burning and stinging can occur. Contact your doctor if symptoms are severe or persistent. Call immediately for rash, hives or pain at the treatment area; do not dismiss these as ordinary early worsening.3