Retin A Acne

Retin-A (tretinoin) is a strong acne treatment medication, and it is derived from vitamin A. It is available in cream or gel form only by prescription and is also known as Retin-A Micro, Avita, Renova, and generic tretinoin. It is used to treat all degrees of acne, and has most effect on those with comedonal acne (mostly whiteheads and blackheads). Its advantages have proven to go beyond clearing acne because people who have had post-inflammatory hyper-pigmentation found that Retin-A reduces the look of dark spots and discoloration left by acne breakouts. Adults who suffer from acne also benefit because it can reduce the look of wrinkles.

A very thin layer of Retin-A is applied once a day, or once every other day in the evening before going to bed. Prior to that, you should have washed your face with a mild cleanser and waited for about half an hour. The half hour wait is supposed to ensure that the skin is completely dry because even if the slightest bit of damp could cause irritation.

When applying, there are a few areas one should avoid. The eye and the area around it because the delicate skin there is easily irritated, the mouth area, especially near the corners, the lips, and the creases around the nose. As little as possible should be used around the chin area because it tends to get very and flaky.

Some of the side effects of Retin-A include dryness of the skin, itching, peeling or flaking, redness and general skin irritation. They are usually worst during the first weeks of use, but they slowly improve as the skin adopts to the treatment. It also causes photosensitivity better known as sensitivity to the sun. This means that you are more likely to get sunburns or get skin damage and you will be required to use sunscreen.