Retin-A, a product originally developed to treat stubborn acne, is also effective in improving the appearance of the skin. While Retin-A is not effective in treating deep wrinkles, it can diminish fine lines, giving the skin a smoother look. The product is applied topically and is only available by prescription.
Identification
Retin-A is derived from vitamin A. Vitamin A contains chemicals called retinoids that help maintain the health of your eyes and skin. When applied to the skin, vitamin A triggers a rapid turnover in skin cells, causing cells to grow and die at a faster rate than normal. Retin-A creams and gels contain tretinoin, a synthetic form of vitamin A made in a laboratory. Doctors prescribe Retin-A in varying concentrations, based on a patient's skin type. Some types of Retin-A contain an added moisturizer to minimize drying of the skin after treatment.
Uses
In addition to diminishing fine wrinkles, Retin-A can be helpful in reducing the appearance of light freckles and age spots due to sun damage. The medication acts as a natural exfoliant, removing dead skill cells and spurring the production of new cells. Doctors may also prescribe Retin-A to prepare your skin if you are undergoing laser skin resurfacing or will be having a cosmetic surgical procedure.
Application
Retin-A is applied in a thin layer to clean, dry skin, usually in the evening. Applying the medication to wet skin can irritate the skin. After application, Retin-A must remain on the skin for at least one hour and should be used according to the schedule recommend by your doctor. It may take weeks or months before any improvement in the skin is noted, according to Drugs.com. Retin-A should not be used if you have sunburn, windburn, sores, broken skin or on areas of irritated, chapped or dry skin.
Side Effects
Potential side effects of Retin-A use include skin breakouts during the first two weeks of use, peeling, itching, tingling or a reddening of the skin similar to a slight sunburn. In some cases, more serious side effects may occur, including red or dry skin, swollen skin or blisters. If these serious side effects occur, your doctor may prescribe medication to treat the problem and may also recommend that you try a different concentration of Retin-A.
Warning
Using Retin-A makes your skin more sensitive to the effects of the sun. Wearing sunscreen and avoiding exposure to artificial UV rays from tanning beds or sunlamps will help protect your skin. It is not known if Retin-A will harm an unborn baby, but the medication can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby, according to Drugs.com. Before using Retin-A, tell your doctor if you are nursing a baby or are thinking about becoming pregnant.
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