Retin-A is the trademark for a topical product that contains tretinoin, an active ingredient found in vitamin A. In the U.S., Retin-A is available in a number of brand names such as Altinac, Atralin, Avita, Renova, Retin-A Micro Gel, Retin-A and Tretin-X, according to Drugs.com.
History
Retin-A was originally developed as an anti-acne treatment and has been successfully used for that purpose for more than 30 years, according to the Consumer Guide for Plastic Surgery. However, people who applied Retin-A products for acne were pleasantly surprised to see marked improvements in their overall facial appearance, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration subsequently approved the product for cosmetic use as well.
Effects
The acne cycle begins when your body produces extra oil that clogs your skin pores, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Bacteria infect the oil plugs, leading to blackheads, whiteheads, pimples and pus-filled cysts. When you apply a Retin-A product to your acne lesions, it penetrates the top layer of skin to loosen clogged pores and prevent the formation of new acne blemishes, according to Ortho Dermatologics, the company that makes Retin-A Micro Gel. Retin-A also thins the outermost layer of your skin, thickens the underneath layer and promotes the production of the protein known as collagen, according to the Consumer Guide to Plastic Surgery. Those improvements in skin composition make your wrinkles less noticeable and even out your skin tone and texture.
Indications
Retin-A may be prescribed to prevent and treat acne blemishes and to restore skin texture, according to the Consumer Guide to Plastic Surgery. Your doctor may also recommend a Retin-A product to improve the color of skin that's discolored by sun damage, aging or light freckling. Finally, Retin-A can be used to prepare your skin for facial surgery or laser skin resurfacing and continued after the procedure to promote healthy skin growth.
Side Effects
As your skin acclimates to Retin-A, you may initially experience the retinoid effect that includes skin redness, itching, dryness, peeling and mild burning, according to the Derma Network. These side effects will go away as your body becomes used to the tretinoin.
Tips
Minimize unwanted side effects by using only the amount of Retin-A prescribed by your doctor, applying it to dry skin and avoiding the use of other skin products for at least one hour, according to Drugs.com. Treated skin areas will be sensitive to the sun, so remember to use sunscreens and protective clothing when you're outdoors.
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