Doctors prescribe Tretinoin cream to improve a variety of skin conditions. It evens skin tone, improves acne, dark or uneven pigmentation and the appearance of wrinkles. The FDA has approved Tretinoin cream for the treatment of acne, but it is widely used to improve other skin conditions. This off-label use of the drug is widespread, and most people tolerate Tretinoin cream well. There are some side effects of Tretinoin cream that you should be aware of if you are considering using it.
Growth Acceleration of Skin Tumors
The most severe side effect of Tretinoin is the possibility of an increased rate of development in skin tumors. The Mayo Clinic reports that there is some evidence that when applied to tumors that are subjected to either artificial ultraviolet light or sunlight, Tretinoin cream may cause accelerated tumor growth. The evidence of this is in the preliminary stages, and research is contradictory. The best advice for this situation is to use Tretinoin cream under the supervision of a physician and combine it with regular skin examinations.
Skin Sensitivity
Skin sensitivity is a relatively common side effect of Tretinoin cream. The skin irritation can range from mild, such as chapping or warmth, to severe burning, stinging, peeling or redness, according to the Mayo Clinic. Often, the skin sensitivity subsides over time. To minimize the impact of Tretinoin cream on the skin, use it every other day until your skin has time to become acclimated to the medication. Don't increase the dosage to a daily application until your skin is no longer showing signs of sensitivity.
Temporary Changes in Pigmentation
Continued application of Tretinoin cream may lead to changes in skin pigmentation. To reduce the risk of this side effect, reduce skin exposure to sunlight and other forms of UV rays. For example, wear a hat and use a SPF of at least 30 when you are outside.
Interactions
Using tretinoin cream while using other products may increase the likelihood of developing skin irritation as a side effect. Hair removal creams, shaving creams or toners with alcohol as a main ingredient and abrasive cleaners can all heighten the skin's sensitivity. Anyone who normally uses these products should refrain from using them when they begin using tretinoin cream. Once the skin adapts to the tretinoin cream, begin adding other products slowly. At the first sign of irritation, stop both the skin product and tretinoin cream until the irritation subsides. Continuing to use tretinoin cream while the skin is irritated can lead to peeling, blisters and general discomfort.
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