Tretinoin is a derivative of vitamin A and is approved for the treatment of acne vulgaris, the most common type of acne. The medication works by shrinking the sebaceous glands in the skin, thereby reducing sebum production and preventing blocked skin pores. Tretinoin also works as a skin exfoliant and helps to remove dead skin cells and fade acne scars caused by previous outbreaks. Tretinoin is available by prescription.
Step 1
Wash your face with water and a gentle soap. Avoid using harsh soaps or cleansers, as these can cause excessive dryness and increase the risk of developing redness and irritation following use of tretinoin.
Step 2
Wait at least 20 minutes after washing your face or showering before applying tretinoin. This will give your skin time to dry and cool down and will help minimize side effects.
Step 3
Apply a thin layer of the medication to existing acne blemishes and to areas prone to breakouts. The best time to apply tretinoin is just before going to bed at night, but morning or mid-day applications may reduce side effects in some cases.
Step 4
Wash the medication off your skin in the morning before applying moisturizers or cosmetics. Drugs.com recommends using a moisturizer with built-in sunscreen immediately after washing your face in the morning.
Step 5
Avoid excessive sun exposure while using tretinoin. This medication can cause photosensitivity and increase your risk of serious burns. Always wear sun protection when going outside.
Step 6
Consult your doctor if you develop severe side effects when using tretinoin. In some cases, the redness, dryness, burning and itching associated with tretinoin use can be diminished by an adjustment in dose or frequency of application, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
Tips and Warnings
- Some people using tretinoin notice an increase in acne a few weeks after beginning therapy. This is a normal reaction and does not mean the medication is not working. Continue using tretinoin for at least six weeks before deciding to discontinue the medication.
- Do not use tretinoin in conjunction with other topical acne medications, such as those containing salicylic acid, unless specifically told to do so by your doctor. Combining these medications can cause excessive skin irritation, redness, scaling and dryness. Merck states that use of benzoyl peroxide inactivates the effects of tretinoin, and the two should therefore not be used at the same time. Using more tretinoin than prescribed will not speed recovery from acne. The medication should not be visible on your skin following application. Excessive use of the medication will increase irritation and flaking, according to Drugs.com. The Mayo Clinic warns against applying tretinoin to sunburned or wind-burned skin, open skin wounds, and to areas near the eyes, lips or inside the nose.
Things You'll Need
- Moisturizer
- Sunscreen, SPF 15 or greater
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