How to use tretinoin (Retin-A)

Tretinoin is a topical (on the skin) medication that greatly helps with acne.  It directly affects the oil glands to decrease the production of sebum, the main cause of acne.  It is a generic topical medicine.  Brands that are similar include Retin-A,  Renova, Differin, and Tazorac.  Renova is mostly used cosmetically, Differin for acne and rosacea in sensitive skin, and Tazorac for stubborn acne.  All of these can be used cosmetically as well.

Cosmetically, tretinoin helps with fine wrinkle lines, pigment irregularities (dark and light skin areas), enlarged pores, and oiliness.  Therefore, it can help reduce the signs of aging and sun-damaged skin. 

For all its beneficial effects, there are also negatives.  These can include skin irritation, redness, peeling, and increased sun sensitivity.

Tretinoin should be applied as tolerated.  For sensitive skin, that may mean every 3rd night at first.  Start by washing your face prior to bedtime with a cleanser.  For acne patients, an antibacterial (but mild) soap such as Lever 2000 is a good choice.  Pat your face dry and allow it to dry completely.  Apply a thin layer of the tretinoin.  More is not better; a thin layer is fine.

Apply it everywhere that you would like the benefits.  Many people are oily in the 'T-zone'; forehead, nose, and chin.  For acne, apply it to areas that develop pimples (not just the pimples themselves).  For sun damage, apply to cheeks and perhaps the upper neck as well.  In the morning, wash off the medicine with mild soap, and follow with a facial moisturizer.  Try to use a moisturizer with sunscreen, and if going outdoors for extended periods, protect your skin with SPF 30 sunscreen.

See how you do with this regimen.  If you do not get overly red, irritated, or peeling after 2 weeks or so, increase to every other night.  Then, if tolerated, apply every night.  If you have an important event coming up, or know you will be in the sun for extended periods, do not apply it for several nights to minimize the side effects. 

Do not use while pregnant or breastfeeding.  Though absorption through the skin is very small, it is safest not to use at these times.