Overview
Retin-A is a powerful prescription medication that is mainly used to treat acne. It is also used to improve the overall quality of the skin by improving discolorations caused by acne scars and even smoothing out fine lines. Retin-A is best used under the supervision of a dermatologist or family doctor.
Skin Renewal
Retin-A, a derivative of vitamin A, aids in skin renewal by removing the dead surface skin layers to reveal healthy, unblemished skin underneath. Retin-A is also known as tretinoin, is applied topically to problem areas that include blemishes, discoloration, hyperpigmentation, fine lines and superficial wrinkles. It is basically a type of chemical exfoliation that refines and improves the skin with regular use. It is also known to treat tiny flat warts and comedones, like blackheads and whiteheads, according to dermadoctor.com.
Considerations
Before beginning use of Retin-A, it is important to confer with your personal dermatologist about possible side effects, which include increased sensitivity to sunlight and initial worsening of the skin before improvement is visible. It is still not entirely clear if use of Retin-A can have any adverse effects on an unborn fetus. If you are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant, talk to your personal physician before using Retin-A for acne treatment and skin renewal.
Warning
According to drugs.com, you should always wear sunblock during the course of your treatment with Retin-A. Since skin is more vulnerable to sunlight when Retin-A is applied, it is important to take the necessary precautions to prevent sunburn, which can also lead to blistering. You may want to contact your dermatologist if you think you’ve applied too much of the topical skin treatment although overdose effects of Retin-A have not been noted. Certain allergic reactions like hives, difficulty breathing and swelling of the lips and throat. If any of these reactions occur, contact your doctor immediately.
How To Use
Retin-A is a topical drug, which means that it must be applied directly to the skin, particularly to problem areas. Before applying the medicine, thoroughly wash your hands and the area to be treated then dry the area. Apply a thin layer of the medication about 20 minutes after washing your face. Avoid washing your face and applying sunscreen and makeup to the treated area for about an hour after application. Also, avoid using the medication around the eye area. Use this medication for as long as it is prescribed by your doctor.
Drug Interactions
According to drugs.com, Retin-A may react with the following medications: diuretics, tetracycline, minocycline, demeclocycline, antibiotics like ciprofloxacin and oxoflacin, Bactrim, Septra, Cotrin, chlorpromazine, perphenazine, fluphenazine, promethazine, prochlorperazine and others. Talk to your doctor if you are on any of these medications before using Retin-A.
