How to Use Retin-A
Retin-A is a popular acne treatment containing tretinoin, an active ingredient that is effective in treating whiteheads and blackheads. Tretinoin works by unclogging the bacteria in the pores and moving it to the surface. Retin-A is easy to use and you should be on your way to noticeably clearer skin in six weeks.
Things You'll Need
- Doctor's prescription
- Face wash
- Wash cloth
- Towel
- Moisturizer
- Moisturizer with sunscreen
Instructions
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Visit your doctor for a prescription. Retin-A is only available with a prescription. The medicine comes in two strengths, so your doctor or dermatologist will evaluate the best form for you.
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Clean your face with a gentle face wash and dry your face gently with a towel. Do not use a medicated acne face wash or a toner, as this can contribute to irritation. Retin-A should be applied once per day, preferably at night, so you can perform this step before going to bed.
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Squeeze a pea-sized amount of Retin-A onto your fingertips and apply a thin layer onto your face. Avoid your eyes and mouth. A thin layer is always enough--the manufacturer, Ortho Dermatological, has found that applying more than this will not help the product work faster and can lead to skin irritation.
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Avoid the eyes and mouth when applying Retin-A. If you do accidentally get some medication in your eye, it may sting but you can safely flush your eye out with water to remove the irritation.
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In the morning, wash your face with a gentle face wash and softly rub your face with a damp wash cloth. Retin-A can cause flaking, dryness or peeling, but using a wash cloth--gently--can help alleviate this side effect.
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Apply a moisturizer or lotion with sunscreen after washing your face. Retin-A can make your skin more sensitive to the sun and it is easy to get sunburned while using this product. Always apply a lotion with at least SPF 15 in the morning and use a more powerful sunscreen if you will be out in the sun for a long period.
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Apply your makeup or cosmetics. It is safe to use your regular cosmetics while using Retin-A.
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Be patient. Many users become frustrated when Retin-A doesn't seem to be working fast enough. It can take up to six weeks of daily applications to have any noticeable effect on your acne. Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, keep applying Retin-A daily.
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Tips & Warnings
After using Retin-A for three or four weeks, you may notice you have new acne. Relax and don't assume the medicine is not working. Ortho Dermatological insists this is normal and an indication that the medicine is dislodging the bacteria underneath your skin. You should start to see visible improvement in your acne after six weeks, but don't stop using Retin-A unless your doctor says so. You may need to continue using Retin-A regularly to keep your acne from returning.
Talk to your doctor if you develop blisters, swelling or painful redness while using Retin-A. This medicine may cause small amounts of skin irritation, but anything severe or painful warrants a trip to the doctor's office. Talk to your doctor if you become pregnant while using Retin-A. Currently, Retin-A is not approved for pregnant women.
Resources
- Photo Credit Slawomir Rodak at www.sxc.hu
