Tretinoin enhances and boosts natural skin renewal in at least 3 major ways. This particular tretinoin gel from Obagi is micronized and is time released so that it impacts the skin more slowly.
Subjects were randomized to receive tretinoin gel 0.05%, its gel vehicle, or tretinoin gel microsphere 0.1% in a multicenter, investigator-blind, three-arm study. Adverse events were primarily cutaneous and generally mild to moderate in severity and reversible without discontinuation of the study drug.
How to Use
The exact way you use tretinoin gel depends on your skin and your specific needs. Your dermatologist will guide you to optimize your routine, taking into account things like your skin type and sensitivity.
Wash your face gently, using a gentle cleanser that does not strip it of its natural oils. Avoid scrubbing and excessive washing or rinsing, as this can irritate your skin.
A good cleanser can help reduce the irritation associated with tretinoin, so look for one that doesn’t contain harsh ingredients like alcohol, sulfates, or perfumes. You can also consider adding a skincare product that soothes inflammation, like niacinamide, to your routine.
It’s important to minimize sun exposure while on tretinoin, especially during the first 2 or 3 months of usage. This is because it can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, which could lead to sunburn or other damage. You can protect your skin by applying a broad spectrum sunscreen before going outside.
Precautions
When used regularly as directed, tretinoin gel helps most people with acne and aging. However, some people have serious side effects while using this medication. Talk to your doctor about your risk.
This medicine may make your skin sensitive to sunlight, especially during the first 6 months of treatment. Wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat will help. Apply sunscreen after each use of this medicine, particularly before going outdoors.
Do not apply this medicine to windburned or sunburned skin or open wounds. Also, avoid getting it in your eyes, lips, or nose (or corners of the mouth). If this happens, wash with water at once.
Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to this medicine; or if you have other medical conditions, such as liver disease, diabetes, or heart problems. This medication is not usually given to children or teenagers.
Side Effects
A few side effects are possible with tretinoin gel, but they are usually mild and temporary. It is common for tretinoin to cause slight peeling and dryness of the skin, especially when it first starts being used. These effects are caused by the medication increasing the speed at which your skin cells turn over, causing them to shed and expose fresher skin beneath.
This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy, as it may harm the unborn baby. It is also not known if this medication passes into breast milk, so it should not be used by breastfeeding mothers.
This medication can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it is important to wear sun protection when you go outside. Be sure to use a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 when using this medication, and reapply it as directed. It is also important to avoid tanning beds during this treatment.
Storage
Tretinoin should be stored at room temperature and away from light and heat. It is important to keep the medication sealed and only opened when it is being used. It will degrade over time and become less effective if it is exposed to air and sunlight. A tube of tretinoin can typically be used up to two years after its expiration date, even if it has been opened, but the effectiveness will decrease over time.
Whether you are struggling with acne, fine lines/wrinkles or hyperpigmentation, tretinoin is the gold standard ingredient that dermatologists turn to for treating skin conditions. It is a powerful medication that can address multiple concerns and can be an effective treatment for all patients, no matter their needs or skin type. Just remember to be gentle with your skin – excessive washing, scrubbing and other harsh treatments can make acne worse. Follow these tips and your doctor’s instructions, and you should be on your way to achieving beautiful and healthy skin.. tretinoin gel
