Retin-A

It’s common for your acne to worsen during the first 3 to 6 weeks of using Retin-A (tretinoin). The medication is working in the deep layers of your skin, which can cause inflammation (swelling) and new pimples to form. Don't feel discouraged and continue to use Retin-A (tretinoin). Talk with your dermatologist if you're concerned.

You might feel a warm or slightly stinging sensation when you apply Retin-A (tretinoin) to your skin. This is normal, but tell your dermatologist if it's too bothersome. You might have to temporarily stop the medication or use it less often.

You might notice peeling and skin discomfort when you first start Retin-A (tretinoin), but it usually goes away within 2 to 4 weeks. Your skin color might also become lighter or darker, but it should go back to normal with time or once you stop using the medication.

Avoid washing your face too often and scrubbing your face too hard while you're using Retin-A (tretinoin). Use mild, gentle, non-medicated soap to wash your face 2 to 3 times per day. Then, gently dry your skin with a towel. This protects your skin from irritation and dryness.

Apply a mild moisturizer or a moisturizer with sunscreen every morning after you wash your face. This helps protect your skin from damage and dryness while you're using Retin-A (tretinoin).

Avoid soaps, shampoos, and other personal care products that are medicated or hard on the skin (abrasive). Also avoid products that contain drying agents (e.g., alcohol, spices, lime), sulfur, resorcinol, or salicylic acid. If you have to use these products, be sure to "rest" your skin before you use Retin-A (tretinoin). Ask your dermatologist about which products are safe to use with Retin-A (tretinoin).

Store Retin-A (tretinoin) at room temperature and away from heat (especially the gel, since it’s flammable). Keep the medication tightly closed and out of reach from children.

Gently wash and pat dry your skin. Wait 20 to 30 minutes for your skin to completely dry before you apply Retin-A (tretinoin).

Place about a half-inch or less of Retin-A (tretinoin) onto your fingertip. Lightly dab it onto your forehead, chin, and both cheeks. Then, spread the medication over your entire face so it becomes a thin layer.

Try not to get Retin-A (tretinoin) near the corners of your nose, mouth, eyes, and any open wounds. These areas might get irritated.

The half-inch amount of Retin-A (tretinoin) should be enough to cover your entire face. As you continue to use the medication, you can adjust how much you need. You’ll know you’re using too much if the medication doesn’t disappear into your skin right after you rub it in.

Don't use Retin-A (tretinoin) more than once per day. It won't make the medication get rid of your acne any faster or better. Instead, using it more often than prescribed can cause serious skin irritation. You'll also probably waste the medication.