Guidelines on Maximizing The Benefits of Tretinoin Retin-A

Here are some guidelines to maximize the benefits of Tretinoin Retin-A.

Retin-A is typically prescribed for use once daily, in the evening, after washing with a mild facial cleanser. You should pat your face dry before smoothing the Retin-A onto your skin.

• Apply Retin-A in a thin layer at night.
• Wash your face with a mild facial scrub or rough wash cloth in the morning to help reduce any noticeable flaking.
• Apply a good water-based moisturizer after washing. This will make the drying effect of Retin-A more tolerable.
• If flaking occurs during the day, use a wash cloth to remove it and re-apply the moisturizer.
• Tretinoin makes you more susceptible to sunburn. Try using a moisturizer that also contains a sunscreen. If not, apply sunscreen anytime you are in the sun even for a short amount of time.
  

When you first start using Retin-A, apply it every other night. The flaking and irritation side effects are usually the worst in the first 2 weeks of application. As your skin adjusts to the medicine, you can apply it more frequently. It's alright to take a break for a couple of days if you notice an increase in the irritation or flaking, just don't stop completely without consulting your health care provider.