Tretinoin is an effective ingredient for treating acne, smoothing rough skin and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. However, it can take weeks or even months to see results, and long-term use is key.
Start by washing your face with a gentle cleanser, then gently dry your skin. Squeeze a pea-sized amount of cream or gel onto your finger, and apply gently to the targeted areas of your face.
Acne Treatment
A dermatologist-formulated tretinoin cream is an effective acne treatment because it speeds up the skin’s natural process of creating new cells and shedding old ones. It also helps unclog pores and reduce bacteria buildup that leads to mild, moderate or cystic acne.
It does this by boosting cell turnover, which allows the skin to shed dead skin cells more quickly and prevents them from building up in the hair follicles. When these cells mix with sebum they create clogs that can lead to papules, pustules and cystic acne.
Topical tretinoin also helps diminish the appearance of pitted, textured acne scars by stimulating collagen production and remodeling skin’s structure. Start by using a low concentration of tretinoin (0.1%) and increase usage as tolerated. Avoid exfoliants or other skin treatments while you are adjusting to the medication. Use a moisturizer before applying tretinoin and only apply it to clean skin. A pea-sized amount is plenty to cover the entire face and neck.
Anti-Aging Treatment
Tretinoin works as an anti-aging treatment by increasing collagen production in the skin which can help reduce fine lines and wrinkles. It can also improve rough, dry skin and pigmentation associated with aging. In one double-blind study, applying tretinoin to photoaged skin resulted in a statistically significant improvement in all clinical and histological parameters of aging, including roughness, color, pigmentation, and wrinkling (4).
When used correctly, tretinoin can be a game changer when it comes to anti-aging. But like any other skin care product, it should be incorporated into your regimen as part of an overall preventative skincare routine.
Before you apply tretinoin, always wash your face with mild, bland soap and water and be sure to pat it dry with a clean towel. Avoid over-washing and excessive scrubbing, as this can lead to irritation. Then, carefully squirt a small amount of the gel or cream onto your fingertips and gently apply to your skin in a thin layer, avoiding the eyes, lips and nostrils.
Hyperpigmentation Treatment
Irregular skin discoloration like age spots and sun damage can be treated with tretinoin. The retinoic acid helps dark spots fade and evens out the skin tone by decreasing the amount of melanin in each skin cell. It also can decrease the effect of photoaging on the skin, which is characterized by the loss of cells and collagen and the development of lines, wrinkles, discoloration, visible small blood vessels, and, in severe cases, early skin cancer (Zasada, 2029).
Until recently, tretinoin was only available with a doctor’s prescription, requiring an in-person consultation and extra cost. Now, a new generation of topical retinoids is making it easier than ever to get your prescription and reap the benefits at home.
Fine Lines and Wrinkles Treatment
Tretinoin helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles by encouraging the skin to produce new cells and shedding old, dead skin cells. It can also help fade discoloration, smooth rough skin and create a more youthful complexion.
It takes time for retinoids to make a difference in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and they must be used regularly to maintain their benefits. However, they are one of the few anti-aging treatments whose effectiveness is backed by real clinical research.
While it is safe for most people, tretinoin can cause irritation and redness in some people. You should avoid using it if you have sunburned skin, open wounds or a rash. Additionally, you should not use it if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. It is also not recommended for anyone with sensitive skin or a history of eczema. However, if you follow the instructions, it can be an effective anti-aging treatment for most people.