Retin-A Gel (Tretinoin)

Indications

Retin-A gel is a prescription medicine used to treat the symptoms of acne and facial wrinkles. It contains the active ingredient tretinoin, which is used in the treatment of acne and, to a lesser extent, in the treatment of photo-damaged skin. Tretinoin belongs to a class of drugs called Acne Agents, Topical. Retin-A gel works by increasing skin cell turnover and reducing the formation of comedones (the primary hallmark of acne), which helps to improve the appearance of the skin over time.

Retin-A may be used alone or with other medications. It helps replace your old skin cells with new skin cells to prevent acne and pimples from forming. It is not known if Retin-A is safe and effective in children younger than 12 years of age.

Uses and Dosage

Retin-A gel is typically applied topically to the affected area, usually once daily before bedtime. Use Gel on the skin only. Do not apply to the inner lip area or inside the nose/mouth. Do not apply to cut, scraped, sunburned, or eczema-affected skin. Avoid getting this medication in your eyes. If this medication gets into your eyes, flush with large amounts of water. During the first few weeks of using tretinoin, your acne might appear worse because the medication is working on pimples forming inside the skin. It may take up to 8-12 weeks to notice the results from this medication.

To use Retin-A Gel (tretinoin) for the treatment of acne: Wash your hands before applying Retin-A Gel. Gently clean the affected skin with a mild or soap less cleanser and pat dry. Use your fingertips to apply a small amount of Retin-A Gel (about the size of a pea) in a thin layer, usually once daily at bedtime or as directed by your doctor. For some preparations, you should wait 20-30 minutes after cleaning your face before applying Gel. Consult the label directions, the Patient Information Leaflet, or your pharmacist if you have any questions.

Use it regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time each day. Do not use a larger amount or use it more frequently than recommended. Your skin will not improve any faster, and it will increase the risk of developing redness, peeling and pain.

Side effect

Common Side Effects of Retin-A Gel (Tretinoin):

• Burning, itching, stinging, scaling, or redness of the skin
• Chapping or slight peeling of the skin (mild)
• Color changes of treated skin
• Darkening skin
• Dry skin
• Redness of skin
• Sensitivity to sunlight
• Skin peeling or discomfort
• Sore throat
• Unusual dryness of skin
• Unusually warm skin
• Worsening of acne in the first few weeks of treatment

Serious Side Effects of Retin-A Gel (Tretinoin):

• Allergic reaction: itchy, red rash (hives); shortness of breath; chest tightness; swelling of lips, tongue, face, or eyes
• Severe burning, stinging, or irritation of treated skin
• Severe redness, swelling, blistering, peeling, or crusting
• Severe skin dryness

Form and Strength

Retin-A Gel (Tretinoin) is available in the following forms and strength:

Retin-A Gel: Gel

• 0.025%

Tretinoin: Gel

• 0.025%
• 0.05%
• 0.10%

Caution

• Tretinoin can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it is important to use sunscreen and avoid excessive exposure to the sun.
• Tretinoin can cause skin irritation, redness, peeling, and dryness. It is important to use the medication as directed and to talk to your healthcare provider if you experience any side effects.
• Tretinoin is not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as it may cause harm to the fetus or nursing infant.
• Tretinoin may interact with other medications, so it is important to inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking before starting treatment with retin-a gel.

• Avoid using other skin products that may cause irritation or dryness while using tretinoin, as this may increase the risk of side effects.
• Tretinoin may not be suitable for everyone, including those with eczema or a history of skin sensitivity.
• Tretinoin can take several weeks or even months to show the desired effects, and some people may not see any improvement at all.
• Overuse of tretinoin can cause skin damage and may increase the risk of side effects, so follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
• Limit exposure to extreme temperature, wind and cold weather while using tretinoin as it may increase skin irritation and dryness.
• Tretinoin is for external use only and should not be ingested.
• Some people may be allergic or sensitive to tretinoin, so inform your healthcare provider of any allergies or sensitivities you may have.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use tretinoin gel every day?

Tretinoin is safe to use every day, but using it often may cause irritation for some people. If you're finding that daily use of tretinoin is irritating your skin, you might try using it every other day or every couple of days until the skin adjusts.

Is tretinoin gel good for the face?

Tretinoin can be a safe, effective treatment option for acne. It can also help reduce the appearance of surface wrinkles and dark spots due to sun damage.

How many days should I apply tretinoin?

A physician will recommend you to use a pea-sized amount of topic tretinoin for the whole face once every three nights for 2-3 weeks or once a week if you experience uncommon effects. You will then be able to increase the frequency of use to every other night and eventually to every night.

Does tretinoin give you a glow?

Long-term use of tretinoin achieves and maintains your healthy, naturally glowing skin.

Resources

• https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-1192/retin-a-topical/details
• https://reference.medscape.com/drug/retin-a-renova-tretinoin-topical-343555
• https://www.drugs.com/cdi/retin-a-tretinoin-gel.html
• https://www.goodrx.com/retin-a/what-is
• https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/tretinoin-topical-route/precautions/drg-20066521?p=1
• https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/retin-a