How to Use Retin A

PDF download Download Article
PDF download Download Article

Retin-A, or topical tretinoin, is a retinoic acid that helps to reverse skin damage and is most commonly used as a treatment for acne. Many over-the-counter products contain a derivative of Retin-A because Retin-A, itself, requires a prescription from a physician. It is important to educate yourself about Retin-A and its benefits, side effects, and method of application before using it.

Method 1
Method 1 of 2:

Learning About Retin-A

PDF download Download Article
  1. The product has proved to be beneficial for several skin disorders, particularly acne. Retin-A helps to unclogs pores and reduce skin peeling. It can also be useful in reduce the appearance of wrinkles and skin damage due to sun exposure; however, Retin-A cannot cure acne, reverse wrinkles or repair sun damage. [1]
    • Retin-A has long been recognized as beneficial for the treatment of mild to moderate acne, including blackheads, whiteheads, cysts and lesions in teenagers and adults. [2]
    • In addition, the appearance of wrinkles are greatly diminished (though they do not disappear) with extended use and increased strength of Retin-A. Darkened skin, also known as sun spots, will also lighten with continued use of Retin-A. [3]
    • Studies have further shown Retin-A improves the roughness of skin by smoothing or exfoliating the skin surface. [4]
  2. Retin-A (generic name: tretinoin) is a derivative of vitamin a and is a member of a group of medications called retinoids that impact the growth of skin cells. Retin-A works by changing the growth patterns and inter-cell attachments of skin cells. It inhibits the development of microcomedones, small plugs in the skin due to dead skin cells gathering inside the pore and clogging it. The development of microcomedones is typically recognized as a precursor to acne; thus, Retin-A works to prevent this from happening and can decrease the number and severity of pimples that do develop.
    • The medication also facilitates quicker healing of acne pimples. In addition, Retin-A decreases the “stickiness” of skin cells in sebaceous follicles or oil glands.
    Advertisement
  3. If you think Retin-A might be a good option for your skin problems, you should make an appointment with your primary health practitioner who can then recommend you to a dermatologist if needed. Dermatologists are physicians that specialize in the skin and in particular, skin disorders.
    • Primary care doctors can and often do prescribe Retin-A if its an uncomplicated case, so you may not need to see a dermatologist.
    • Your doctor will be able to choose to most appropriate treatment for you based on your symptoms and particular skin type. Be sure to notify your doctor of any other conditions and medical history, especially if you have or had other skin conditions, such as eczema. [5]
  4. Retin-A comes in a topical liquid, gel, and cream formula. Gels are generally better for acne because they have less emollient properties; however, gels can dry the skin, so if you have dry skin, the cream form of Retin-A is likely the best option. [6]
    • Retin-A comes in different medicated strengths, The gel is available as 0.025% or 0.01%. The cream comes as 0.1%, 0.05%, or 0.025%. The liquid comes as 0.05%. Your doctor will generally prescribe a lower strength to begin with and increase strength or dosage as needed. This graduation is to prevent side effects. [7]
  5. Mild side effects from using Retin-A are to expected; however, if any of the following side effects become severe, intolerable, or hinder your daily functioning, contact your doctor immediately. Note that most side effects occur during the first two to four weeks of use of Retin-A; in most cases, side effects decrease with continued use. The most common and scientifically documented side effects include: [8] [9]
    • Skin dryness
    • Blisters and redness of skin
    • Itching, peeling, and scaling
    • A warming or burning sensation
    • Initial increase in acne
  6. Since this medication is absorbed through the skin, pregnant women should not use Retin-A because it has been proven to be very teratogenic (can cause birth defects). [10]
    • If you are using Retin-A to treat acne, do not use other acne products while using Retin-A because they may increase skin irritation.
    • Avoid using peeling products or products that contain peeling agents such as benzoyl peroxide, resorcinol, salicylic acid, or sulfur or other acids. [11]
    7. Advertisement
Method 2
Method 2 of 2:

Applying Retin-A

PDF download Download Article
  1. Generally, Retin-A is used daily at bedtime, or once every two to three days. For best results, use it at night. [12] [13]
    • Make sure you confirm with your physician and the pharmacist as to the correct dosage as well as the appropriate method and frequency of use. Feel free to ask the doctor or pharmacist any questions you may have.
  2. Wash your hands and face thoroughly with mild soap and water. Try not to use abrasive soap or anything with "microbeads" or other exfoliants. Pat your skin dry. [14] [15]
    • Make sure your skin is completely dry. Wait 20 – 30 minutes before applying Retin-A to ensure it is dry.
  3. You could also use a cotton swab or cotton pad, especially if you are using Retin-A in liquid form. Use about a pea-sized amount of Retin-A (whether it be the liquid, gel or cream) or enough to cover the entire affected area lightly. The coverage should be thin and sparing, rather than slathered on the skin. In general, you shouldn't need much more than a pea-sized amount if you're applying it to a specific area. Wash your hands after application. [16]
    • Apply the medication to the affected skin only. Do not apply to your entire face and/or neck.
    • Take caution when applying Retin-A. You don't want it to get into the areas around your mouth and directly under eyes. If you do get it in your eye flush with water. Use clean lukewarm water, and flush for 10 to 20 minutes. If irritation persists contact your doctor.
    • Wash your hands thoroughly when you are done applying. This will help you avoid transferring residual Retin-A to other people, on other parts of your skin, or accidentally rubbing into your eyes or in your mouth, all of which can be harmful.
  4. It's important that you use Retin-A regularly in order to receive the most benefits from it. Try using it at the same time every evening. This will help make it part of your nightly routine. Retin-A won't work as a one time treatment when you have a pimple. Its action is a long-term remodeling of the skin. [17]
    • Note that your acne may worsen during the first seven to 10 days, but should improve in the first few weeks after continuous use. In some cases, it takes even eight to 12 weeks to notice improvement. [18]
    • Never double the dose or application. If you miss a dose and are using it every day, skip the missed dose completely. Do not double the dose. Similarly, don't apply more Retin-A than the pea-sized amount or use it more than once a day. This will not improve your skin, but only increase the likelihood of experiencing side effects. [19] [20]
  5. Retin-A can make you more sensitive to the sun. Take care to avoid prolonged sun exposure as well as things like tanning booths and sunlamps. Use a sunscreen daily of at least SPF 30 to prevent sunburn or irritation during the day. Wear protective clothing, like a hat, long sleeves, and pants, when outdoors and in the sun.
    • If you get a sunburn, wait until your skin has completely healed from the sunburn before using Retin-A. [21]
  6. Consult your doctor about which moisturizers to use if your skin does become too dry due to using Retin-A. Generally water-based moisturizing creams, gels or lotions work best if you are using Retin-A for acne. If using Retin-A for wrinkles or sunspots, oil-based creams and lotion are fine to use.
    • Do not apply any creams or topical medications until one hour after using Retin-A. [22]
  7. Note that most people do not experience serious side effects when using Retin-A; however, if you experience any of the following, you should get in touch with your doctor immediately: [23] [24]
    • Blistering, crusting, burning or swelling of the skin
    • Dizziness, headache, confusion, anxiety or depression
    • Drowsiness, slow speech or facial paralysis
    • Allergic reaction, including hives, swelling, difficulty breathing
    • If you become pregnant while using Retin-A
    8. Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    Do you need to use vitamin C cream with Retin-A?
    Mark Ziats, MD, PhD
    Internal Medicine Physician
    Dr. Mark Ziats is an Internal Medicine Physician, Scientist, Entrepreneur, and the Medical Director of xBiotech. With over five years of experience, he specializes in biotechnology, genomics, and medical devices. He earned a Doctor of Medicine degree from Baylor College of Medicine, a Ph.D. in Genetics from the University of Cambridge, and a BS in Biochemistry and Chemistry from Clemson University. He also completed the INNoVATE Program in Biotechnology Entrepreneurship at The Johns Hopkins University - Carey Business School. Dr. Ziats is board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine.
    Mark Ziats, MD, PhD
    Internal Medicine Physician
    Expert Answer
    No. Vitamin C cream has never been shown scientifically to have any effect on acne. Retin-A has.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 8 Helpful 20
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Video

      Tips

      • Not all people have acne that will respond well to Retin-A. If, after consistently applying for months, you do not see a result, you should consult with your doctor about other options. Ask for a referral to a dermatologist.
        Thanks
        Helpful 4 Not Helpful 1
      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Name
      Please provide your name and last initial
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
      Advertisement

      Warnings

      Advertisement

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Safely Pop Blackheads & Whiteheads with a Comedone Extractor
      The Best Ways to Get Rid of Pimples and Reduce Acne Fast
      What to Do After Removing a Pimple Patch (+ Tips for Next Time!)
      How to
      Treat Pimples with Fucidin
      How to
      Use Biore Pore Cleansing Strips
      How to
      Get Rid of Pimples Naturally (Sea Salt Method)
      How to
      Get Rid of Forehead Acne
      How to
      Use Tea Tree Oil for Acne
      How to
      Get Rid of Acne on Your Nose
      How to
      Get Rid of a Hard Pimple
      How to
      Make Your Own Pore Strips at Home
      How to
      Get Rid of a Pimple Using Toothpaste
      How to
      Reduce Sebum Production
      How to
      Treat Nodular Acne
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/meds/a682437.html
      2. ↑ http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/464026_3
      3. ↑ http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/464026_3
      4. ↑ http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/464026_3
      5. ↑ http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/meds/a682437.html
      6. ↑ http://www.drugs.com/pro/retin-a-cream-gel-liquid.html
      7. ↑ http://www.drugs.com/pro/retin-a-cream-gel-liquid.html
      8. ↑ http://reference.medscape.com/drug/retin-a-renova-tretinoin-topical-343555#4
      9. ↑ http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/meds/a682437.html
      1. ↑ http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/meds/a682437.html
      2. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/tretinoin-topical-route/precautions/drg-20066521
      3. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/tretinoin-topical-route/proper-use/drg-20066521
      4. ↑ http://www.drbaileyskincare.com/blog/use-retin-a-tretinoin-for-acne-anti-aging-skin-care/
      5. ↑ http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/meds/a682437.html
      6. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/tretinoin-topical-route/precautions/drg-20066521
      7. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/tretinoin-topical-route/precautions/drg-20066521
      8. ↑ https://www.nytimes.com/2006/11/30/fashion/30skin.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0
      9. ↑ http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/meds/a682437.html
      10. ↑ http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/meds/a682437.html
      11. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/tretinoin-topical-route/precautions/drg-20066521
      12. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/tretinoin-topical-route/precautions/drg-20066521
      13. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/tretinoin-topical-route/precautions/drg-20066521
      14. ↑ http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/meds/a682437.html#side-effects
      15. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/tretinoin-topical-route/side-effects/drg-20066521
      16. ↑ http://reference.medscape.com/drug/retin-a-renova-tretinoin-topical-343555#0

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      To use Retin-A, read the instructions that came with your prescription and your doctor's instructions for dosage. Next, wash your hands and face thoroughly with mild soap, pat your skin dry, and wait about 20-30 minutes before applying the medication. Then, squeeze a pea-sized amount of Retin-A onto your fingers or a cotton pad and apply a thin layer to the affected area. Remember to apply it sparingly and stick to your prescribed dosage, since Retin-A is quite strong and using too much can cause unpleasant side effects. For tips on protecting your skin when you're using Retin-A, read on!

      Did this summary help you?
      In other languages
      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 215,071 times.

      Reader Success Stories

      • Anonymous

        Aug 23, 2017

        "Letting my face dry 30 minutes before applying. Doc only said make sure skin is dry, good to know it should be 30 ..." more
      More reader stories Hide reader stories
      Share your story

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement