It is a retinoic acid that helps to reverse skin damage and is most commonly used as a treatment for acne.A doctor's prescription is required for many over-the-counter products that contain a derivative of retin-A.It is important to learn about the benefits and side effects of retin-A before using it.
Step 1: Understand what it is used for.
The product has been used to treat a number of skin disorders.Retin-A helps to remove dead skin cells.It can be useful in reducing the appearance ofwrinkles and skin damage due to sun exposure, but it can't cure them all.It has been shown that retin-A can be beneficial for the treatment of mild to moderate acne in teenagers and adults.Wrinkles can be diminished with extended use and increased strength of retin-A.Sun spots will lighten with continued use of retin-A.Studies show that retin-A improves the skin's appearance by smoothing or removing dead skin cells.
Step 2: Understand how retin-A works.
retinoids are a group of medications that impact the growth of skin cells.The growth patterns of skin cells can be changed by retin-A.Microcomedones are small plugs in the skin due to dead skin cells gathering inside the pore.Retin-A works to prevent the development of microcomedones from happening and can decrease the number and severity of pimples that do occur.The medication can speed up the healing of skin problems.There is a decrease in thestickiness of skin cells in sebaceous follicles and oil glands with the use of retin-A.
Step 3: You should consult a doctor.
If you think retin-A might be a good option for your skin problems, you should make an appointment with your primary health practitioners who can recommend you to a dermatologist.Dermatologists specialize in skin disorders.If it's an uncomplicated case, you may not need to see a doctor.Your doctor can choose the most appropriate treatment for you based on your symptoms and skin type.If you have or had other skin conditions, such as Eczema, be sure to inform your doctor.
Step 4: There are different types of retin-A.
There is a liquid, gel, and cream formula.If you have dry skin, the cream form of retin-A is the best option because it has less drying properties.There are different strengths of retin-A, the gel is 0.025% or 0.01%.The cream can be 0.1%, 0.05%, or 0.025%.The liquid was 0.05%.Your doctor will usually prescribe a lower strength to begin with.Side effects are one of the reasons for this graduation.
Step 5: You should be aware of potential side effects.
If you experience any of the following side effects, contact your doctor immediately.The majority of side effects occur during the first two to four weeks of use of retin-A.Itching, peeling, and scaling are the most common and scientifically documented side effects.
Step 6: Know the contraindications.
Since this medication is absorbed through the skin, pregnant women shouldn't use it since it can cause birth defects.If you are using retin-a to treat acne, don't use other products that may cause skin irritation.Do not use peeling products or products that contain peeling agents.
Step 7: There are instructions on the prescription.
Once every two to three days, retin-A is used.Use it at night for the best results.Make sure you confirm with your doctor and the pharmacy that you are using the correct dose and method.Do not hesitate to ask the doctor or pharmacist any questions.
Step 8: You should wash your hands and affected skin area.
You should wash your hands and face with soap and water.Use soap that doesn't have "microbeads" or other exfoliants.It's a good idea to dry your skin.Your skin needs to be completely dry.Wait 30 minutes before applying retin-a to make sure it is dry.
Step 9: You can apply the medication with your hands.
If you are using retin-A in liquid form, you could use a cotton pad.If you want to cover the entire area lightly, use about a pea-sized amount of Retin-A.The coverage should be thin and sparing.If you're applying it to a specific area, you don't need much more than a pea-sized amount.After application, wash your hands.Only apply the medication to the skin that is affected.Don't apply to your whole face or neck.Caution should be taken when applying retin-a.You don't want it to go under your eyes.flush with water if you get it in your eye.You can use clean water and flush for 10 to 20 minutes.Contact your doctor if irritation continues.When you're done applying, wash your hands thoroughly.It will help you not to transfer residual Retin-A to other people, on other parts of your skin, or accidentally rubbing into your eyes, all of which can be harmful.
Step 10: Use it consistently.
You need to use retin-A frequently in order to get the most benefits.Try to use it at the same time every night.It will make it part of your routine.When you have a blemish, retin-A won't work.A long-term remodeling of the skin is its action.During the first seven to 10 days, your skin may get worse, but it should get better after a few weeks.It can take up to 12 weeks to notice improvement.Don't double the dose or application.If you miss a dose, skip it completely.Don't double the dose.Don't use more Retin-A than the pea-sized amount, or apply it more than once a day.It won't improve your skin, but it will increase the likelihood of side effects.
Step 11: UV exposure is not advisable.
You can be more sensitive to the sun with retin-A.Sun exposure should be avoided as well as tanning booths and sunlamps.Sunburn or irritation can be prevented by using a sunscreen with at least SPF 30.When outdoors and in the sun, wear protective clothing such as a hat, long sleeves, and pants.Before using retin-a if you get a sunburn, wait until your skin has completely healed from the sunburn.
Step 12: If your skin gets too dry, use a moisturizer.
If your skin becomes too dry due to using retin-a, consult your doctor about which moisturizers to use.If you are using retin-a you should use water-based creams, gels or lotions.Oil-based creams and lotion are fine to use if you are using retin-A.After using retin-a, do not apply any creams or medications.
Step 13: Call your doctor.
If you experience any of the following, you should immediately get in touch with your doctor.