Description
Tretinoin applied to the skin is a retinoid, licensed for acne vulgaris where there are blackheads, whiteheads and inflamed spots. It acts on the way skin cells are shed inside the pore, so blockages clear and fewer new ones form. It is applied as a thin film once daily in the evening to the whole affected area after washing and drying the skin, avoiding the eyes, lips, nostrils, and broken or sunburnt skin.
Dryness, redness, peeling and stinging are common in the first weeks, and acne can appear worse before it settles; a prescriber may suggest applying it every other day to begin with. Tretinoin increases sensitivity to sunlight, so use sun protection and avoid sunlamps. It must not be used in pregnancy or if you are trying to conceive, and effective contraception is expected during treatment.
Tell your prescriber if you use benzoyl peroxide or other peeling products, or if your skin becomes very sore.
- Topical retinoid applied to the skin for acne vulgaris
- Acts on blocked pores, reducing blackheads and whiteheads
- Apply a thin film once daily in the evening
- Dryness and peeling are common at first; skin may look worse before better
- Increases sensitivity to sunlight
- Must not be used in pregnancy or when trying to conceive
