A derivative of vitamin A, tretinoin is the generic name for the acne medication Retin-A. It is a common element of acne treatment and can also help reduce fine wrinkles. In addition, it can be used to lighten dark spots caused due to sun damage. It is also known as retinoic acid and helps speed up cell turnover.
Tretinoin aids in quickly shedding dead skin cells and replacing them with younger ones. Moreover, it is known to stimulate collagen and elastin production. Continue reading to learn how tretinoin helps you with acne scars.
How Does Tretinoin Help Remove Acne Scars?
One of the primary functions of tretinoin is to treat acne, exfoliate the skin and promote new cell growth. Tretinoin skin cream helps with acne scars by regulating the speed of cell turnover. It irritates the skin causing the skin cells to divide and die rapidly. Ultimately, this helps increase the process of replacing dead skin cells with younger cells.
This process results in the prevention of ageing and reduction in the appearance of wrinkles and dark spots, sunburns and, more importantly, acne. Moreover, tretinoin gel uses as an antibiotic element prevents the growth of acne-causing bacteria.
How to Use Tretinoin Cream to Ease Acne?
When incorporating tretinoin into your skincare routine, it is always best to consult your dermatologist before experimenting. However, a few tips can help you get the best results when working with tretinoin.
Start by taking a tretinoin cream or gel with low amounts of tretinoin and then increase the dosage gradually in case you need it. Here is the procedure to apply tretinoin cream or gel to get the best possible results:
- Wash your skin with warm water. Make sure to completely dry it before applying acne medicine.
- Remember to wash your hands before applying cream to your face.
- Apply a pea size amount of the medication to cover the affected area lightly. Don’t make a thick layer of medication.
- With your fingertips, spread the medication to sensitive areas like lips, eyes, and nostrils.
- Let it absorb to get the best results. For better absorption, use the cream or gel at bedtime.
| Expert Tip Apply a water-based moisturiser before applying tretinoin instead of after to avoid dryness. You can also use it with hyaluronic acid which is known for its hydrating properties. |
What are Tretinoin Cream Benefits?
As already mentioned, tretinoin cream benefits in improving acne. However, many studies have brought forward other benefits of using it. They are:
- Tretinoin helps in reducing the frequency and severity of acne outbreaks.
- It also lessens the visibility of black patches and tiny wrinkles.
- Tretinoin benefits in clearing up existing acne.
- Moreover, it improves your skin texture.
- Since it helps fasten the process of cell turnover, it results in new cell growth and keeps the skin pores clear.
| Did You Know? It is advised not to wash your skin for at least 60 minutes after applying tretinoin. |
What are Tretinoin Side Effects?
Using tretinoin creams without the supervision of a dermatologist can cause some side effects. Although everyone may not experience all of them, a few could be discernible on your skin. So, before using this cream, perform a patch test. Here is the list of tretinoin side effects that a user can face:
- It may cause a burning or itching sensation.
- You might experience redness or peeling of your skin.
- It can also make your skin warm to the touch.
- It may also cause dry skin.
Avoid using this cream if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Also, don’t get in direct contact with sunlight after applying this cream. Always use sunscreen before moving out.
Conclusion
In conclusion, tretinoin, a retinol derivative, ensures acne-free skin as it can quickly replace skin cells and free your pores of any bacteria. This cream also has the potential advantage of preventing ageing, reducing fine lines and ultimately, giving your skin a younger look. However, there may be some side effects related to its application. So, always do a patch test before using tretinoin gel on your skin.
