Cream "Retin-A" is an effective remedy for the treatment of acne and rejuvenation of the skin. Thanks to its use, you can achieve a powerful rejuvenating effect, much better than after using acid peels and laser correction. This remedy is the most effective for treating all forms of acne and eliminating the consequences of the rash. In addition, it helps get rid of pigmentation and freckles.
However, like any other drug, the cream has certain contraindications, which is why you should definitely study the instructions for use. "Retin-A" is suitable for almost any skin type, however, if there are contraindications, you need to consult a doctor and find analogues.
pharmachologic effect
When applied topically, penetrating through cellular structures, the hormonal complex stimulates the growth and renewal of epithelial cells, suppresses inflammation, and also prevents the spread of cells that form acne.
When treating open acne, Retin-A cream helps smooth the skin surface and eliminates signs of the inflammatory process. When treating closed blackheads, this remedy helps them open up and then heal without scarring.
In addition, it prevents the formation of acne, promotes hair growth, and also has a pronounced antitumor effect.
The therapeutic effect is achieved 6-7 weeks after the start of acne treatment, and the maximum positive result is observed 8-12 weeks after the first use.
What is the basis for the action of retina cream?
Penetrating into the structure of the skin, the gel induces the growth and rapid regeneration of epithelial cells, prevents the occurrence of inflammation, and most importantly, prevents acne from occurring and spreading. When applied topically, retin a cream helps straighten (even out) the skin surface and heal scars.
Stimulation of hair growth and antitumor effect is another area of practical application of this gel.
It should be understood that you cannot achieve an instant result from using retin cream, so you can expect a noticeable therapeutic effect only after 5-7 weeks of use. Maximum impact is observed after 9-13 weeks.
Indications for use
The main component of the cream is trans-retinoic acid - the most effective form of vitamin A. Tretinoin, which is part of the product, has been successfully used for a long time to treat acne, acne and many other problems with the skin of the face and body. In the last few years, Retin-A cream has been used to prevent and treat age spots, slow down the aging process, and smooth out wrinkles. The main indications for the use of this remedy are:
- acne and acne;
- deep wrinkles on the face;
- prevention of skin photoaging.
The active ingredient helps reduce the secretion of the sebaceous glands and also prevents the clogging of hair follicles in the pores of the skin, thereby preventing the formation of acne. In addition, it helps dissolve fatty plugs located in the pores and has a mild peeling effect. Regular use of the cream allows you to:
- prevent the appearance of new acne;
- cleanse and tighten pores;
- remove or reduce age spots;
- improve skin texture and tone;
- make the skin softer and more elastic.
However, it is worth remembering that in order to achieve pronounced results, you need to use the product for 6 months.
Main indications for the use of retin a cream
Prevention and treatment of acne and acne are the main indications for the use of retin a cream.
Also, most dermatologists and cosmetologists recommend this gel in the following cases:
- presence of pigment spots or wrinkles (medium or deep) on the face;
- prevention of new acne;
- cleansing/narrowing skin pores;
- improvement of skin structure and tone;
- giving the skin softness and elasticity.
To achieve tangible results (especially in terms of getting rid of wrinkles), you must use this product for at least 5 months.
Use during pregnancy
Retin-A cream is contraindicated for use during pregnancy, as it leads to early miscarriages. In the second and third trimester, the use of this drug can lead to disruption of the formation of fetal organs, in particular, it negatively affects the development of the nervous system, eye organs, muscle and bone structure. During the treatment period, breastfeeding should also be stopped.
After stopping treatment with this gel, you can plan a pregnancy no earlier than a year later. Due to the significant teratogenic effect, the manufacturer recommends that women use at least two types of contraceptives during the period of use of the drug.
Directions for use and dosage
According to the instructions for use, Retin-A cream is applied to the affected areas in a very thin layer once a day before bedtime, it is left on the skin for 6 hours, and then it must be washed off with running water. If necessary, the frequency of application of the product can be increased to 2 times a day.
People with dry and fair skin at the very beginning of treatment are allowed to leave the cream on the skin for no more than 30 minutes. The duration of use of the drug largely depends on the type of pathology. When treating acne, the therapeutic effect occurs after 2-3 weeks, and the best clinical result can be obtained after 3 months. It will take approximately 4-24 weeks to eliminate pigmentation and wrinkles.
For preventive purposes, you can apply the cream once a week after taking a warm bath. Treatment of warts begins with the use of the weakest concentration of the drug, and in the absence of the required clinical effect, the concentration increases.
When using the cream, you must strictly follow the dosage, since a large amount will only cause irritation, but will not speed up the result. Before applying it to the skin, you need to clean it with a mild detergent and dry it completely, so it is advisable to wait 20-30 minutes after washing. In addition, after washing off the product, you should not use moisturizers for 30-40 minutes.
Tretinonin increases the skin's sensitivity to sunlight, which is why it is necessary to use sunscreens with a protection level of at least SFP 30. Sunscreens are applied before going outside.
If after a few weeks the skin irritation does not decrease, it is advisable to stop using the gel or change its concentration to a lower one. In addition, you should definitely consult a dermatologist.
Application and dosage of the drug
According to the instructions for using retin cream, it must be applied in a thin layer once a day. The areas of skin affected by the rash are smeared with gel before bedtime for a period of at least 6 hours. For patients with dry, fair or hypersensitive skin, it is recommended to limit the time interval to 30 minutes. After that, the remnants of the unabsorbed drug are washed off with ordinary running water. In case of urgent need, this procedure can be increased up to 2 times a day.
The duration of use of the drug largely depends on the form of the patient’s pathology. In the case of acne, the recommended time interval is 3-4 weeks; It will take 4 to 24 weeks to get rid of wrinkles or age spots.
For preventive purposes, it is allowed to use the cream no more than once a week.
It must be remembered that excessive dosage of the gel will not contribute to productive treatment, but will only aggravate the situation, causing irritation.
Before using the drug, it is strictly recommended to clean the surface of the skin with a special washing lotion, after which you should let it dry and “breathe” for 15-20 minutes.
Contraindications for use
Before buying Retin-A cream, the price of which is quite high, you need to familiarize yourself with the contraindications for its use. The main contraindications include the following:
- acute inflammatory processes of the skin;
- wounds, burns;
- rectal diseases;
- pregnancy and breastfeeding;
- hypersensitivity to the components of the drug.
In addition, there are certain restrictions on the use of the cream. It is necessary to use the product under strict medical supervision in cases of intracranial hypertension, diabetes mellitus, leukocytosis, lack of reliable means of concentration in women of childbearing age, impaired liver function, renal failure, chronic intoxication. It is also prohibited to use the cream for people under 12 years of age and over 50 years of age.
Side effects
The active ingredient tretinoin has mixed reviews, and if used incorrectly, side effects may occur such as:
- formation of blisters and crusts;
- peeling of the skin;
- burning sensation;
- redness;
- swelling.
In some cases, pain, thinning of the skin, and allergic dermatitis may occur. There may also be hyperpigmentation of the skin, especially when the skin is exposed to sunlight.
Tretinoin cream 0.05% instructions for use
Indications for use
- Eliminates acne and prevents its further appearance.
- Smoothes wrinkles, including facial wrinkles.
- Tightens pores.
- Returns skin elasticity and healthy color.
- Normalizes the functioning of the sebaceous glands (eliminates oily sheen).
- Removes lumpiness.
- Fights pigmentation caused by exposure to ultraviolet radiation.
pharmachologic effect
The active ingredient Tretinoin promotes the rapid proliferation of basal cells - they are responsible for the constant change of layers of the skin and, as a result, its youth.
The upper dead cells begin to peel off intensively, and their place is taken by new ones - young and healthy. This explains the effect of smoothing out wrinkles - they are “overgrown” from the inside with new skin and gradually disappear. At the same time, the pores are cleaned and then narrowed, and the process of formation of blackheads and pimples is inhibited.
In addition, retinol prevents the destruction of collagen and elastin, the main building materials of the epidermis. It inhibits enzymes that destroy these proteins and also increases the production of hyaluronic acid. As a result, more moisture is retained in the skin cells, and it remains elastic longer.
Note! Peeling is a natural process, which thanks to the cream simply accelerates several times. Thanks to this, the outer, horny layer of the epidermis becomes thinner, and the deeper layers become thicker (as in youth).
How to take, course of administration and dosage
To get a good result and not damage the skin, you should adhere to the following rules:
- The cream is applied only to clean skin. Therefore, 15-20 minutes before the procedure, you should wash your face with cool water and pat your face dry with a towel or napkin.
- You should not take too much cream - this can also cause side effects. A pea-sized portion is enough. The cream is applied with a finger using pointed movements over the entire area of the face (except for the areas around the eyes and lips) and then gently rubbed. Important! If you missed one day of the course, again you do not need to use more cream. This will do nothing except increase the risk of skin irritation.
- Once you decide to buy Tretinoin cream, you will have to use sunscreen, even if you are not going to go outside. As an option, you can use BB cream.
- For the first 3-4 weeks, the cream is used 2-3 times a week in the evening, before bed. If the skin reacts normally to the drug, start using it 3 times a week (daily use can greatly dry out the epidermis). Leave it on the skin for 6 hours and then rinse off under cool running water.
- People with fair or thin skin should initially leave the cream on for about 25-30 minutes - otherwise irritation may occur. If everything is in order, the duration is gradually increased.
Advice! After 10-15 minutes, you can apply a high-quality moisturizer on top - this will reduce the likelihood of side effects, but also reduce the effect of Tretinoin. In the morning, you can also use a moisturizing serum (these products are selected individually). Ideally, you can apply moisturizers only 10 hours after using the cream.
The duration of the course depends on the complexity of the problem and skin type. Typically, the first improvements are noticeable after 2-3 months, and lasting changes – after 1-2 years.
Contraindications
The drug is categorically contraindicated for:
- Allergies to Tretinoin.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding. In addition, the cream should not be used by women planning to conceive in the coming months (up to 1 year) - in this case, you MUST consult a gynecologist.
- Cuperose. In this case, the vascular network may remain forever.
- Visiting a solarium or sunbathing. During treatment, contact with ultraviolet radiation should be kept to a minimum.
- Rosacea.
- Eczema.
- Infectious skin diseases in acute form..
- Mechanical damage to the skin (wounds, burns, even acne wounds).
Tanned or very dry skin is also a contraindication. DO NOT mix Tretinoin with preparations containing acids (for example, salicylic acid), peelings and scrubs, alcohol-containing cosmetics, soaps, essential oil extracts, and facial skin care products with fragrances.
Side effects
The cream can cause photosensitivity and, as a result, the appearance of age spots. It is for this reason that you should use creams with an SPF factor (at least 30).
Redness, peeling and irritation are temporary side effects. Burning or itching may also occur. In this case, the frequency of application is reduced for a while so that the skin gets used to it.
Storage conditions
At room temperature (not higher than +25C) in a dark place inaccessible to children.
special instructions
In the first week after using Retin-A gel, acne may worsen. It is contraindicated to use this remedy in combination with some other drugs, cosmetics and hygiene products, which is why you should first consult a dermatologist. Improper application of the cream can cause severe dryness and flaking of the skin.
Treated areas of skin must be protected from sunlight, artificial ultraviolet irradiation, cold and wind. When applying the product, special care must be taken to prevent it from coming into contact with mucous membranes. If this happens, you need to rinse them thoroughly with water.
Patients with tanning should begin treatment after it has subsided. A week after using the product, an increase in acne may be observed, which is associated with its effect on deep-seated acne that did not appear before the start of therapy.
Analogues of the drug
Since Retin-A has a fairly high price, you can choose analogues of this product. The cost of the product itself in Russian currency ranges from 1150 to 1600 rubles, depending on the concentration of the active substance. However, it is worth remembering that you can only purchase it abroad, since in the Russian Federation it is prohibited for sale in pharmacies.
An absolute analogue of the cream is “Lokacid”, which contains the active ingredient tretinoin. This remedy has a special effect on cellular metabolic processes. Retin-A cream and analogues of this product accelerate the maturation of skin cells that clog the ducts of the sebaceous glands in the hair follicles. Thanks to this, inflammatory processes are eliminated, and existing acne is much easier to treat and does not leave behind scars and scars.
Another analogue is Tretinoin cream, which contains the maximum amount of active ingredient. Reviews of Tretinoin from patients indicate that regular use of this product can improve the condition of the skin and remove wrinkles. This occurs due to the removal of keratinized particles of the upper layer of the skin, as well as increased blood circulation. However, you must take precautions as serious skin problems may arise. The cost of this product is 2,300 rubles and you can order it online.
Differin gel also contains retinoids, which helps restore youth and beauty to the skin, as well as get rid of acne. Renova cream is considered to be the closest in structure to vitamin A.
The drugs are designed for long-term use, therefore, before purchasing them, you should consult a dermatologist, since self-medication can be hazardous to health.
TRETINOIN INSTRUCTIONS
It is advisable that the use of tretinoin cream be according to the instructions and agreed with a skin specialist. To get the best results from tretinoin cream, you must use it correctly. We recommend that you follow your skin specialist's instructions exactly, and you can also refer to the advice in this manual.
Tretinoin usage pattern
It is important to know! These instructions for tretinoin cream are for general information only. Tretinoin cream is a means of prolonged use. You need to be committed to disciplined work on your skin. Use this medication for the prescribed number of days, without interruption, even if it seems to you that it is not working.
The remedy works gradually, and it may take up to 6-8 weeks before you see improvement. Get ready to work patiently on your skin. Tretinoin has helped thousands of people around the world solve their acne problem, which means it will help you too. Be patient.
The first few weeks of using the drug may cause some deterioration or exacerbation of acne, pimples and skin rashes. Continue use - this is a normal skin reaction, you need to be patient. If the exacerbation becomes serious (this happens in rare cases of special skin sensitivity), you can stop using it for several days. As soon as the skin calms down, you can resume the course.
A full course of tretinoin lasts 12 weeks. In order to gradually accustom the skin to the drug, it is recommended to use it according to the following scheme:
— First week: every other day;
- Second week: two days we apply - one day rest - two days we apply - one day rest;
— Third week: every day;
— Fourth week: every day;
- Fifth week - every day (you can gradually introduce an increased concentration every other day)
- Sixth week - every day (if the skin reacts well, you can completely switch to a higher concentration), etc.
A noticeable effect occurs already after 3-4 weeks of use. After 10-12 weeks you will not recognize your skin, and this effect will remain with you for a long time.
Important: this scheme is only a general recommendation, you need to focus on your skin type, if you feel excessive discomfort - do not move to the next stage of the scheme or roll it back - this is the basic rule. You need to monitor your skin and its reaction and act accordingly. Before use, consultation with a dermatologist is recommended.
The stimulating effect of a course of exposure to tretinoin on the skin can last up to six months after stopping use of the product. Regular courses of tretinoin use have a very beneficial effect on skin health and prevent its aging. It renews the deep layers of the dermis and restores damaged collagen chains, essentially slowing down skin aging.
For very fair-skinned people, as well as people with extremely dry and sensitive skin, it is recommended to apply Tretinoin for no more than half an hour at the initial stages of the course of use. Then a gradual increase in the duration of skin contact with the drug is allowed. In this matter, it is better for you to get the recommendation of a skin specialist.
Choosing the optimal concentration of tretinoin cream?
The higher the concentration of tretinoin, the higher its effect, but the risks of irritation and side effects increase (temporary redness, inflammation, dryness, peeling of the skin). The best option is to gradually increase the concentration.
0.025% is the lowest concentration of tretionin available. It is recommended for use for very sensitive, delicate, thin, dry skin, or when using tretinoin for the first time in principle. If you are not confident in the adaptive abilities of your skin, it is better to choose this concentration.
0.04% or 0.05% is the most common concentration of tretionin. It is recommended for use for normal to oily skin that is not prone to allergies.
0.1% is the maximum possible concentration of tretinoin. Gives the most effective and intense results from use. Previous concentrations may be preparatory to this one. This type of tretinoin is best used for skin that is already accustomed to tretinoin. Therefore, it is recommended to start using this substance in your skin care with lower concentrations.
By following the recommendations for use, you can minimize skin irritation during the adaptation period. For example, you can start with a concentration of 0.025% (or 0.05% depending on the condition of the skin), and gradually move to a higher concentration during the course, using it more often, starting from several times a week.
How quickly are the effects of using tretinoin noticeable?
The first 1-3 weeks (it varies from person to person) the process of skin adaptation is observed - visible deterioration of the condition, irritation, redness and peeling. A noticeable effect and improvement is usually noticeable within 3-4 weeks of use. Further improvements appear gradually and incrementally. A lasting, pronounced effect is usually achieved 8 to 10 weeks after the start of the course. By this time, positive irreversible changes are detected in the dermal matrix of the skin, restoring normal skin function.
How to apply tretinoin cream according to the instructions?
- It is advisable to store the drug in the refrigerator.
- Wash your hands before and after using tretinoin.
- Apply only once a day at night, before going to bed (IMPORTANT! in light, the drug loses most of its beneficial properties, retinol is destroyed in the light).
- Before applying, you need to wash your face with the mildest, children's pharmaceutical product, without any fragrances or effects. Preferably with a PH level of 5.5 (This product is sold in our Jovees store) / Put your usual washes aside during the course of Tretinoin - they can dry out the skin!
- After washing, pat your face with a towel, then it is very important to wait at least 5 minutes until the moisture from the skin evaporates and so that the skin has time to restore its protective fat barrier - this will greatly reduce the risk of side effects. After 5-10 minutes, you can apply tretinoin and go to bed. (IMPORTANT! Water prevents tretinoin from penetrating the skin; if applied to a freshly washed face, the effect of the product will be greatly reduced).
- The cream can be applied both to the entire face and locally to areas requiring treatment.
- To avoid side effects, it is not recommended to use any other cream on top of tretinoin and thereby mix the chemicals of different drugs in the skin, since Tretinoin cream itself is a very powerful product and has a total effect on the skin.
- You should apply a small amount (about the size of a large pea) of cream - too much cream will not add any effect, but will increase the likelihood of adverse reactions. More doesn't mean better. What is more important here is the regularity and duration of use. The cream is rubbed in with light movements. At the same time, it should immediately become invisible or, at a minimum, unnoticeable. If the cream peels off after it dries or is too noticeable on the skin, this is evidence that the dosage has been exceeded!
- Can be applied to the face, neck, décolleté, hands, etc. Avoid contact with mucous membranes, skin around the nostrils, and corners of the lips. Strictly do not apply to the skin of the lips and around the eyes!
- In the morning after waking up, wash your face with a mild, non-drying product and be sure to apply a nourishing face cream with at least SPF20 sun protection (very desirable, since even in winter the sun’s activity can be high).
- If the skin is very dry, then during the day you need to moisturize the skin with a neutral nourishing cream (such as Nivea, baby or Lipisz cream) and a spray with thermal water.
What should you absolutely avoid?
- Avoid the sun and tanning! During the course of treatment, be sure to use a cream with an SPF filter of at least 20 units (even in winter, if the sun goes out for several hours)! Strictly do not visit the solarium and do not sunbathe in the sun, do not use it before traveling to hot countries - otherwise severe allergies and skin pigmentation may begin!
- Avoid exposure to excessive wind or frost. The skin under the influence of tretinoin becomes very sensitive to any influence, and this can cause severe irritation.
- Masks, peelings, tonics, products with acids, any other medicinal products - nothing additional can be used during the entire period of treatment with Tretinoin, otherwise the skin can be overloaded and provoke a severe allergic reaction.
- Avoid frequent washing, scrubbing or rubbing the skin. Remember, acne and pimples are not caused by dirt. Excessively frequent and harsh cleansing/scrubbing of the skin can aggravate acne and pimples.
- The drug should absolutely not be used during pregnancy, and at the time of preparation for conception (3 months before) or lactation.
- Tretinoin should never be mixed with the following drugs:
- benzoyl peroxide,
- sulfur,
- salicylic, alpha-hydroxy acids and other types of acids,
- any abrasive agents, as well as drying or astringent skin products with essential oil extracts, alcohol, fragrances, soap, lauryl sulfate, etc.
These products may cause severe skin irritation if used in conjunction with tretinoin.
- Avoid getting tretinoin in your eyes or any mucous membranes—your mouth, nose, or lips. If it gets into any of these areas, rinse immediately with plenty of water.
- If you miss one or more days of use, under no circumstances should you use a double dose of tretinoin the next day! A larger amount of the drug will not speed up healing, but will only lead to unwanted side effects.
- It is strictly forbidden to use tretinoin on tanned, very dry, inflamed skin. Do not apply to open wounds, incl. acne wounds, ulcers and any other skin damage.
Side effects and skin adaptation phase
- If you do not violate the instructions for using tretinoin, then in the first 1-3 weeks (individually) of using tretinoin cream, your skin will go through an adaptation phase to the retinoid. The adaptation phase is expressed to varying degrees in everyone, depending on the individual characteristics of the skin. This phase is a process of getting used to the drug and is characterized by such phenomena as:
- redness, skin irritation,
- exacerbation of acne and inflammation,
- the effect of tightness, dryness, thinning,
- active peeling.
- Do not worry! This is a normal phase of the drug’s action and must be experienced. Do not interrupt the course of treatment! Over time, the skin develops tolerance to retinoic acid and the irritation effect gradually decreases and disappears - tretinoin normalizes the level of moisture in your skin.
- To reduce the severity of side effects, it is recommended to strictly follow the instructions for use and the recommendations of your dermatologist. If side effects become excessive, consult your doctor.
- It is recommended that you schedule your first use of tretinoin over the weekend to test how your skin reacts.
In what cases should use be discontinued?
If there is no severe allergic reaction, it is not recommended to interrupt the course, otherwise the effect of adaptation to tretinoin will be lost. This means that stopping use will likely result in you experiencing peeling, redness, and other side effects again.
If you miss one or more days, you should never use a double dose of tretinoin the next day!
Stop using the drug and get medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction to tretinoin: difficulty breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat, severe rash, chest tightness, severe burning or irritation of the treated skin, severe redness, blistering, or crusting at the application site. In most cases, these allergic reactions disappear after discontinuation of the drug. This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur.
According to statistics, contact allergies to topical tretinoin are quite rare. If you have questions about side effects, consult your dermatologist.
How often to use tretinoin after the end of the course?
At the end of the course, when your skin has become accustomed to it and no longer flakes, does not redden or dry out and looks healthier, you can switch to the maintenance program. Reducing the use of the drug to 2-3 times a week allows you to maintain the achieved effect.
Contraindications
Tretinoin should not be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and it is also undesirable to become pregnant within 3-4 months after completing the course of using the drug (drugs of the retinoid group have a teratogenic effect on the fetus, causing serious disorders of embryonic development)! For more detailed advice, consult a dermatologist.
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Based on materials from the instructions for tretinoin, as well as from various sources, including those translated from English.
This tretinoin instruction does not replace consultation with a specialist.
Reviews about the drug
Retin-A cream has a wide variety of reviews, as some patients note an excellent cosmetic effect, and some say that after a couple of weeks peeling and increased dryness of the skin may appear. This is a common problem that can be eliminated by regular use of moisturizers.
Cream "Retin-A" has very good reviews from specialists; dermatologists note the rapid healing of acne, as well as the elimination of pigmentation and the reduction of wrinkles. However, doctors say that good results can only be achieved with regular and long-term use of the product and subject to the rules for applying the cream. Consultation with a specialist is required, as the drug has many contraindications and can cause side effects.
