Retin A Tretinoin Facts
TRETINOIN is a naturally occurring form of vitamin A. It is used on the skin to treat mild to moderate acne.

Brand Names: Tretin-X, Stievaa, Rejuva-A Top, Tretinoin Emollient Topical, Retin-A, Retin A Micro Gel, Stie Vaa Forte, Vitinoin, Stie Vaa, Avita

All tretinoin products work by accelerating cell turnover rates, quickly exfoliating the skin and lowering the buildup of dead cells within the follicle. This process reduces the formation of comedones. Retin A also makes existing blackheads less sticky, causing the blockages to make their way to the surface of the skin to be expelled.

Like most acne medicines, Retin A takes time to be effective. It is probable that you will not see any change in the skin for 3 or more weeks, and you may need to allow several months for noticeable improvements to be seen.

Don't be alarmed as it is not uncommon for users to see a temporary worsening of acne breakouts. If you should experience a flare up, advise your doctor, but don't stop using your Retin-A unless or until your doctor advises.

Common Usage Directions:
Retin-A is used once per day, or once every other day, usually at bedtime. The skin should first be washed with a mild cleanser. Twenty or 30 minutes after cleansing, Retin-A is applied to affected areas. This wait time is important to ensure completely dry skin. Applying Retin-A while skin is even the slightest bit damp invites irritation.

Just a thin layer of Retin-A is needed to do the job. A pea-sized amount is enough for the entire face. Steer clear of the entire eye area. This delicate skin is easily irritated by Retin-A.

Also, avoid the area around the mouth, especially near the corners, the lips, and the creases around the nose. Use as little tretinoin as possible on the chin. These areas all have a tendency to become uncomfortably dry and flaky with Retin-A use.

Resist using more than is directed in an attempt to speed improvement of the skin. Unfortunately, doing so won't clear acne any faster but instead will leave you with skin that is painfully irritated. It's best to avoid temptation and follow your doctor's usage directions carefully.

Before Using Retin A Tretinoin This medicine is for external use only. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Gently wash your face with a mild, non-medicated soap before use. Pat the skin dry. Wait 20 to 30 minutes for your skin to dry before use in order to minimize the possibility of skin irritation. Apply enough medicine to cover the affected area and rub in gently. Avoid applying this medicine to your eyes, ears, nostrils, angles of the nose, and mouth. Do not use more often than your doctor or health care professional has recommended. Using too much of this medicine may irritate or increase the irritation of your skin, and will not give faster or better results.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 12 years of age for selected conditions, precautions do apply.