Tretinoin cream 0.025%

Tretinoin is a synthetic form of vitamin A. Tretinoin stimulates cell growth and rapid exfoliation to reveal fresh, new skin. Tretinoin also decreases the buildup of dead cells that can clog pores.

Tretinoin should be used once a day, preferably as part of your bedtime routine. To use tretinoin cream, simply wash your hands and skin with a mild facial cleanser. To reduce irritation, be sure to allow your skin to dry for 20 to 30 minutes after washing. You only need to use a thin layer of tretinoin to reap the benefits. Using too much can cause excessive dryness and flaking. Avoid getting tretinoin in your eyes, ears, mouth, and nose. Tretinoin should be stored tightly closed, at room temperature, in its original container.

As with any prescription, you should discuss all of your medications, allergies, and treatment options with your Nurx provider before using tretinoin cream. If your skin is irritated or sunburned, you may need to allow your skin to heal before beginning treatment. Your Nurx provider can advise you on the proper time to start adding tretinoin to your skin care regimen.

Tretinoin cream can make your skin more sensitive to ultraviolet light. Using tretinoin at night lowers your risk of sun damage. During the daylight hours, protect your skin from sunburn and sun damage by wearing protective clothing, hats, and sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Avoid spending time in tanning beds and under sunlamps. If you get sunburned or your skin becomes extremely red or blistered, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Some tretinoin users experience new or increased sensitivity to extreme weather conditions, such as low temperatures or high winds. Wear protective clothing to stay comfortable during cold or windy weather.

When using tretinoin, your facial cleansers and cosmetics should be gentle, non-abrasive, and non-drying. Using a good moisturizer will help your skin stay supple and comfortable. If you are confused about which products to use, your Nurx provider can help you choose products that maximize the benefits of tretinoin cream and minimize unpleasant side effects.

Tretinoin should not be used by patients who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to conceive. If this applies to you, your provider may help you find an alternative treatment that is appropriate for you.

Like every topical retinoid, tretinoin use may cause side effects. Most of the side effects caused by tretinoin are mild and include drying, flaking, or peeling skin. You may also experience a mild, temporary stinging or warming sensation when applying tretinoin. Skin treated with tretinoin is more prone to sunburn and sun damage. Repeated use of tretinoin may also cause temporary lightening or darkening of the skin. Most people using tretinoin find that side effects lessen as their skin adjusts to treatment. If you find these side effects unpleasant, rest assured that they typically disappear when tretinoin is no longer used.

Although severe reactions are uncommon, possible serious side effects include itching, hives, and pain. These side effects are usually a result of an allergic reaction. If you are allergic to drugs that contain vitamin A (such as isotretinoin), you may be at higher risk for an allergic reaction.

Tretinoin is generally compatible with other medications. To prevent excessive dryness and irritation, avoid using facial cleansers, toners, and cosmetics that contain sulfur, salicylic acid, or resorcinol. Never combine tretinoin with products containing benzoyl peroxide, as they diminish tretinoin's effectiveness and can result in dryness.

Topical products that may interact with tretinoin include perm solutions, medicated cleansers, exfoliating soaps, alpha hydroxy acid, glycolic acid, and products that contain alcohol, lime, or menthol. Using these products with tretinoin can cause excessive redness, irritation, and peeling.

You should avoid using tretinoin if you are currently taking fluoroquinolones, tetracyclines, thiazide water pills, sulfa drugs, and phenothiazines. The combination of tretinoin and these drugs can increase your skin's sensitivity to sunlight.

Your Nurx provider can help you figure out which strength of tretinoin is best for you based on your symptoms and medical history.

Tretinoin increases your skin's production of collagen, which can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Because it speeds up cell turnover, tretinoin can make your skin look more youthful over time.

If breakouts have left you with uneven, bumpy skin and scars, tretinoin can help. Tretinoin helps flatten acne scars and lighten dark patches, making scars less noticeable. Tretinoin is most effective on newer, smaller acne scars.

If you are new to tretinoin, you may be surprised to experience more blemishes after using the product for three to six weeks. This is a normal part of the skin renewal process. Don't give up! Most people see a noticeable improvement in their skin after using tretinoin for six to 12 weeks.