When you hear Retin A, chances are you think of a product developed and marketed for the treatment of acne in young adults rather than an anti-aging weapon. That is because Retin A`s was, in fact, initially prescribed to treat adolescent acne and has done so successfully for the past two decades. Recently, however, its benefits as an anti-aging treatment have been discovered and the original version of the product has been revised and perfected to reveal one of the most effective methods on the market.

How Does Retin A Work?

Retin A, more technically known as transretinoic acid, is a relative of Vitamin A and is one of few anti-aging treatments that continues to produce highly successful results in research studies. These studies have shown that Retin A, in even small doses, can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, increase the thickness of skin, and reveal a smoother, younger looking epidermis.

How does Retin A do this? Retin A works by activating cell changes in retinoid receptors which, in turn, bring about changes in cells responsible for collagen production, cell life and growth, and sebum production. Retin A also prevents and slows the overproduction of certain proteins that increase as we age and contribute to wrinkling and sagging skin.

What Can Retin A Do For You?

Retin A is offered only through prescription and is given in small doses that typically are increased over time, after skin grows accustomed to treatment. Full benefits of Retin A treatment are seen from six months to one year after using the product and include a reduction in fine lines and wrinkles, smoother texture, more even skin tone, and reduction of the appearance of sun spots and photodamage.

Because Retin A treatment can cause side effects such as temporary redness, irritation, and photosensitivity, doctors have recently developed more milder versions that reduce these side effects and allow patients to increase the strength of treatment over time. Patients will naturally be more susceptible to sun damage since the new surface of skin will be revealed and extra care must be taken to avoid sun exposure and protect skin with adequate sunscreeen.

The Retin A Regime

Retin A treatment will begin with cleansing of the face, then a gentle Retin A cream will be applied to the skin. Since Retin A is a powerful treatment, only a very small amount is needed. Your dermatologist will most likely instruct you to use a liberal amount of moisturizer twice a day, since Retin A, especially in the initial phases, can be very drying. In the first months of treatment, a red and mildly irritated appearance is normal. However, if it becomes bothersome, your doctor may reduce the strength of your Retin A regime. Most patients typically notice significant results within nine months.

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