Tretinoin is a true advancement in skin care. It is also known by the name of retinoic acid and is the first product that can penetrate the skin and help repair any damages caused to the skin by exposure to the sun. It is a form of retinoid which is a type of Vitamin A. It is also effective to remove fine lines and wrinkles. It is a non surgical method and needs to be continued to retain its benefits. As the face is the most exposed part of the body and sun damage, rashes and acne are more apparent on the face, tretinoin is generally prescribed for the face.

Tretinoin is available only by prescription and is a breakthrough in the treatment of photodamaged skin. For about a year the doctor may prescribe tretinoin to be taken every day at nighttime. After a year the interval may be increased to once every two or three days. As tretinoin makes the skin dry, application of moisturizer is advised two to three times a day. Another thing to be kept in mind is that use of tretinoin makes the skin sensitive to UV rays so the skin needs to be protected from the sun. This therapy is found to slow and even reverse minute changes linked with photodamage. Photodamage is a process that accumulates as a person grows older. After a period of time the doctor may reduce the amount of tretinoin prescribed, to give a young look.

Use of tretinoin may cause tingling, burning, peeling or redness of skin. Such reactions generally disappear over time and are tolerable. When used as directed by the doctor, tretinoin is safe to use. It can also be used during pregnancy. As in the gel form tretinoin is flammable therefore smoking should be avoided.

Certain care should be used while using tretinoin. Wash your face two to three times a day with a non soap cleanser like Cetaphil lotion. Pat the skin dry with a towel and let it dry for ten to fifteen minutes before applying tretinoin. A pea size drop of the medication should be enough for the entire face. Take care that the medication does not go into the eye. If you intend to get facial hair removed by waxing then stop tretinoin at least three to four weeks before the treatment as it may lead to a sore area which may heal with a brown spot. It takes time for the results to get noticed therefore tretinoin should be used patiently.

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