Tretinoin is a powerful and effective anti-aging and acne treatment medication derived from vitamin A. It works by boosting the production of new skin cells and the shedding of old cells, thus increasing your skin’s turnover rate. Tretinoin also promotes collagen production, which gives the skin a smoother, more even texture. However, tretinoin can cause mild skin irritation, so it is important to adjust your daily skincare regimen to accommodate it and get the most out of your treatment. Here are some tips for building a skincare routine with tretinoin:
Positive effects of tretinoin:
- Boosts skin cell turnover rate
- Promotes collagen production
- Improves skin pigmentation
- Effective in treating acne-related post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
Negative effects of tretinoin:
- Can cause mild skin irritation
Ingredients to avoid:
- Salicylic acid
- Benzoyl peroxide
- Vitamin C
- Glycolic acid
- Alcohol
- Fragrance
Ingredients that work well with tretinoin:
- Hyaluronic acid
- Glycerin
- Shea butter
- Peptides
- Antioxidants
- Amino acids
- Niacinamide
- Panthenol
Tips for using tretinoin in a skincare routine:
- Apply a thick layer of occlusive cream over the treatment
- Avoid anything irritating while your skin is getting used to tretinoin
- Use just twice a week to begin with and increase slowly
- Cleanse before applying tretinoin
- Use at night and apply tretinoin to a fully dry face
- Allow tretinoin to absorb before applying your moisturizer
It is also important to note that tretinoin plays well with others, but you should typically avoid active ingredients such as salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide during the adjustment period. If you are unsure about how to incorporate tretinoin into your skincare routine, it is best to consult with a healthcare provider or dermatologist.
