Tretinoin is a naturally and organically occurring Vitamin A derivative, which is also widely known as all-trans-retinoic acid (ATRA). This retinol is an oxidation product in the mid-way of metabolism of vitamin A, exhibiting unthinkable properties of anti-inflammation, anti-oxidant, etc. Over the years, derma professionals have extensively recommended it to treat a broad spectrum of skin conditions, including aches and wrinkles. 

What is Tretinoin?

In the 1960s, James Fulton and Albert Kligman from the University of Pennsylvania developed Tretinoin Cream for treating acne, and, currently is part of the World Health Organization’s List of Essential Medicines. Available as a generic medicine, this retinoid is proficient and preferred for the treatment of both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne conditions. It has proven results in improving photo-aged skin with wrinkles, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation.

“In the realm of dermatological advancements, Tretinoin stands as a testament to our progress, offering profound benefits in skin rejuvenation and acne management.”

– Dr. Linda Thompson, Dermatologist and Clinical Investigator

This substance works by binding to two nuclear receptor families within keratinocytes: the retinoic acid receptors (RAR) and the retinoic X receptors (RXR), which normalizes keratinization and the inflammation of acne is minimized. This molecule of vitamin A has a diverse range of availability, such as ointment, gels, and creams for treating skin conditions like acne and pimples.

How long does it take for Tretinoin to work?

Acne treatment is not a sprint race but a marathon. It is a time-consuming and unhurried process that requires utmost care and unwavering patience, along with proficient medical guidance. In the treatment of acne or wrinkles, which incorporates Tretinoin 0.1 as the dominant ingredient, it should be known that it takes a few weeks to several months to bring about significant changes in skin texture. It entirely depends on individualistic conditions and the severity of the problem. 

The stubborn, painful bumps appearing on the skin can be very persistent and spread hastily. This sudden breakout can ruin the skin entirely, but with the guidance of a dermatologist, one can bravely fight the condition. The health practitioner will examine the affected person and decide the approximate time duration he may require to achieve smooth and healthy skin.

How do you use Tretinoin for best results?

There are specific tips and strategies one can use to enhance the efficacy of this formulation, such as, 

• Start slowly – When initiating the treatment, it is best to start with a lower and weak dose, which will irritate the skin less compared to a heavy dose. Let the skin have some time to adjust and adapt to the formulation. 
• Cleanse your skin – It is imperative and unavoidable to have clean and dirt-free skin in the affected area before the medicine is applied. Cleanse the skin and ensure it is scorched so that the medicine is absorbed adequately.
• Use small amount – Patient may have the misconception that applying a hefty amount of formulation will work in their favor, but that’s not the case here. Apply the medicine in a small yet sufficient amount. It is a mandatory condition to make sure the medicine is away from sensitive organs such as eyes, ears, nose, etc.  
• Moisturize – The patient can use the recommended moisture on the affected area to mitigate dryness and irritation caused by the medicine.
• Use sun protection – The photo-sensitivity may increase due to this formulation, so it is highly recommended to have a constant habit of using sunscreen to protect the skin from adverse reactions from harmful UV rays. 
• Be patient – The whole process of acne treatment is time-demanding and slow. One needs to showcase extreme patience to wait for the desired outcomes. Remember, patience is the key to success in this treatment. 
• Consult dermatologist – The affected person can consult a dermatologist for personal advice and recommendations based on the severity and condition of acne. This would help the patient plan the whole journey of his treatment and find ways to increase the efficacy of the medicines.

How to apply or use Tretinoin cream?

The application method and related guidelines are an imperative and unavoidable set of instructions that every Tretinoin user should know before stepping on the journey. This step-by-step guidance will act as a catalyst in the journey towards healthy and smooth skin. 

• To begin with, Wash your hands thoroughly before applying the Tretinoin.
• Ensure the affected area is clean and dry, as wet skin may irritate after application. 
• Once the skin is cleaned and prepared, apply the gel to the affected area according to the health provider’s directions. 
• Apply a thin layer of the medicine on acne skin before bedtime so that the skin gets an ample amount of time for absorption overnight, maximizing the efficacy of the medicine and resulting in optimal changes. 
• Ensure the formulation is away from sensitive areas like the eyes, nose, mouth, etc., as it can cause irritation and unbearable pain.
• After applying the medicine, wash your hands properly to remove residue that might have been left on your hands after application.
• The doctor will decide the frequency and duration of this treatment per the individual’s condition and skin. 

While using or applying this formulation, make sure you are not using any other medications that can interact with this one. If someone is using Botox and this medicine side by side, then they are very likely to experience some unwanted adverse reactions caused by them as they interact with one another. The same advice goes with Careprost, it is again a medication for eyes that interacts severely with this formulation of acne.

What are the results?

In every timeframe, some noticeable changes occur after the patient starts applying the formulation. Let’s break into different stages of the Tretinoin journey and shed light on the potent benefits of each stage. 

After two weeks

After methodical application of formulation for two weeks, the skin goes through “Retinization” – a process of skin adapting to transforming stages during retinol treatment. The diverse range of outcomes is briefed below;

Skin cell exfoliation –The outer layer of dead skin cells is replaced by fresh, young ones, which ameliorates skin tone and results in a smoother complexion. This procedure is famously known as exfoliation or desquamation. 

Dryness and irritation – As the skin adjusts to the formulation, it may have consequences like dryness or irritation of the skin in the applied area. Many users have experienced this temporary problem, but the skin will become familiar with the new adaptation with time. 

Stimulation of collagen production – One of the major benefits of this timeframe is the stimulation of collagen production. The formulation promotes the stimulation and enhancement of collagen, which is responsible for maintaining the firmness and elasticity of the skin. 

Reduction of oil production in the skin – The primary reason behind acne is an excess amount of natural oil which blocks the pores, resulting in painful bumps. But the formulation immediately works on reducing excess sebocyte cells inside sebaceous glands solely responsible for oil production. 

Activation of skin proteins and enzymes – For amplifying skin repair and skin rejuvenation, the crucial part is to activate skin proteins and enzymes. In the two weeks, the hidden gems of proteins and enzymes play a part in exemplar healthy skin. 

After 6 Week

This stage is room for improvements, amendments, and adjustments as the skin continues to adapt to the formulation. The list of significant changes noticeable in this stage is mentioned below;

Smoother skin texture – Frequent use till 6 weeks will eventually improve the skin texture, making it milky smooth. The surface of the skin will be much more refined, and the rough patches will decrease exponentially. 

Reduced acne breakouts – As the pores of the skin will be unblocked, the acne and its marks will be reduced. The reduction of acne and pimples can be noticed in this stage which is initiated from the very first day. 

Even skin tone – The uneven skin complexion due to acne marks or sunlight can be treated as the dead skin cells are exfoliated, so the hyperpigmented skin is lessened, and a more uniform complexion is promoted. 

Improved overall skin health – It is a lucid fact that new cells will enhance the overall skin quality and give a fresh and younger appearance. 

After 3 Month

This is a prominent stage where you can clearly differentiate and note the significant changes after diligently using the formulation for three months. The diverse range of outcomes is briefed below;

Considerable reduction of acne breakouts – There will be a huge salient difference in acne acne-affected areas as most of the acne and their scars would be eliminated and the skin would be clearer. 

Improved skin tone – The hyperpigmentation is mostly treated in this time duration, which in return gives out more uniform and lighter skin tone. 

Enhanced skin elasticity – As collagen production is enhanced and increased, the skin elasticity and firmness are improved along with more resilience. 

Refined pores– As the respected proteins and enzymes work upon skin repair, the skin texture and pores are smoothened as well, making them more refined. 

Reverse photodamage – Over the years, sun exposure impacts the skin adversely which is significantly improved by this formulation, promoting tan-free, wrinkle-free, and even toned skin. 

After one year

The continuous usage of Tretinoin for 12 months can bring out prominent changes and improvements. The significant changes and beneficiaries are mentioned below;

Reduction in wrinkles – The wrinkles and rough patches come with a lot of insecurities and self-doubts, but the properties in the medicine aid in the reduction of these fine lines and wrinkles. The continuous use of it can give a fresh and youthful appearance. 

Minimized acne scarring – This is the stage where the acne and its marks completely vanish from the skin, minimizing the condition and promoting healthy, acne-free skin. 

Enhanced skin firmness – With the help of collagen, the skin would turn nice and firm after regular use of the formulation. The firmness and elasticity will add more youthfulness to the applied area. 

Radiant skin tone – The condition of the skin would be magnificent and healthy. The radiance and glow will increase the skin quality and lift up overall personality and appearance.  

Tretinoin Before and After

Many users of Tretinoin portrayed the formulation in white light, stating they noticed significant changes and improvements after using it. They meticulously added that acne-prone and photo-aged skin lessens, resulting in smooth-textured, even-toned, healthy skin. After using the medicine, they prominently noticed a difference in their skin and shared their journey towards better skin and an uplifted appearance. 

The takeaway

Tretinoin is a prolific formulation that revolutionized dermatology science and uplifted the bar by treating skin conditions like acne, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. Dermatologists across the globe prescribe this extensively, making it one of the most essential medicines. The unthinkable properties of this formulation are proven to fight and improve skin issues and promote radiant and healthy skin texture. Every time frame in the total duration of treatment has particular peak beneficiaries whose outcome leads to desired and healthy skin.