Tretinoin

Tretinoin is used in the treatment of acne. It accelerates peeling of affected skin and clears the pores. The medication works out only to control acne, but not cure it completely. The medication is topical form of vitamin A. It is helpful to reduce pimple and blackhead formation, and it improves the appearance and texture of skin. Doctors may also prescribe the medication for other purposes that are not listed above.

Tretinoin is available in topical liquid, cream and gel form. You can use tretinoin once a day on daily basis before sleeping, or you can apply once every 2 or 3 days. Apply the medication as directed to you by your doctor and for more information, you can read instruction on the label. If you cannot understand the information then ask it from the pharmacist. In the beginning of treatment, it is possible that your acne becomes aggravated in the first 7 to 10 days, but you should keep using the medication until the acne disappears. It will take about 2 to 3 weeks. You should use other therapy to keep cleaning your skin.

Always use non-medicated cosmetics and avoid any other topical medications, especially benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid and dandruff shampoos containing sulfur. While applying the medication, first wash your hands and the affected skin thoroughly with mild soap, and then make your skin dried. You should use clean fingertips and gauze pad to apply the medication. Apply the medication evenly in order to cover the whole affected area.



Tell your doctor if you are allergic to tretinoin or any other drugs. If you are taking other prescription and nonprescription medications or vitamins then tell your doctor. If you are pregnant, planning to be pregnant, or if you are breast-feeding a baby then first discuss with your doctor before taking the medication. The medication may make you more sensitive to sunlight so you should wear sunscreen or other clothing when you are out in the sun.

If you take the medication once a day and if you miss a dose, then skip the missed dose and if you take the medication every 2 or 3 days then when you are 5 or 6 hours away from the next dose then take the missed dose and avoid taking double doses at the same time. If you suspect overdose then contact with your doctor immediately and get medical emergency help. Always try to avoid sunlight or artificial UV rays, because your skin becomes so sensitive and chances of sunburn increases. Don’t apply the medication on the skin that is sunburned, wind-burned, dry, chapped, or irritated. Your skin becomes more sensitive to extreme whether so you should avoid cold and wind.

If you experience the following side effects like shortness of breath, closing of your throat, swelling of your lips, face, or tongue, or hives, then get emergency medical help. If you experience burning, warmth, stinging, tingling, itching, redness, swelling, dryness, peeling, or irritation and if these side effects become bothersome, then contact with your doctor. While using the medication, if you observe any changes in the color of the skin, then contact with your doctor.