Retin-A Frequently Asked Questions

What is RETIN-A?

RETIN-A (tretinoin gel 0.1%) is proven to reduce the severity of acne vulgaris in effected patients. Seen most commonly in adolescents, but also seen in older patients as well, true acne involves the formation of comedones (large deep seeded pus filled pimples) that resolve slowly leaving behind a deep scar. RETIN-A can significantly reduce the severity of these lesions.

HOW DOES RETIN-A WORK?

Evidence suggests that RETIN-A acts primarily by modifying the abnormal keratinization (formation of the superficial layer of skin) located around hair follicles. Comedones (large deep seeded pus filled pimples) form in follicles with an excess of keratinized superficial skin cells. RETIN-A promotes the detachment of these excess cells and the enhanced shedding of these cells from the follicular base. Through this action, comedo contents are emptied and the formation of new comedones is significantly reduced.

HOW TO USE THIS MEDICATION:

Apply a thin layer to affected areas at bedtime. Use a gauze pad or cotton swab to apply the liquid. Wash your hands immediately after use. Using this medication more frequently or in excessive amounts does not improve the results, but may increase side effects. Avoid applying near the eyes, mouth, or open cuts since this medication can irritate sensitive skin. Acne may appear to worsen when the medication is first used; continue therapy. It may take three to six weeks before the full benefits of this medication are seen.

HOW EFFECTIVE IS RETIN-A?

In a number of different clinical studies RETIN-A was significantly superior to a control gel in decreasing comedo count. Taken together approximately 25% of patients achieved superior results with the use of this medication.

RETIN-A AND ROGAINE?

Yes, when applied topically to the scalp RETIN-A can induce hair regrowth and significantly augment the activity of ROGAINE.

It is postulated that this effect is due to increased absorption of ROGAINE through the scalp by an alteration of the stratum corneum (superficial layer) barrier. One study demonstrated that 0.05% RETIN-A tripled the absorption of ROGAINE locally over effected areas, when compared with a control drug.

CAN I USE COSMETICS IF I AM ALSO USING RETIN-A?

Cosmetics may be used, but clean skin thoroughly before applying RETIN-A.

What is the USE DURING PREGNANCY?

RETIN-A is applied to the skin. Usually, less than 10% of RETIN-A passes into the mother's bloodstream, and even less reaches the baby. Broken skin, using more than is needed on an area, or use on a large area will cause more of the RETIN-A to pass through the skin. In general, the less RETIN-A that is used on the mother's skin, the less likely there will be risks to the baby.

Several studies have tried to find out the effects of RETIN-A on pregnancy. These studies have not found that babies whose mothers used RETIN-A during pregnancy are any more likely to have birth defects than babies whose mothers did not use RETIN-A.

Nonetheless, it may be best to reserve RETIN-A use during pregnancy for only the most severe cases of Acne Vulgaris. Even then, it should be used with extreme caution.

What are the SIDE EFFECTS?

Immediately after applying, the skin may feel warm or mild stinging or redness may occur. Some peeling of the skin may occur. These effects should subside as your skin adjusts to the medication. If they persist or become bothersome, stop the medication. This medicine may also increase sun sensitivity. RETIN-A may also cause itchiness and scaling of the skin. This can sometimes be very extreme depending on the individual. Most people will experience some itching or scaling if too much RETIN-A is applied.

What Precautions should be taken?

This medication can increase sensitivity to sunlight, wind and cold. Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun and sunlamps. Wear protective clothing and use an effective sunscreen. This medication should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. It is not known if RETIN-A appears in breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding. Use mild soap when washing your face. Do not wash face excessively. Abrasive soaps, cleansers, medicated creams or lotions can increase skin irritation. Use other acne preparations with caution while using RETIN-A.

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