10 replies to this topic

[stwy85]

Appreciate some advise. At week 6 of using retin a, from week 1-5, everything was fine, no breakout, no effects. I started slowly too, from alternate nights gradually to everynight. Suddenly at week 6, having this breakout on my cheeks and forehead, lots of small pimples with whiteheads. Am I suppose to breakout at this stage? coz I heard that usually after 4 weeks, skin should be clearing already. Also my face is starting to get really red, and peeling a little too. I didn't experience any of these for the first 5 weeks. Any reason for this? Should I go back to alternate nights? Any other advise?

[cln]

Yes.....go back to the alternate nights and remember you only need less than a pea sized amount for your entire face. Retin a is a therapy and sometimes it take up to 12 weeks to see results. Power thru it, it's normal to get the initial breakout. Don't forget, you must wait 20 minutes after you wash your face before applying the retin a. And make sure you use a good moisturizer after you apply it. It's a worth while therapy. And the benefits are twofold.....less pimples and less wrinkles as you age.

[May853]

I wasn't told about starting gradually, and when I started using retinoids I just jumped right in. I think my IB lasted at least 6 weeks, and it probably started around the 3 week mark. I think 4 weeks is not long enough to see results anyway. LIke the above poster said, it's a long term treatment. I've been on it now 7 months and while I'm not 100% clear, the overall condition of my skin is better to me. Even if it doesn't completely rid me of acne, the other benefits are worth it to me to stay on it.

[stwy85]

thanks for the replies! wow 7 months and still not clear? that's really long. my derm did not tell me that i have to use it for life! oh well... it has been days, and the red bumps are still there. it's taking so long for them to go away!! arghhhh...anyway, it's nice to see words of encouragement, will try my best to push through.

Edited by stwy85, 18 November 2011 - 11:02 AM.

[May853]

Yes, keep in mind I also have hormonal acne for sure, but b/c of other issues cannot use hormonal treatments. There are people on this board who say they really saw improvement during the second 6 months of retinoid usage. So I am willing to stick it out. It is difficult and really trying when you're going through the IB, but hang in there - it does get better. Unfortunately with skin treatments, most all are a long-term solutions. Wouldn't it be nice if they just worked overnight?

[stwy85]

Update: the previous breakout I mentioned, it did cleared. But now I'm having another breakout!! The same small pimples. What's wrong with my skin?!

[May853]

Yes, my IB would cycle like that. I'd think it was getting better, and then be hit with another wave of zits. And they were teeny white head type pimples for me. Not so bad if there had only been a couple, but yeah, when they come on in such strong numbers, it really sucks. I feel for you. But it should pass at some point, the tough part is getting to that point. Hang in there!

[stwy85]

But the thing is I'm already at week 10!, and I keep breaking out, I don't know when it will stop. Before retin a I only have a few pimples, but now is more pimples with red marks.

[sasch12]

Going through the same thing with Ziana at week 10. Any improvements yet?

[stwy85]

UPDATE: At week 15, almost 4 months in. Not much improvements. still having the small breakout cycles. PIH have not faded, in fact the breakouts contributed to more PIHs, but small ones though. Was thinking of sticking it till the 6th month and than go back to my derm. But i'm thinking twice. what's the best time to decide to stop? 3 months, 6 months, a year? i don't want to end up with a face full of scars. it has already gotten worse compared to before i use retin a. anyone going through the same thing?

[sasch12]

I think if by month 4 the positives dont outweigh the negatives, go with your gut and switch as scars can often times be worse than the acne itself