I started retin a around 3 weeks ago to help with my PIH and hormonal acne. First week I applied it once, second week I didn't apply it, and third week (this week) I've applied it twice.

Before starting retin a, the left side of my face was honestly my pride and joy because it was so clear compared to my right side - everytime I looked at it I was so happy because thank god I didn't at least fuck up one side of my face right?? After starting retin a, I'm getting these tiny red dots on my left cheek and I want to know if this is purging and if they'll go away without leaving PIH or if I should stop and talk to my derm ASAP. It was just two dots at first and now it's 4-5 on my cheek right below my eye and close to my nose.

I've read that when you start retin-a it's rare to break out in places you don't normally break out in and the breakouts should mainly be whiteheads. These don't seem to look like whiteheads and I rarely break out on my left cheek under my eye. I actually woke up crying today when I saw in the mirror all those little red dots on my left side and my derm is out of the office for Thanksgiving so I can't get help from anyone other than online.

Should I continue retin-a if this is just a purge or wait till december to see my derm? Please help me my left side being clear before was honestly the only hope I had for my skin - I feel like if it turns to shit as well I'm going to just give up on myself.