Tretinoin
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Tretinoin is a vitamin A derivative called a topical retinoid. It helps clear acne by promoting skin cell turnover.

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Tretinoin is a vitamin A derivative called a topical retinoid. It helps clear acne by promoting skin cell turnover.

Tretinoin is usually applied once a day around bedtime.

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3.5
1649
5
22.4%
4
33.8%
3
21.3%
2
13.9%
1
8.6%

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December 12, 2007

Pros:

Very effective for clearing up acne. Continue using it a couple of times a week after face is cleared up helps maintain the acne-free skin.

Cons:

Breakout gets worse initially and can make skin a little sensitive.

Great product! I've had acne since high school and used numerous products. Anything over the counter never worked for me. I've used Azealic acid before, it worked but it really stung and made my skin itchy and red. Tried Clindamycin and it worked but but doesn't help clear blackheads and whiteheads. Then my doc prescribed Retin-A micro to use at night and Benzaclin to use during the day. The regimen was wonderful. Although I've stopped using Benzaclin after my prescription ran out, I've continued using Retin-A for 2 years and my skin was beautiful and almost spot free. I stopped using it for 2 years after that and hadn't had much problems except for occassional pimple before my period. Now that my acne started acting up again I am picking up another tube of Retin-A Micro. Really make sure to continue the maintainence without break even after you skin clears. It's much easier to maintain your clear skithan having to start the treatment again when your acne comes back.
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December 8, 2007

Pros:

This product has such a smart way of working that no other product has

Cons:

There is definatly irratation at the beginning of treatment. Im am into my third week and my face has gotten used to it. Keep using it and make sure to read the instructions, note: it will get worse before it gets better.

It bugs me terrible when people say that they stopped because it made their acne worse because the instructions say that will happen. But then they(the instructions, READ THEM!) continue in encouraging you to keep using the product. Retin-A works on acne inside the skin and causes the skin to resurface itself quicker then before to create a thinner barrier. You do the math! If you dont exfoliate it will be peely! I have sensitive skin and im even using the .1%. I read the instructions carefully and i'm expecting results within 7 weeks not TWO! Most people misuse the product...............
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November 20, 2007

Pros:

Great for mild acne and oily skin!
Reduces Whiteheads and Blackheads quickly.

Cons:

Takes a month or two to work (Im right at 6 Weeks)
Have to wait 20-30 mins. after cleasing..

Contrary to what everyone is saying, your acne should clera up a little bit, then get a horrible breakout (Like me) within the 3-6 week mark. From 6-12 weeks, your skin should clear up alot, and after 12 weeks - WHALA! Perfect skin! This is definately for oily skin because its drying and clears out your pores.
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November 19, 2007

Pros:

Affordable, easy to apply, not time consuming

Cons:

drying at first, can make skin worse before it get s better

I have spent major $$$ on laser treatments, blue light therapy, peels, antibiotics...you name it I have used it. I have been using this cream for the last two weeks and have seen dramatic improvement in the acne around my chin/jaw line which is where I always get it. The cream was drying at first and my skin was peeling, but I stuck with it and into my second week, the area looks excellent. The drying is now minimal, redness is gone and my skin looks smooth and has a bit of a glow. I have begun using the cream on non affected areas and have seen results almost right away. Out of all of the many treatments I have used this one is fantastic and I wish I had used it in the first place. Affordable, easy to use and low maintenance, it provides topical acne therapy and a wrinkle fighter all in one. Make sure you start with the low percentage and slowly build your way up.
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November 15, 2007

Pros:

This will make unattractive skin beautiful. It's an absolute miracle

Cons:

If used incorrectly, you resemble an alligator and suffer.

Wait 1/2 hour after washing your face to apply a tiny pea sized amount of retin-a mixed with a moisturizer - mixing it will make the small amount cover your whole face. If there's any moisture left in/on your skin from washing, it causes more irritation, skin must be totally dry. Start slowly, every three days, then every two, then every day. If you do it right you'll have almost no side effects. The cream is better than the gel for mixing with a lotion.
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November 6, 2007

Pros:

Easy to use w/ tremendous results! Results for me were unbelievable... Very soft skin and ZERO breakouts after over 6 years of acne that wouldn't quit!

Cons:

Stings upon initial use. Acne gets worse before it gets better, but trust that your skin WILL improve. The final results are more than worth it.

I am a 26 y/o woman who never had a single pimple in high school. For the past 6 years, however, I have suffered w/ moderate cystic acne. I tried everything... Proactiv, Murad, Minocycline, and several other topical acne medications. NOTHING WORKED! The acne was effecting my self esteem- I found a new dermatologist who prescribed me w/ Bactrim and Retin-A Micro... the results are amazing. After 2 months I have clear skin for the first time in over 5 years. I swear by this product- I love the way it makes my skin look and feel. Initially the cream caused a burning sensation and slight peeling of the skin. I recommend Origins 'Checks & Balances' face wash and a good moisturizer. I only use the Retin-A at night and normally put a bit of moisturizer on my face before the gel, which minimizes irritation. Bottom line- this product is a MIRACLE!!!!
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October 11, 2007

Pros:

ive been using tretionin for almost 6 months and i've noticed a huuuuge difference in my skin. At first my acne got worse and i got red bumps on my face and it also became flaky and After 3 months my acne started clearing up and my scars faded

Cons:

it get worse before it gets better and it takes time.

...be patient! its definitely worth the wait..youre pored get smaller, scars fade and acne completely dissapears! It also speeds up the turning over of cells which prevents wrinkles and minimizes fine lines!
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September 25, 2007

Pros:

evened skin tone, prevents wrinkles, cheap with insurance, easy to use.

Cons:

it TAKES time and demands our patience.

This is my second review about Tretinoin and I feel that people who haven't used this product for at least 4-6 months should not write anything on Retin A. It takes time and beggs for our patience, but it is worth it. It is also important that we don't use any other irritating products along with Retin A as it will make things worse. One time I exfoliated my skin and the next day I had major breakouts. My doc told me not to use anything else with Retin A as it is doing its job slowly but surely. I use a gentle cleanser (Cetaphil) twice daily and use a good quality sunblock year round and I am happy to say that my skin is now clear and glowing. I had to force myself to stop fretting over my bumps and put my energy somewhere else and one day I woke up with clear skin. Obsession and impatience will aggravate acne. We live in a time where we want instant gratification and this attitude doesn't work with Retin A. Obsess less, be patient, be gentle and one day you'll wake up with clear skin.
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September 18, 2007

Pros:

Works great.

Cons:

Takes a very long time to become effective. Plus it worsens acne for the first few weeks very badly.

Please note... this is for Retin-A Micro. That works amazingly good. I got one tube ($250 for 45 grams!!!! :O ), which I used for about 3 months, and then my insurance decided to stop covering it. I switched to the generic stuff, which doesn't work as well. (My cost was only $7 a month because the copay was $20 on this prescription)
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August 31, 2007

Pros:

clears acne

Cons:

irritates,red skin, hurts,peels but only for like the 1st 3 weeks.

im already on my 10th week and i stopped breaking out on my 8th week even tho the 8th week i had the nastiest break out of all. now my skin is free of acne, but what it did left me are some acne scars from the breakouts it gave me and on my forehead some scars that look like little holes from blackheads or sumthing anyone else had that?? and how long does it take to fade this scars i hate them so much im misserable.. can anyone tell me how many weeks more for those scars to fade??? plzz thanks
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Finding a Doctor

The right dermatologist can make a big difference to your patient experience and the success of your acne treatment plan. Here are the steps to find a dermatologist who is a good fit:

  1. Use the search feature on the American Academy of Dermatology website to look for board-certified dermatologists in your area, and filter the search results for doctors with a special interest in treating acne.
  2. Read online patient reviews of any dermatologists you are considering and ask people you know whether they have any experience with these dermatologists.
  3. Do your research and go to your first appointment with questions prepared.
  4. Listen to what your gut feeling tells you once you see a dermatologist in person. If you are not completely comfortable, try a different dermatologist.
Find a Doctor Using The American Acacemy of Dermatology Website

Finding a Doctor

Only a select few plastic surgeons specialize in acne scar revision surgery. Be certain to find a provider who specializes in acne scar repair and who is passionate and experienced in this area.

Be sure to:

  • Look at before and after photos, the more the better, especially patients with similar scarring to your own.
  • Be realistic about results. Look for improvement, not a cure.

Questions to ask a potential scar revision specialist:

  • Are you board certified? Be certain that they are board certified.
  • How long have you been performing these procedures? Normally, the more experience the better, however, some younger surgeons may be more on top of the latest procedures.
  • Can I speak to some of your other patients? Ask for references for several patients who had similar scarring and speak to them about the process and their satisfaction with results.

Red flags:

  • Their story changes: As you discuss different treatment options, if they tend to change their mind easily, or agree with whatever you say, consider this a red flag. A confident, experienced surgeon will possess strong, unwavering opinions.
  • Your gut tells you "no": Trust your gut. If you just don't feel that the doctor is the right fit, trust that and move on. On the other hand, if you feel they are the perfect specialist for you, trust that feeling.
Find a Doctor Using the American Society of Plastic Surgeons Website