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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May 19, 2007

Pros:

Effective. Easy to use. No cost.

Cons:

Sun sensitivity. Initial worsening of condition, which is virtually unbearable. Flaking of skin.

You think you were embarrassed before you got treatment? Wait til you have to keep using it while you watch your face turn into a disaster area. A few times I wouldn't even leave the house. If you can put up with that it is extremely effective but only if you keep using it.
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May 13, 2007

Pros:

Slightly helps, doesn't hurt the skin as much as other harsher treatments.

Cons:

Leaves skin feeling oily, doesn't help acne too much.

This didn't help me too much.
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May 6, 2007

Pros:

Evens skin tone

Cons:

Takes a long time, having to wait a period of time after washing

I've been using this product for about 5-6 weeks. I'm also on tetracycline. Even though I was using tetracycline I would still get some pimples and my skin looked dull. I started using the retin-a and it made my skin look more alive and not so dead. I do not have sensitive skin so I did not have any sensitivity, plus I'm outside everyday and I didn't get any burns from the sun. This stuff causes me to break out every few weeks but it's not terrible, I expect to see full results in a good 2-3 weeks!
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May 4, 2007

Pros:

Affordable (as a generic), appears to start working QUICKLY

Cons:

flaky, peeling skin (although I am way too aggressive with the amount I use. Oops), skin is a little red.

I had BEAUTIFUL, flawless skin and then my Dr. changed my birth control. I started breaking out like nuts (I went from Yasmin to a higher-dose pill) so she switched me back to a lower dose pill and put me on Retin-A to clear up what breakouts I had. I started using Retin-A a week ago and started peeling the first time I used it. I use it all over my face and probably used too much the first few nights. I started peeling in my 'trouble spots' first--my chin and forehead. Now I'm peeling in other areas- further up my cheeks, around my nose. I have been using a 2% Salicylic (sp?) face wash and a 2% toner as well...cut out the toner because it stung too bad and worsened the peeling. I also use an Alpha Hydroxy Acid scrub in the mornings. It's gentle, but helps get rid of some of the flaking. I'm going to switch to a gentler face wash like Cetaphyl, continue with the AHA scrub, and limit the amount I use.
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May 1, 2007

Pros:

Its a wonderful cream, using for Anti Aging,best cream ever used, good results though using for only 6 weeks.

Cons:

Costly but worth it.

I'm using Stieva A cream 0.1%,for the past two months as a Anti aging cream & found this product very good.My uneven skin tone, roughness,enlarged pores are diminishing.Now I've that natural glow on my face.I'm not using any make-up now. Till now not a single anti aging cream worked on my skin. I use it everyday at night before retiring,30 min.after washing my face with a good cleanser. Applying SPF 15 cream in the morning after washing my face.I never had acne problem,so I can not recommend for that reason bur definetly for Anti Aging.I'm 37 yrs.
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April 28, 2007

Pros:

Works like a charm! Nothing has been better for my skin.

Cons:

Insurance does not cover this (for me). So, the cost is high, $90. But, when I look at all my abandoned tubes of acne meds and anti-aging creams, I know I am saving money by using Retin-A.

Yes, Yes, Yes! This product works for me. I have mild acne and have used various products over the years. I finally asked my doc for some help and he prescribed this. My mother (now 63) used it years ago for acne and wrinkles and has BEAUTIFUL skin now. I think she still may use it off and on. My skin is smoother, clearer and more radiant. I can almost go without makeup. I did experience redness and peeling the first two weeks, but stuck with it. I will stick with this for years, I hope. BTW, I am 38 y.o. female.
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April 28, 2007

Pros:

After 6 weeks I started to see results. Stops breakouts.

Cons:

It takes a few weeks for the product to start working. If you put too much dryness and peeling of the face.

I never had Acne in high school, I was always clear until I went to college.Then, I started to breakout. I try a lot of over the counter stuff such as the OntheSpotNeutrogena but made it worse. Finally, I went to my doctor and he put me on Retin-A and after 6 weeks my breakouts stopped, but I still got marks from old acne. So I STARTED TO USE PROACTIVE REPAIRING CREAM during the morning after washing my face and at night the Retin-A and MY MARKS FROM OLD ACNE ARE STARTING TO DISSAPPEAR!!!
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April 11, 2007

Pros:

Working well only get a few spots....number of new ones decreasing over time. Skins looks great. Use only a small amount of Retin-A it works better than putting too much on.

Cons:

First month red, peeling, not nice, lots of spots.

It's all about determination if the skin gets too peely/red use once a day Retin A (0.025%)instead of twice till it settles down and if you have broken capillaries on your face DO NOT use it on them it will make it work. Use a good gentle cleanser CETAPHIL hard to find in the UK is definately the best i've used i got it on amazon. Retin-A is one of the best treatments i've used. My routine: AM: Wash with cetaphil then use Retin-A (0.025%) then apply gentle sunscreen
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April 11, 2007

Pros:

I notice that 2 red spots have 10-15% faded. Still wait and see further results.

Cons:

I have not experienced any peeling or exfoliation yet. Don't know why. I feel like my lips are dry.

I have just been on applying Retin-A for only 2 weeks on dermatologist's recommendation. A month from now, I'll give you guys another review on how much it works on scars. Luckily I am in Thailand where standard acne drugs and treatment prices are very reasonable.
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April 9, 2007

Pros:

None yet

Cons:

I think I'm breaking out a bit more

I did not break out like most teenagers, and as soon as I turned 18, I started getting little pimples here and there. Still, I do not have much to complain about. Based on your posts, it seems like folks have been using tretonin every night. I was told to use it every other night... I think I will stick with it because it seems to be the only product on the market left for me to try. Proactive did not to the job and over-the-counter products have failed as well. Also, my acne is not nearly severe enough to try accutane; my derm won't prescribe it for me.
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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