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

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July 11, 2009

Pros:

Easy skin regimen. Keep it simple and gentle as far as other products like soap, etc. I am so happy to see my skin looking more evenly toned and my old and new brown spots just peeling away! Helps zits heal faster, my face is almost clear!

Cons:

Expensive for me.(My lame insurance has an AGE limit for covering this medication. As if having acne at 36 is any less terrible!)
Initial flaking, peeling makes it hard to apply make up. I never had any discomfort with the peeling though!

I was in the middle of the worst break out ever because of Pro Active. Tretinoin saved my face, I swear by it! It also helps if you use it on those bumps on the backs of your arms.(karatosis pilaris)
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July 11, 2009

Pros:

-Smooths skin
-Noticeably lightens scars
-Good for blackheads and whiteheads.

Cons:

Dries out my skin, but I can deal with it. It did get a little worse before it started getting better, it wasn't that bad, but that's just me.
It takes a while for it to work, so you must stick with this if you plan on taking it.

I have been on Tretinoin (Retin-a) .1% for about 5 weeks now, and I have taken pictures every other day on sections of my face. I check them now and my face is less red than it use to be, and my acne scars have lightened a ton. I am very happy with the results and can't wait until i hit my 10th week mark to see the difference it has made for me. People, trust me, its worth it going through the redness that it gives you for only a week or two to see how much better and smoother your face will be in the end.
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July 9, 2009

Pros:

it makes your skin smoother

Cons:

your skin will increase in redness burn in sunlight

it may work
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July 6, 2009

Pros:

Smooths skin really really well. Takes care of the little bumps on my forehead. not so great for the big ones though.

Cons:

I feel like it makes my skin oily.

Works really well. I haven't had any peeling or redness.
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July 6, 2009

Pros:

-Clears up acne, reduces scars, makes skin smooth and soft due to fast cell turnover
-One tube lasts a long time (approx 3.5-4 months)
-You will see a quick initial improvement in the first week

Cons:

-Takes patience to see full results (8-12 weeks until noticeable improvement)
-Acne worsening period sucks around weeks 3-7 so be prepared.
-Extremely dry/flaky skin for the first month or so until body adjusts to product.

First of all if you have only been using this product for a few weeks and write a bad review- you are really missing out. Okay so it's a slow climb to improvement, but trust me STICK WITH THIS PRODUCT. It is supposed to worsen before it gets better (it even says it on the package) because it is a high cell turnover from Vitamin A- this brings all the bacteria to the surface of your skin. It is all worth it around weeks 8-12. My skin is acne free for once in my life. It is brighter and smoother and I don't have to be self conscious anymore. You only need a little dab every night. Your skin will dry out initially so be ready to pair it with a moisturizer and try not to wear makeup during that time (it will be pretty impossible to anyways). I have tried it all from proactiv to birth control etc. I LOVE THIS PRODUCT. It really has helped me get my confidence and great skin back. I don't even need to wear makeup!
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June 30, 2009

Pros:

The cream is affordable. It does clear problem pimples, but it does take a lot longer to dry and get rid of the pimple. Tretinoin works better on small white heads.

Cons:

The cream makes skin red and dry. It takes many weeks to see any results.

Tretinoin is a good product for mild acne and helps to clear the marks left behind after a breakout.
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June 26, 2009

Pros:

lightens complexion, clears up acne slowly, slowly but surely gets rid of acne scars, smothens complexion

Cons:

causes irritation and skin flaking

it really works well after REGULAR use, but the key is to continue using it.
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June 25, 2009

Pros:

inexpensive, effective

Cons:

dry skin, abrasive at first

Very effective after long use. I've been using Retin-A .025 for approximately 4 weeks now- the first 2-3 weeks were rough times, my face was terribly sore, irritated, very flaky.. However it has made such a difference now! Please stick with it, it will help!
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June 21, 2009

Pros:

Helped for about a month

Cons:

Died skin out a TON

Isnt worth it didnt work for me. Just made my face burn and itch.
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June 20, 2009

Pros:

Cleared acne, left a glowing tone, even tone, and if acne ever came back it would leave immediately.

Cons:

Blotchy skin intially, spots, and peeling skin

I dont remember my intial experience with skin peeling and having another break out situation; but, when I stopped using it (after 3 months) and allowed my skin to heal for a week it looked wonderful. Im actually having a bad case of acne again (which is light to moderate) and I am going to try it again and let you know what happens.
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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