{"id":6152,"date":"2024-05-14T16:52:00","date_gmt":"2024-05-14T15:52:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/?p=6152"},"modified":"2024-05-20T16:23:42","modified_gmt":"2024-05-20T15:23:42","slug":"how-to-get-the-best-results-from-tretinoin","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/how-to-get-the-best-results-from-tretinoin\/","title":{"rendered":"How To Get The Best Results From Tretinoin"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1000\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/240509_Tretinoin.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6154\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>Link to share article here:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-social-links is-style-default is-layout-flex wp-block-social-links-is-layout-flex\"><li class=\"wp-social-link wp-social-link-facebook  wp-block-social-link\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/skinandmehq\/\" class=\"wp-block-social-link-anchor\"><svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.1\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><path d=\"M12 2C6.5 2 2 6.5 2 12c0 5 3.7 9.1 8.4 9.9v-7H7.9V12h2.5V9.8c0-2.5 1.5-3.9 3.8-3.9 1.1 0 2.2.2 2.2.2v2.5h-1.3c-1.2 0-1.6.8-1.6 1.6V12h2.8l-.4 2.9h-2.3v7C18.3 21.1 22 17 22 12c0-5.5-4.5-10-10-10z\"><\/path><\/svg><span class=\"wp-block-social-link-label screen-reader-text\">Facebook<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n<li class=\"wp-social-link wp-social-link-instagram  wp-block-social-link\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/skinandmehq\/\" class=\"wp-block-social-link-anchor\"><svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.1\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><path d=\"M12,4.622c2.403,0,2.688,0.009,3.637,0.052c0.877,0.04,1.354,0.187,1.671,0.31c0.42,0.163,0.72,0.358,1.035,0.673 c0.315,0.315,0.51,0.615,0.673,1.035c0.123,0.317,0.27,0.794,0.31,1.671c0.043,0.949,0.052,1.234,0.052,3.637 s-0.009,2.688-0.052,3.637c-0.04,0.877-0.187,1.354-0.31,1.671c-0.163,0.42-0.358,0.72-0.673,1.035 c-0.315,0.315-0.615,0.51-1.035,0.673c-0.317,0.123-0.794,0.27-1.671,0.31c-0.949,0.043-1.233,0.052-3.637,0.052 s-2.688-0.009-3.637-0.052c-0.877-0.04-1.354-0.187-1.671-0.31c-0.42-0.163-0.72-0.358-1.035-0.673 c-0.315-0.315-0.51-0.615-0.673-1.035c-0.123-0.317-0.27-0.794-0.31-1.671C4.631,14.688,4.622,14.403,4.622,12 s0.009-2.688,0.052-3.637c0.04-0.877,0.187-1.354,0.31-1.671c0.163-0.42,0.358-0.72,0.673-1.035 c0.315-0.315,0.615-0.51,1.035-0.673c0.317-0.123,0.794-0.27,1.671-0.31C9.312,4.631,9.597,4.622,12,4.622 M12,3 C9.556,3,9.249,3.01,8.289,3.054C7.331,3.098,6.677,3.25,6.105,3.472C5.513,3.702,5.011,4.01,4.511,4.511 c-0.5,0.5-0.808,1.002-1.038,1.594C3.25,6.677,3.098,7.331,3.054,8.289C3.01,9.249,3,9.556,3,12c0,2.444,0.01,2.751,0.054,3.711 c0.044,0.958,0.196,1.612,0.418,2.185c0.23,0.592,0.538,1.094,1.038,1.594c0.5,0.5,1.002,0.808,1.594,1.038 c0.572,0.222,1.227,0.375,2.185,0.418C9.249,20.99,9.556,21,12,21s2.751-0.01,3.711-0.054c0.958-0.044,1.612-0.196,2.185-0.418 c0.592-0.23,1.094-0.538,1.594-1.038c0.5-0.5,0.808-1.002,1.038-1.594c0.222-0.572,0.375-1.227,0.418-2.185 C20.99,14.751,21,14.444,21,12s-0.01-2.751-0.054-3.711c-0.044-0.958-0.196-1.612-0.418-2.185c-0.23-0.592-0.538-1.094-1.038-1.594 c-0.5-0.5-1.002-0.808-1.594-1.038c-0.572-0.222-1.227-0.375-2.185-0.418C14.751,3.01,14.444,3,12,3L12,3z M12,7.378 c-2.552,0-4.622,2.069-4.622,4.622S9.448,16.622,12,16.622s4.622-2.069,4.622-4.622S14.552,7.378,12,7.378z M12,15 c-1.657,0-3-1.343-3-3s1.343-3,3-3s3,1.343,3,3S13.657,15,12,15z M16.804,6.116c-0.596,0-1.08,0.484-1.08,1.08 s0.484,1.08,1.08,1.08c0.596,0,1.08-0.484,1.08-1.08S17.401,6.116,16.804,6.116z\"><\/path><\/svg><span class=\"wp-block-social-link-label screen-reader-text\">Instagram<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n<li class=\"wp-social-link wp-social-link-twitter  wp-block-social-link\"><a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/skinandmehq\" class=\"wp-block-social-link-anchor\"><svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.1\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><path d=\"M22.23,5.924c-0.736,0.326-1.527,0.547-2.357,0.646c0.847-0.508,1.498-1.312,1.804-2.27 c-0.793,0.47-1.671,0.812-2.606,0.996C18.324,4.498,17.257,4,16.077,4c-2.266,0-4.103,1.837-4.103,4.103 c0,0.322,0.036,0.635,0.106,0.935C8.67,8.867,5.647,7.234,3.623,4.751C3.27,5.357,3.067,6.062,3.067,6.814 c0,1.424,0.724,2.679,1.825,3.415c-0.673-0.021-1.305-0.206-1.859-0.513c0,0.017,0,0.034,0,0.052c0,1.988,1.414,3.647,3.292,4.023 c-0.344,0.094-0.707,0.144-1.081,0.144c-0.264,0-0.521-0.026-0.772-0.074c0.522,1.63,2.038,2.816,3.833,2.85 c-1.404,1.1-3.174,1.756-5.096,1.756c-0.331,0-0.658-0.019-0.979-0.057c1.816,1.164,3.973,1.843,6.29,1.843 c7.547,0,11.675-6.252,11.675-11.675c0-0.178-0.004-0.355-0.012-0.531C20.985,7.47,21.68,6.747,22.23,5.924z\"><\/path><\/svg><span class=\"wp-block-social-link-label screen-reader-text\">Twitter<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n<li class=\"wp-social-link wp-social-link-pinterest  wp-block-social-link\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pinterest.co.uk\/skinandmehq\/\" class=\"wp-block-social-link-anchor\"><svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.1\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><path d=\"M12.289,2C6.617,2,3.606,5.648,3.606,9.622c0,1.846,1.025,4.146,2.666,4.878c0.25,0.111,0.381,0.063,0.439-0.169 c0.044-0.175,0.267-1.029,0.365-1.428c0.032-0.128,0.017-0.237-0.091-0.362C6.445,11.911,6.01,10.75,6.01,9.668 c0-2.777,2.194-5.464,5.933-5.464c3.23,0,5.49,2.108,5.49,5.122c0,3.407-1.794,5.768-4.13,5.768c-1.291,0-2.257-1.021-1.948-2.277 c0.372-1.495,1.089-3.112,1.089-4.191c0-0.967-0.542-1.775-1.663-1.775c-1.319,0-2.379,1.309-2.379,3.059 c0,1.115,0.394,1.869,0.394,1.869s-1.302,5.279-1.54,6.261c-0.405,1.666,0.053,4.368,0.094,4.604 c0.021,0.126,0.167,0.169,0.25,0.063c0.129-0.165,1.699-2.419,2.142-4.051c0.158-0.59,0.817-2.995,0.817-2.995 c0.43,0.784,1.681,1.446,3.013,1.446c3.963,0,6.822-3.494,6.822-7.833C20.394,5.112,16.849,2,12.289,2\"><\/path><\/svg><span class=\"wp-block-social-link-label screen-reader-text\">Pinterest<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n<li class=\"wp-social-link wp-social-link-linkedin  wp-block-social-link\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/company\/skinandmehq\" class=\"wp-block-social-link-anchor\"><svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.1\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><path d=\"M19.7,3H4.3C3.582,3,3,3.582,3,4.3v15.4C3,20.418,3.582,21,4.3,21h15.4c0.718,0,1.3-0.582,1.3-1.3V4.3 C21,3.582,20.418,3,19.7,3z M8.339,18.338H5.667v-8.59h2.672V18.338z M7.004,8.574c-0.857,0-1.549-0.694-1.549-1.548 c0-0.855,0.691-1.548,1.549-1.548c0.854,0,1.547,0.694,1.547,1.548C8.551,7.881,7.858,8.574,7.004,8.574z M18.339,18.338h-2.669 v-4.177c0-0.996-0.017-2.278-1.387-2.278c-1.389,0-1.601,1.086-1.601,2.206v4.249h-2.667v-8.59h2.559v1.174h0.037 c0.356-0.675,1.227-1.387,2.526-1.387c2.703,0,3.203,1.779,3.203,4.092V18.338z\"><\/path><\/svg><span class=\"wp-block-social-link-label screen-reader-text\">LinkedIn<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n<li class=\"wp-social-link wp-social-link-tiktok  wp-block-social-link\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tiktok.com\/@skinandmehq\" class=\"wp-block-social-link-anchor\"><svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" viewBox=\"0 0 32 32\" version=\"1.1\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><path d=\"M16.708 0.027c1.745-0.027 3.48-0.011 5.213-0.027 0.105 2.041 0.839 4.12 2.333 5.563 1.491 1.479 3.6 2.156 5.652 2.385v5.369c-1.923-0.063-3.855-0.463-5.6-1.291-0.76-0.344-1.468-0.787-2.161-1.24-0.009 3.896 0.016 7.787-0.025 11.667-0.104 1.864-0.719 3.719-1.803 5.255-1.744 2.557-4.771 4.224-7.88 4.276-1.907 0.109-3.812-0.411-5.437-1.369-2.693-1.588-4.588-4.495-4.864-7.615-0.032-0.667-0.043-1.333-0.016-1.984 0.24-2.537 1.495-4.964 3.443-6.615 2.208-1.923 5.301-2.839 8.197-2.297 0.027 1.975-0.052 3.948-0.052 5.923-1.323-0.428-2.869-0.308-4.025 0.495-0.844 0.547-1.485 1.385-1.819 2.333-0.276 0.676-0.197 1.427-0.181 2.145 0.317 2.188 2.421 4.027 4.667 3.828 1.489-0.016 2.916-0.88 3.692-2.145 0.251-0.443 0.532-0.896 0.547-1.417 0.131-2.385 0.079-4.76 0.095-7.145 0.011-5.375-0.016-10.735 0.025-16.093z\" \/><\/svg><span class=\"wp-block-social-link-label screen-reader-text\">TikTok<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n<li class=\"wp-social-link wp-social-link-youtube  wp-block-social-link\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/c\/SkinandMeHQ\" class=\"wp-block-social-link-anchor\"><svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.1\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><path d=\"M21.8,8.001c0,0-0.195-1.378-0.795-1.985c-0.76-0.797-1.613-0.801-2.004-0.847c-2.799-0.202-6.997-0.202-6.997-0.202 h-0.009c0,0-4.198,0-6.997,0.202C4.608,5.216,3.756,5.22,2.995,6.016C2.395,6.623,2.2,8.001,2.2,8.001S2,9.62,2,11.238v1.517 c0,1.618,0.2,3.237,0.2,3.237s0.195,1.378,0.795,1.985c0.761,0.797,1.76,0.771,2.205,0.855c1.6,0.153,6.8,0.201,6.8,0.201 s4.203-0.006,7.001-0.209c0.391-0.047,1.243-0.051,2.004-0.847c0.6-0.607,0.795-1.985,0.795-1.985s0.2-1.618,0.2-3.237v-1.517 C22,9.62,21.8,8.001,21.8,8.001z M9.935,14.594l-0.001-5.62l5.404,2.82L9.935,14.594z\"><\/path><\/svg><span class=\"wp-block-social-link-label screen-reader-text\">YouTube<\/span><\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading\"><strong><strong><strong>How To Get The Best Results When Using Tretinoin&nbsp;<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p>There\u2019s a lot of talk about tretinoin \u2013 and, as interest in the prescription-only ingredient grows, there\u2019s also a lot of misinformation out there. Today we\u2019re here to sort fact from fiction, and explain everything you need to know about retinol\u2019s older, more powerful sibling.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>From how, when, where and more, our expert dermatology team is ready to reveal everything you ever wanted to know about using <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/tretinoin-101\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"3530\">tretinoin<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading\"><strong><strong><strong>What is tretinoin?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cTretinoin is a prescription-strength topical cream used to treat <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/the-skin-and-me-guide-to-acne\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"467\">acne<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/hyperpigmentation-101\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"4467\">hyperpigmentation<\/a>, sun damaged cells, fine lines and wrinkles,\u201d explains Dr Ben Esdaile, Consultant Dermatologist at Skin + Me. \u201cIt belongs to a family of synthetic and naturally-occurring compounds called <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/myth-buster-the-difference-between-retinol-and-retinoids\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"1954\">retinoids <\/a>that are all derived from Vitamin A.\u201d <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/myth-buster-the-difference-between-retinol-and-retinoids\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"1954\">Retinol <\/a>and retinal are two other members of the family you might have heard of before.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cTretinoin was first used in 1962, and has over 50 years of scientific evidence resulting from clinical use to support its efficacy,\u201d Dr Ben continues. \u201cTretinoin works directly on the retinoic acid receptors found on your skin cells, making it the most powerful retinoid available.\u201d&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading\"><strong><strong><strong>What is the difference between tretinoin and retinol?<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>As we mentioned, tretinoin and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/myth-buster-the-difference-between-retinol-and-retinoids\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"1954\">retinol <\/a>are members of the same family \u2013 however, there are a few key differences between the two.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cRetinol needs to be converted by enzymes in the skin into retinoic acid for it to have any beneficial effects. Tretinoin already is retinoic acid, so is far more potent than retinol and more effective,\u201d explains Dr Malvina Cunningham, Consultant Dermatologist at Skin + Me.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cIt&#8217;s also worth pointing out that <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/myth-buster-the-difference-between-retinol-and-retinoids\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"1954\">retinol <\/a>is extremely unstable and will often be degraded, even before it reaches your skin (a recent study looking at different retinol products showed alarmingly low amounts of retinol),\u201d Dr Malvina continues. \u201cPrescription tretinoin has to go through stringent testing to prove it has the correct amount of tretinoin in the product.\u201d&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading\"><strong><strong>What are the benefits of tretinoin?<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Tretinoin\u2019s growing popularity is down to its power and versatility \u2013 this ingredient is a gold standard treatment for several different skin concerns.&nbsp;<br><br>\u201cTretinoin works to accelerate <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/what-is-cellular-skincare\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"4757\">new skin cell growth<\/a>, speeding up the removal of dead cells and debris that can block pores,\u201d says Dr Ben. \u201cIt also works to repair sun-damaged cells and boosts the production of collagen, a protein that acts like scaffolding for your skin. Tretinoin is also used in the treatment of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/the-skin-and-me-guide-to-acne\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"467\">acne<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/ask-a-dermatologist-can-i-shrink-my-pores\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"3206\">visible pores<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/skin-ageing-101\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"3061\">fine lines and wrinkles<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/ask-a-dermatologist-how-can-i-even-out-my-skin-tone\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"5912\">texture <\/a>and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/hyperpigmentation-101\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"4467\">unwanted pigmentation<\/a>.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading\"><strong><strong>Is tretinoin safe to use?<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Tretinoin is very safe, but it\u2019s a prescription treatment, so you should only use it under the guidance of a medical professional.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cStudies have been done where people have used tretinoin regularly for between one and four years, and these have shown that clinical improvements (as well as improvements seen under a microscope from biopsies) are seen over long periods and these benefits increase over time,\u201d explains Dr Ben. \u201cThese studies have shown that consistent use for at least six months is needed to see best results and they also tell us that long-term use of tretinoin is safe, with no untoward effects.\u201d&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, if you\u2019re <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/how-to-treat-acne-during-pregnancy\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"6020\">pregnant<\/a>, breastfeeding or trying to conceive, you <strong>should not<\/strong> use <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/tretinoin-101\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"3530\">tretinoin <\/a>or any retinol creams, as they are not known to be safe for babies.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading\"><strong><strong>When should I use tretinoin?<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Tretinoin can increase the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/tretinoin-and-sun-exposure\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"5047\">photosensitivity<\/a> of your skin, meaning that it is more prone to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/ask-a-dermatologist-sun-protection-and-skin-cancer\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"3034\">sun damage<\/a>. For this reason you should only ever use <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/tretinoin-101\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"3530\">tretinoin <\/a>at night, and make sure you always wear a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/meet-skin-and-me-daily-defence-sunscreen-spf-50\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"4587\">broad spectrum sunscreen<\/a> with at least SPF 50 during the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading\"><strong><strong>How much tretinoin should I use?&nbsp;<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Always use tretinoin exactly in the way your doctor or prescriber tells you to. If you\u2019re using a tretinoin-only cream from a dermatologist or GP, there will be directions on the packaging explaining how much to use and how often.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>At Skin + Me, we formulate tretinoin treatments into our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/daily-doser-spotlight-2\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"1513\">Daily Doser<\/a>, which dispenses the perfect amount every single time. All you need to do is twist and click the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/daily-doser-spotlight-2\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"1513\">Daily Doser<\/a> \u2013 the concentration evolves as your skin adapts, while the quantity of cream stays the same.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading\"><strong><strong>Are there any side effects when using tretinoin?<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Tretinoin is safe to use, but it can take some time for your skin to adapt to the powerful ingredient when you first start using it.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cYou may experience peeling and irritation, including <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/dry-skin-101-dry-skin-causes-symptoms-and-treatment\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"2431\">dryness<\/a>, redness, burning and stinging,\u201d says Dr Malvina. \u201cThis is usually temporary and lasts while your skin is adjusting to all these changes that the retinoids are causing \u2013 a process that\u2019s been referred to as \u2018retinisation\u2019.\u201d&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If your skin is on the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/can-i-use-tretinoin-on-sensitive-skin\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"1108\">sensitive <\/a>side, you can start off by using your treatment just a few times a week, building up to alternate evenings and then every night once your skin has adjusted.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading\"><strong><strong>How should I apply tretinoin?<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/skincare-101-everything-you-need-to-know-about-cleansing\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"4863\">Cleanse<\/a> your skin to make sure your skin is clean and free from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/all-about-the-base-skincare-and-makeup-tips-for-the-party-season\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"1733\">makeup <\/a>and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/8-tips-for-using-sunscreen-on-holiday\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"4962\">sunscreen <\/a>before applying your tretinoin. Smooth it into your skin, taking care to avoid the delicate skin around your eyes and mouth.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re noticing some peeling or redness then you can use a technique called buffering. Apply some moisturiser to your skin and let it soak in before applying your tretinoin \u2013 this will ease some of the irritation.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Then, about ten minutes after applying tretinoin, you can seal it all in with your moisturiser. Consistency is key, so make sure your tretinoin becomes part of your regular routine, rather than an occasional afterthought.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading\"><strong><strong>Can I combine tretinoin with other skincare products?<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s best not to overload your skin, especially when you\u2019ve just started using tretinoin \u2013 we\u2019d recommend stripping back your routine to just four steps. Cleanse with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/skincare-101-everything-you-need-to-know-about-cleansing\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"4863\">cleanser<\/a>, treat with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/tretinoin-101\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"3530\">tretinoin<\/a>, hydrate with moisturiser and protect with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/meet-skin-and-me-daily-defence-sunscreen-spf-50\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"4587\">sunscreen<\/a>. You might want to start adding in other ingredients once your skin has adjusted, but we\u2019d recommend you <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/ask-a-dermatologist-mixing-active-ingredients-with-tretinoin\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"2528\">read our guide to mixing active ingredients with tretinoin<\/a> and speaking to your Dermatology Clinician first.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re using a Skin + Me Daily Doser including tretinoin, then your bespoke formulation might include other ingredients, like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/ingredient-deep-dive-azelaic-acid\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"1236\">azelaic acid<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/ingredient-deep-dive-niacinamide\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"3754\">niacinamide<\/a>, for a multi-active approach to your skin concerns.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading\"><strong><strong>Can I use tretinoin alongside cosmetic treatments?&nbsp;<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>You can use tretinoin alongside some <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/ask-a-dermatologist-combining-cosmetic-and-beauty-treatments-with-tretinoin\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"3265\">cosmetic treatments<\/a>, but you\u2019ll often need to pause your tretinoin treatment to give your skin a break before and after your cosmetic appointment. Dr Malvina offers a good rule of thumb. \u201cAny procedures performed should be discussed with the clinician or aesthetician performing them.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Depending on the type of treatment they\u2019re offering, they\u2019ll be able to advise and give their preference on when tretinoin treatment should be stopped.\u201d Bookmark our guide to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/ask-a-dermatologist-combining-cosmetic-and-beauty-treatments-with-tretinoin\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"3265\">aesthetic treatments and tretinoin<\/a> to give you an idea of the breaks you should take.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading\"><strong>Will my skin purge if I use tretinoin?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>You might have heard of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/how-to-progress-when-your-skin-is-purging\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"864\">purging <\/a>or even \u201cthe retinoid uglies\u201d, a tongue-in-cheek way of referring to the annoying spots that can pop up when you start using tretinoin.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/how-to-progress-when-your-skin-is-purging\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"864\">Skin purging<\/a> is when you experience a breakout or a worsening of existing acne in response to starting a new skin treatment,\u201d says Dr Ben. \u201cThis can be extremely frustrating when the treatment appears to be making your skin worse instead of better.\u201d&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, it\u2019s usually nothing to worry about \u2013 think of it as a spring clean for your skin, making way for new, healthy skin cells. \u201cIf this happens to you, don\u2019t panic \u2013 this is a normal process in the journey to clearing your skin and is known to occur in up to a quarter of people with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/the-skin-and-me-guide-to-acne\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"467\">acne<\/a>,\u201d Dr Ben says. If you need some reassurance, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/how-to-progress-when-your-skin-is-purging\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"864\">read our guide to purging here<\/a>, and if you\u2019re really worried about your skin you can always reach out to your prescriber for some extra reassurance.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"has-medium-font-size wp-block-heading\"><strong>Final thoughts<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Tretinoin is a powerful prescription ingredient and you\u2019ll get the best results if you use it consistently and with care. Check in with your prescriber if you have any questions, and check out our in-depth guides to using tretinoin below:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/tretinoin-and-sun-exposure\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"5047\">Can You Use Tretinoin In Summer?&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/ask-a-dermatologist-can-i-use-tretinoin-in-winter\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"1613\">Can You Use Tretinoin In Winter?&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/ask-a-dermatologist-combining-cosmetic-and-beauty-treatments-with-tretinoin\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"3265\">Combining Cosmetic And Beauty Treatments With Tretinoin<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/can-i-use-tretinoin-on-sensitive-skin\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"1108\">Using Tretinoin On Sensitive Skin<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/ask-a-dermatologist-mixing-active-ingredients-with-tretinoin\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"2528\">Mixing Active Ingredients with Tretinoin<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/skincare-101-exfoliation-and-tretinoin\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"5296\">Exfoliation And Tretinoin<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background\" style=\"background-color:#f0f6fb\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background\" style=\"background-color:#edf5f8\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background\" style=\"background-color:#f0f6fb\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><strong>New to Skin + Me? <\/strong>Get your first month of personalised skincare for \u00a34.99 with promo code DOSE \u2013 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/consultation\/sign-up\/create-account\">complete our quick consultation here<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Looking for a routine refresh? <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/login?back=%2Faccount-summary%2Fmanage-upcoming-orders\">Add the Dream Routine to your Skin + Me subscription<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>In need of a restock? <\/strong>Head to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/shop\">The Skincare Shop<\/a> for one-off purchases of your Routine Essentials.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Whether you\u2019re a tretinoin pro or just starting your skincare journey, here\u2019s what you need to know about using the powerful prescription retinoid safely. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":179265348,"featured_media":6154,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2196,1],"tags":[1424,1411,1517,1382,1362,1423,2432,2139],"class_list":["post-6152","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-ingredients","category-latest-articles","tag-active-ingredients","tag-dermatologist","tag-expert-advice","tag-skin-me","tag-skincare","tag-tretinoin","tag-tretinoin-and-sun-exposure","tag-tretinoin-purging"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6152","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/179265348"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=6152"}],"version-history":[{"count":11,"href":"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6152\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":6177,"href":"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6152\/revisions\/6177"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/6154"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=6152"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=6152"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.skinandme.com\/the-dose\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=6152"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}