Is it okay to use Retin A (tretinoin) on my arms or body?

Dr. Irwin
October 2, 2013
Hi doc, i use retin a to my underarm.. After peeling and redness my underarm became much more darker and increase of dark spots and patches.. Should i still continue using it? Is the dark spots and patches will go away by itself? Please help.

In general, please don’t try this unless specifically directed to by your doctor! Skin on the body is quite different than the skin on the face and is often much more easily irritated by Retin A and other retinoid creams.

 

Also, since these creams have the potential to irritate skin, especially if not used correctly, they can make pigment and brown spots worse. This is because many darker skin types, when irritated, will make more pigment, not less!!

 

Dr. I

 

Read Dr. Irwin’s article on Color and Texture Issues.

 

Learn more about Retin A by reading Skincare Terms & Ingredients.

Dr. Brandith Irwin, MD

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Hi, I’m Dr. Irwin. I believe that consumers deserve a medically trained and unbiased skin care advocate.

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