How to use Retin A, retinoic acid, Renova, tretinoin creams, etc!
These are all retinoids (in the Vitamin A cousin category)! They all have the potential to cause some irritation, but true allergies are rare. Here’s how to use them to avoid the irritation:
- Wash your face, apply a moisturizer appropriate for your skin type and then let dry well for about 10 minutes. Wait longer if you are still getting irritated;
- Apply a small approximately pea-sized amount to the whole face – most people use too much;
- Always use at night because light inactivates it;
- Stay away from the eyelids, it’s okay to use up to the bone (orbital bone) around the eyes;
- Stay away from the corners of the mouth, lips (unless your doctor specifically wants you to use there for skin cancer reasons), and the base of the nose;
- Start slowly and build up. You can try using twice a week at first, then 3 times, and try to work up to nightly;
- Follow your doctor’s instructions or ask if there is a difference with these!!
These retinoid creams are STILL the gold standard and make a big difference over time!
Dr. I
See Dr. Irwin’s product recommendations for anti aging skin care.