Tretinoin (Retin-A) is one of the most effective ingredients in reducing signs of aging. You can’t go wrong with Retin-A for Wrinkles as it improves skin texture and tone and supports skin rejuvenation to minimize the signs of aging and keep skin youthful. Retin-A also helps fade dark spots and pigmentation, making your skin more radiant. Although tretinoin is quite effective, you need to be patient to see any visible results. This article explains why Retin-A should be a staple in your anti-aging skincare routine. Continue reading.
What is Retina-A or Tretinoin? How does it work on your skin?
Tretinoin or Retin-A belongs to the retinoid family (derived from vitamin A). Usually, retinoids are used topically to treat skin problems like acne, melasmae, psoriasis, etc. Tretinoin is the best-studied retinoid. It wasn’t until 1984 that tretinoin’s potential in treating photoaging was discovered. Researchers tested the effects of tretinoin on the skin of mice for 10 weeks and found that it increased collagen production and reduced wrinkles and fine lines. Tretinoin can also help treat and treat acne (1).
There are many scientific studies that support the effectiveness of tretinoin as an effective topical anti-aging medication. Let’s take a look.
Tretinoin for Anti-Aging Benefits: What Does the Research Say?
In a randomized, parallel, and double-blind study, participants used retinol and tretinoin on their skin for three months. After three months, a significant improvement in her wrinkles, photodamage and pigmentation was observed, with very mild side effects. The study concluded that while tretinoin may help improve wrinkles and other signs of aging, it can cause irritation such as redness and/or dryness, a common side effect of topical retinoids (2). Skin often takes time to adjust (also known as retinization) to retinol and retinoids, during which time these symptoms can occur. However, they eventually wear off.
Another double-blind study examined the effects of tretinoin on photoaged skin. The study found that daily use of tretinoin cream 0.5% not only increased collagen formation, but also improved skin texture and tone, and facilitated the development of new blood vessels (angiogenesis) (3).
While you can feel the effects of tretinoin on your skin after just a few weeks, you will see big changes in the long run. One study found that tretinoin improved clinical signs of photoaging in participants, but significant differences were observed after six months of continuous use of the cream. The study was then extended to six more months, with participants now using the cream one to three times a week. Results showed greater improvement in overall signs of photoaging (4).
Tretinoin is an effective anti-aging drug. However, you need to use it properly to get the most out of it.
How to use Tretinoin or Retin-A for signs of aging
Avoid taking tretinoin during the day. Always apply the cream in the evening before going to bed. This ensures your skin has time to absorb the drug and improves its effectiveness.
Avoid combining tretinoin with benzoyl peroxide. It is best not to use it along with other acid products such as salicylic acid, glycolic acid and vitamin C.
Clean your face before applying tretinoin or any other skin care product. If you are applying tretinoin with another skin care product, wait at least 15 minutes before applying tretinoin.
When used correctly, tretinoin improves cell renewal in your skin and slows the formation of lines and wrinkles. But you have to be patient.
How long does it take for tretinoin to work?
It will take several months before you see actual results.
A study examining the effect of tretinoin on the health of Caucasians concluded that tretinoin therapy should be continued for at least six months to detect visible changes in the skin. The subjects did not notice a significant difference in their skin in the first six months. However, after 12 months, new collagen fibers developed and the researchers observed an overall improvement in their skin (1).
In another study, researchers observed visible results as early as 84 days. They noted a significant improvement in supralabial folds, pigmentation, and nasolabial folds (laugh lines) (2).
Despite its impressive benefits, tretinoin can cause some side effects.
Side Effects of Tretinoin
Your skin needs some time to get used to retinoids. When you use tretinoin for the first time, the first side effects may appear, such as:
dryness of the skin
irritation
stinging feeling
itching
scaling
Light burning
Apply it gradually to your skin as it may cause skin sensitivity. Start with a routine twice a week and stick with it for the first two months. You can also talk to your doctor and get an idea of how to use it properly.
If you decide to have laser skin resurfacing treatment, avoid using tretinoin for at least a few weeks before and after treatment, as it can cause inflammation and side effects.
Things to consider before using tretinoin
If you’re considering facial treatments, like laser treatments or chemical peels, don’t forget to consult your doctor and let them know you’re using tretinoin-enriched skin care products. Tretinoin may interfere with other skin treatments, and your doctor may advise you to stop using it for a period of time before and after your facial.
Avoid taking tretinoin if you are pregnant.
Tretinoin and other retinoids exfoliate your skin and make it sensitive to the sun. Therefore, use sunscreen and try not to expose your skin to the sun for too long to prevent damage. Use sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and consider wearing a hat when outdoors.
If you’ve just introduced your skin to Retin-A and made it a part of your beauty routine, you may notice breakouts and minor skin irritation. Do not discontinue use as retinol and its derivatives usually clear skin before any results are seen. However, that shouldn’t stop you from using Retin A for wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, sun damage, fine lines, and other aging concerns. However, always start with a lower concentration. Consult a doctor to determine the correct strength of tretinoin for your skin and proper use. This helps prevent unwanted skin reactions and irritation and promotes optimal skin health.
