Retin-A Q&A
77%
WORTH IT RATING
"Worth It Rating" shows the % of consumer reviewers
that stated the procedure was "Worth It" or not.
See more RealSelf Worth It Ratings
or Add Your Review

View Before and Afters
Average Retin-A Cost: $124
Learn about Retin-A
315 people and 124 doctors are talking about Retin-A
Get Free Email Updates
Can Retin-A 0.5% Cream and Depilatory Wax on the Face be Used at the Same Time?
asked 8 months ago by Rosa in Miami in Miami, FL
Latest answer by Anthony Perri, MD
Question viewed 218 times
Tags: contraindication, waxing
I am using retin a 0.5% cream for dark spots in face, today I use wax depilation in face and it is very red and hurts, what can I do?
2 answers to Can Retin-A 0.5% Cream and Depilatory Wax on the Face be Used at the Same Time?
+1
Retin A and Facial Hair Waxing
As Retin A can sensitize the skin in many patients, the addition of other irritants to the skin such as facial waxing or chemical peels may potentiate an irritant facial dermatitis. It is important to consult with a board certified dermatologist while on any topical retinoids so the addition of other topical agents can be monitored and managed appropriately.
Anthony Perri, MD
Houston Dermatologist
Houston Dermatologist
+1
Retin-A and Skin Sensitivity
Retin-A (tretinoin) is a great and useful cream but it has to be used carefully to reduce irritation. As you have learned the hard way, a depilatory (hair removal cream) can also be irritating to the skin.
For the next day or so, apply 1% hydrocortisone cream 3-4 times a day to the affected area. Also, keep the sun off the irritated skin. Otherwise it may abnormally darken.
In the future, don't put any Retin-A on the area where you plan to use the depilatory. Also, you may...
more
T. Wayne Day, MD
Nashville Dermatologic Surgeon
Nashville Dermatologic Surgeon