When will results with Retin-A Micro Regimen be visible?
I am new to Retin-A Micro and have read a lot of reviews about it and understand that it takes time to see results and that your skin will often look worse before it looks better. I am at my 3 week mark, and did experience purging (not too bad though) and am waiting for the great results that many see at 6 weeks. For those using Retin-A, when did you notice a great improvement?
For those that use it every other night, what do you use on your off nights? I know my skincare regimen has changed dramatically as I am no longer using any harsh products (with the exception of the aqua glycolic facial moisturizer on my off nights mixed with la roche posay's toleraine moisturizer). Any input would be greatly appreciated.
For note, I am only 21 years old and am on it for breakout purposes (although before I never broke out horribly to begin with, just when I happen to have had an appt with my derm). ***one last thing...everywhere I read it says "only a pea size amount should be necessary" but there is NO WAY that a "pea size" covers my whole face....
382 posts
28 Jun 2008
I completely understand where you're coming from. I had a similar experience (it was years ago, but I can still relate) with Retin-A. Out of the blue when I was around your age I started breaking out. I was one of those teenagers that never really did, so this was a surprise. I went to the dermatologist and was prescribed Retin-A. I used it faithfully as prescribed--heeding the warnings about its potential to dry out my skin and to, as you note, only use a pea-size. I used it daily, but I did not have success with Retin A. And it seemed an eternity before I finally said, "this isn't working". For me, one thing that ultimately balanced my skin out a bit and cleared things up was daily use of a 10%-12% alpha-hydroxy face cream (mine was a glycolic acid formula). I'd continue with the regimen for the fully-prescribed amount of time because that is a commonly heard aspect of Retin-A, that it takes time, sometimes up to that milestone "6 weeks". But if you are not seeing results, please get back to your dermatologist to discuss alternatives.
9 posts
30 Mar 2009
I've been using retin a micro for hyperpigmentation on my face. I actually did break out (which I never have, even as a teenager) but it didn't last long. The pea size amount is about right. If you look at a pea, they aren't as small as we think. I actually use a CHICK PEA sized amount. I put it on my left hand, and with my right hand, I use one finger to take alittle and spread it lightly. This seems to be the key, because, Retin A Micro doesn't need to be spread hard, because, it sort of disperses itself (spreads) after you put it on gently, if that makes any sense. I use it on my cheeks, jawline, nose and forehead. A chick-pea size....more like a pea and a half amount! La Roche Posay's Toleraine is a great product, and you may also want to use their Thermal Spring Water, as well. It's quite helpful. Also, be sure to use sunblock when you go out, Retin A Micro can give you a very bad burn, even in Spring Sun. I have noticed a difference in my skin. It is softer, smoother, plumper. I still do get some minor flaking, but in the morning, after washing my face with Dove (the Olive Oil Bar), I use my Sunblock (Mary Kay) and then a good moisturizer for dry skin, either Mary Kay or La Roche Posay. Best of Luck to you.