Please Can You Tell Me Your Views on Retin A and Toxicity ?

Retin-A (tretinoin) is quite safe and side effects can be minimized when properly used. Tretinoin cream works both in the epidermis and dermis to reverse the aging process in the skin. It stimulates the formation of new collagen, helping to restore thicker, healthier skin. Tretinoin cream decreases pigmentation and exfoliates and compacts the outermost layers of the skin. Tretinoin cream also increases circulation in the skin which causes the “rosy glow” that is associated with... more

There is very little systemic absorption of tretinoin even with regular use. The side effects are local, on the skin and those mostly include irritation and increased sun sensitivity. The symptoms and signs of excessive vitamin A (hypervitaminosis A) described in the first part of the article is due to the oral consumption of tretinoin, not topical appilcations. It's true we do not allow pregnant or nursing women to use Retin A or other topical retinoids, but that is... more