Tretinoin 0.025 and larger pores? (Photo)

Question

Hi doctors. I am 34 years old and have just started using tretinoid cream 0.025. I have started using the cream a week ago every other night. I know still too early to see any changes, but I noticed pores on Apple of my cheeks are more visible and large, no dryness or peeling yet. Is this a side effect of the cream? Should I continue to use it or stop using it?

Kevin Cavanaugh, MD · Answer

Hi and thank you for sharing your experience with starting tretinoin. The main side effects of tretinoin are dryness/ scaling and redness, particularly in the areas of the face where the skin is the thinnest (around the eyes) and in the creases (corners of the mouth and nose). You are on a relatively low potency strength of tretinoin, but even with a low percentage some people can exhibit sensitivity. If you are applying the medicine on damp or wet skin this can increase the absorption and cause more sensitivity. I always recommend application on bone-dry skin, followed by application of a non-comedogenic moisturizer. I typically recommend application every other night, gradually increasing to nightly after two to three weeks if tolerating. If not, sensitivity typically improves after four to six weeks. I do not recommend application less than every third night because it loses efficacy at that point. In terms of pore-size, enlarged pores are very difficult to treat, and tretinoin should usually help (albeit minimally). I hope this is helpful!

Dr. Cavanaugh

Tretinoin 0.025 and larger pores? (Photo)

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Tretinoin 0.025 and larger pores? (Photo)

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