For lines & wrinkles, does Retin A need to be used nightly? Do I need to continue to work up in strength to get results? (Photo)

Question

7 mo. ago I started using Retin A on face & neck. I started with .025 strength cream once a week, finally worked up to nightly use. 3 mo. ago I started using .05 strength using the same gradual frequency increase. With this strength, my neck lines got very itchy and deep red in color. It cleared up when I stopped use on my neck. (One of the lines on my neck has a scar). I've gotten minor improvement of the fine lines on my face, no improvement of my neck. Do I need stronger nightly use?

Monika Kiripolsky, MD · Answer

Hello there! It's great that you've been proactive about your skincare regimen, and I appreciate your detailed description. In dermatology, the concept of "peeling is healing" is relevant in the context of using products like Retin-A.

In dermatology, "peeling is healing" refers to the idea that mild peeling or flaking of the skin is often a sign that a product, such as Retin-A, is effectively promoting skin renewal. Retin-A is known to cause redness and dryness, especially in the early months of use. This peeling is a part of the process by which Retin-A stimulates the turnover of skin cells, encouraging the removal of old, damaged skin and the production of newer, healthier skin. A full skin turnover cycle is about 6 weeks but it may take several skin cycles for you to see noticeable improvements in your skin.

Retin-A, or tretinoin, is a derivative of vitamin A and is known for its effectiveness in improving skin texture and reducing fine lines and wrinkles. It works by increasing the turnover of skin cells, promoting collagen production, and minimizing sebum production. When used gradually and consistently, it can lead to significant improvements in skin appearance and texture.

It's not uncommon for some individuals to experience skin irritation when using Retin-A on the neck, as the neck area can be more sensitive. The redness and itchiness you experienced on your neck are indicative of skin sensitivity to the .05% strength.

If you are still experiencing some redness and dryness, I would typically recommend pairing your Retin-A use with a moisturizer. I usually prescribe a 0.1% tretinoin cream or 1% tretinol cream depending on the needs of my patient. If you are still experiencing skin irritation or if you wish to go up in dosage, go talk to your local board-certified dermatologist. I hope this helps! Good luck on your skincare journey!

For lines & wrinkles, does Retin A need to be used nightly? Do I need to continue to work up in strength to get results? (Photo)

Answers (1)

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Retin-A

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

For lines & wrinkles, does Retin A need to be used nightly? Do I need to continue to work up in strength to get results? (Photo)

Answers (1)

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Retin-A

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.