Can I use Retin A or Retinol up until I get my Ultherapy on my face?

Question

Do I need to stop using Retin A before my Ultherapy on face? If so how far out should I stop? Could I use a Retinol over the counter or does the same rules apply like Retin A?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

There shouldn't be any restriction on using topical vitamin A like Retin A after ultherapy.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Hratch Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for posting this great question, as I believe retinoid products are excellent for maintaining great skin.I recommend that you stop using retinoid products for a week before the Ultherapy procedure and start 2 days later - so as not to have very sensitive skin.I have done Ultherapy since 2011 in hundreds of patients and this is what I recommend to all.Read our Ultherapy book.

Michael Contreras, MD · Answer

Ulthera bypasses the skin surface and targets the tissues deep to the skin.  Therefore it is ok to use a retinoid, either over-the-counter retinol or prescription Retin-A (tretinoin) immediately before and after Ultherapy.

Can I use Retin A or Retinol up until I get my Ultherapy on my face?

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Can I use Retin A or Retinol up until I get my Ultherapy on my face?

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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.