I started using a brightening complex twice daily & retinol A 0.5% 2xper week for dark spots & melasma 3 months ago. I have very sensitive skin & maybe rosacea. I would get the redness on my nose & cheeks & rashes on my face. I ended up with more dark spots, the previous dark spots darker, rough skin & flaking. Should I continue or stop? I still do not see any positive results, except the redness, bumps & more dark areas on my face & bluish dark area on my forehead !
Answers (1)
From board-certified doctors and trusted medical professionals
MOST RECENT
March 14, 2025
Answer: Managing Sensitive Skin: What to Do When Retinol and Brightening Complexes Cause Irritation and Dark
Topical vitamin A products can be harsh, particularly during the initial phase of use. I recommend applying a heavy moisturizer after application to reduce irritation. The white areas are like pityriasis alba from eczema but are due to the high irritation factor of the product you...
The AHA can be used both in the AM and PM. However, you may want to start only in the morning. After washing your face in the evening you should use the Vitamin-C to a pH balancing toner. You also need to switch the Renova for Retin-A. The Renova is a combination of Retin-A and mineral oil. The...
As an alternative to the obagi creams, our office prefers to place patients on the Melarase program + RR Retinoid Repair Cream as we feel that the latter is better tolerated and more effective. Raffy Karamanoukian MD FACSLos Angeles