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Using Retin-A gel 0.08% for the first time and am concerned about sun sensitivity. Advice?

KoffKoffMay 30, 2018
I’m African American with a darker skin tone and I was recently prescribed Retin-A gel 0.08% for acne. I’ve read a lot about the side effects and I’m a little concerned. Having a darker skin tone, is Retina-A good for me and am I prone to suffer from discoloration, hyperpigmentation, darkening etc.? Also, will my skin continue to be overly sensitive to sun exposure after I eventually discontinue the use of Retina-A, or does this sensitivity occur only during the use of Retina-A? Thanks!

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Dr. Sachin S. Parikh, MD
Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon
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Answered on May 31, 2018
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Fereydoon S. Mahjouri, MD

Not to worry, you cannot do damage to your skin by applying these products together. Vitamin C is best used in the morning. It is a fantastic antioxidant that can further protect your skin from the sun. Retinol is best used at night, as it breaks down in light and it causes your skin to be more...

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Fereydoon S. Mahjouri, MD

Yes, artificial light does breakdown Retin-A. I would suggest putting it on just before going to bed. If the TV is across the room, I wouldn't worry too much about it breaking the Retin-A down, but if you're using a device (phone, computer, tablet) in close proximity to your face, I would wait...

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Fereydoon S. Mahjouri, MD

You definitely don't want to use a Retinol on your skin right after any kind of procedure. I would wait 2 weeks or until the Dr give you the go ahead. While the skin is still raw, you will want to use Vaseline to protect the skin. As soon as it starts to heal (aka not raw) you will want to make...

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