Suddenly Tretinoin got out of stock & I'm using it for 4 weeks so does it affect its effectiveness if i'll use after a week/ two

Question

I have acne n after trying several products for years i finally got tretinoin cream 0.25% so after 4 weeks of using it i barely see difference . after 4weeks of using i have got 7 pimples with some small pimples n Is this a purging state n after finishing this when i went for medical store to buy a new one they said it;s out of stock so it'' take abt 10 days to come so it will work the same or should i stop from now ? N Some tips on my acne .. sry i havent clicked pictures wid my acne .help me

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

When you experience a temporary interruption in your tretinoin treatment due to it being out of stock, it's understandable to have concerns about its effectiveness. Here’s some guidance:

Effectiveness and Interruption: A short break of about 10 days in using tretinoin should not significantly affect its long-term effectiveness. However, it’s important to resume use as soon as possible when it becomes available again to maintain progress.

Purging Phase: The increase in pimples you’re experiencing might be part of the purging phase, which is common when starting tretinoin. This occurs as the medication accelerates skin cell turnover, bringing underlying impurities to the surface. This phase usually lasts a few weeks.

Interim Skincare Routine:

Gentle Cleanser: Use a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser to keep your skin clean without stripping it of moisture.
Moisturizer: Apply a hydrating, non-comedogenic moisturizer to maintain skin barrier function, especially if your skin feels dry or irritated.
Spot Treatment: Consider using a mild over-the-counter acne treatment, such as one containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, but be cautious to avoid over-irritating your skin.
Sun Protection: Continue to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily to protect your skin, as it can remain sensitive even during the break from tretinoin.

Consultation: If the purging phase or acne persists, consider consulting with a dermatologist for personalized advice and alternative treatment options.

By maintaining a consistent skincare routine and resuming tretinoin as soon as possible, you can continue to work towards clearer skin.

Suddenly Tretinoin got out of stock & I'm using it for 4 weeks so does it affect its effectiveness if i'll use after a week/ two

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Suddenly Tretinoin got out of stock & I'm using it for 4 weeks so does it affect its effectiveness if i'll use after a week/ two

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Everything you need to know about Retin-A

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