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Tretinoin (RetinA) is actually an exfoliator in the sense that it is a chemical peel in a tube. As far as adding another agent to exfoliate the skin this may cause burning or stinging such as with alpha hydroxy acids. Just using a Clarisonic brush or gentle exfoliating cloth should help get the dead skin off without further irritation. If you are early in the course of RetinA (less than 6 weeks) then you could expect the redness and flaking to calm down around weeks 6-8. Otherwise just increase your moisturizer use or use a moisturizer 20 minutes before you apply the Retin A for the next few weeks.
I do allow exfoliation for some Retin A patients. For others, exfoliation is off limits. There are many factors to consider: skin type (thicker skin can usually do it), diagnosis (inflammatory acne patients should never do it), and several other factors that I take into account when I outline my patient's skin care protocol. Go with what YOUR board certified dermatologist recommends. After all, she is the expert on skin care.
Retin-A is great for facial fine wrinkles, including areas around the eyes. As long as you do not get it into the eyelid margin, it is safe. However, since the eyelid skin is very thin and sensitive, you need to start slow to minimize irritation and dryness of the treatment area. Otherwise, the...
Retin A works completely differently than Botox. It works to reduce the chronic signs of photoaging. It is a great prescription product to continue to use even after Botox since it's results and mechanism of action are completely different. I would suggest however you discuss with the...
Retinoids have been shown to increase the thickness of the dermis which can prevent and treat fine lines and wrinkles. They have also been shown to reverse early skin cancers and treat acne. Retinoids are only available with a prescription (Retin-A, Tazorac, Differin) Retinols are...
