Using tretinoin to treat my hyperpigmentation for a week now & it seems that it get darker and more pimple are showing? (Photo)

Question

Shoud i stop using it or continue?

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

When starting tretinoin, it's common to experience an initial worsening of skin conditions before seeing improvements. Here are some insights and recommendations:

Initial Reaction: It's normal for the skin to purge when beginning tretinoin treatment. This means that you might see more pimples as the medication accelerates skin cell turnover. Hyperpigmentation might also appear darker initially because tretinoin can bring underlying pigmentation to the surface.

Adjustment Period: The skin often requires time to adjust to tretinoin. This adjustment period can last several weeks, during which you may notice increased dryness, redness, or irritation.

Continue with Caution: Unless you experience severe irritation or an allergic reaction, it's usually best to continue using the product as prescribed. However, if the reaction seems too intense, consider reducing the frequency of application (e.g., every other night) and ensure you are using a moisturizer to help minimize irritation.

Sun Protection: Tretinoin can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. It's essential to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily to protect your skin and prevent further hyperpigmentation.

Consult Your Dermatologist: If you're concerned about your skin's reaction, it's advisable to consult with your dermatologist. They can assess your skin's response and make personalized recommendations, which may include adjusting your usage or trying alternative treatments.

Overall, patience is key with tretinoin, as it often takes several weeks to months to see significant improvements in hyperpigmentation and acne.

Using tretinoin to treat my hyperpigmentation for a week now & it seems that it get darker and more pimple are showing? (Photo)

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Everything you need to know about Retin-A

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Using tretinoin to treat my hyperpigmentation for a week now & it seems that it get darker and more pimple are showing? (Photo)

Answers (1)

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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.