Discoloration after retinoids that doesn't go away after stopping for a while. Is this normal? What are my options?

Question

I've been using retinoids for 10yrs now. Around 3 yrs ago I noticed the skin on my cheeks is discoloured, with pink irritation like parts + my face is darker than the rest of my body and has a pink hue. I wear spf50 religiously so it's def not a tan. Is it possible that it's retinoids that are causing it? I'm using tretinoin in cream 0.05 every other night. The discoloration is not getting worse nor better. I don't want to stop using retinoids as they keep me wrinkle free. What are my options?

Amy Y. Paul, DO, FAAD · Answer

Thanks for your question and helpful photos.  It is obvious that you have very lightly pigmented skin, and often as our skin gets more mature with time, the pink blood vessels and redness can show through more prominently.  Retin-a is wonderful for helping with fine lines and wrinkles, but it can make the skin appear more red.  Please see a dermatologist that has an arsenal of lasers and experience, and see if they would recommend some treatments with IPL or a vascular laser on a very low setting to help minimize the redness.  Also make sure you are using an excellent quality, physical blocking sunscreen that contains zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide which well help the skin stay evenly pigmented and let less light and heat onto the delicate skin.   Best of luck!

Reuel Aspacio, MD, FAAD - Account Suspended · Answer

Thank you for your question and photographs. A common side effect of retinoids is redness and irritation. With that being said, it's difficult to determine what is causing your redness and discoloration without an in-person examination. I highly recommend you consult with a board certified dermatologist to have your skin evaluated and to discuss treatment options that best suit your needs. Take care and good luck.

Discoloration after retinoids that doesn't go away after stopping for a while. Is this normal? What are my options?

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Discoloration after retinoids that doesn't go away after stopping for a while. Is this normal? What are my options?

Answers (2)

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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.