Retin-A and Summertime...How do I reconcile the two? (photo)

Hi Crasee.  Retin A is an excellent product to use for long term skin health.  While it is excellent for exfoliation and keeping your skin looking radiant, it also makes you more sensitive to the sun.  So, while you can still take vacations to Hawaii, you may find that the sun exposure affects you much more profoundly while you are using Retin A.  For this reason, 50 (or greater) SPF sunscreen is recommended as well as hats or sun avoidance.  If you decide to stop the Retin A before your vacation, go off it 1-2 weeks prior and pick it back up when you get back.  As for the wrinkles around the eyes, nose and mouth, you may be ready to consider injection procedures.  Botox and Dysport are great options for the crow's feet at the sides of the eyes and Restylane, Perlane and Radiesse are excellent options for the nasolabial folds at the sides of the nose and mouth.  To see examples of before and after pictures of our Los Angeles injection patients, click the link below.  

Thank you for your question.  Most of my patients successfully use their retin-a through the summer, but need to be a little more careful with sun protection.  You can reduce the number of days a week you use it, and please use a zinc containing sunscreen.  The benefits of retin-a are worth it, even if you stop and start.  Have a great trip to Hawaii!