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

Question

I am starting to see fine lines around my eyes and nasolabial folds are kicking in. So I began using Retin-a early this month (Dec 2014). Every summer I go to Hawaii. I'm afraid that I will have to stop my regimen and start all over...I don't think sunscreen is going to be enough to protect me. Must I stop my regimen before my two week trip to Hawaii and If I do, will it be like starting all over again with the Retin- a process? Any advice or tips on how I can keep going despite sun exposure?

Harold J. Kaplan, MD · Answer

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.

Amy Y. Paul, DO, FAAD · Answer

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!

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

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

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.