What happens if you don't stop using Retin-A before Clear and Brilliant? Can it scar you?

Question

I accidentally used a little retin A 2 days in advance for the first time in weeks then didn't even think about it before hand. What will happen?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Moisturizing retinoids like Replenish cream can be used with Clear and Brilliant. The retinoids may increase skin sensitivity. I would use Melarase PM cream afterwards. Best, Dr. KaramanoukianLos Angeles

Glenn Vallecillos, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi and thanks for the question. Retin-A prior to Clear and Brilliant can potentially sensitize the skin to the laser treatment.  Clear and Brilliant is a very mild laser treatment however, so I wouldn't anticipate having untoward effects.  I generally have my patients stop using retinoids for a week prior to laser/light treatments.  Best of luck,
Glenn Vallecillos, MD, FACS, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Shaun Patel, MD · Answer

Retin-A use prior to the treatment may make your skin more sensitive to the laser. The Clear + Brilliant is a gentle laser treatment and so I do not think you will have any issues with the laser. However, I do usually recommend that my patients stop retinoids for 7 days prior to the treatment and recommend this to you as well for any future treatments.

Estee Williams, MD · Answer

Retin-A may make the skin more sensitive, red, dry, and, in regards to lasers, more sensitive. Clear+Brilliant is, relatively-speaking, a light laser treatment, therefore we do not expect that you will encounter any issues, even though you applied Retin-A. In the future, it should be stopped a few days before any lasers, just to minimize any issues at all. But you're going to be fine. Best!

Alexis Parker, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

If you used "a little Retin-A" you will be more exfoliated and may get even more results from your treatment.  Just let your provider know so that he or she can adjust your treatment appropriately.

What happens if you don't stop using Retin-A before Clear and Brilliant? Can it scar you?

Answers (6)

Answer: Retin-A and lasers

Answer: Retin-A and lasers

Answer: Clear and Brilliant

Answer: Clear and Brilliant

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What happens if you don't stop using Retin-A before Clear and Brilliant? Can it scar you?

Answers (6)

Answer: Retin-A and lasers

Answer: Retin-A and lasers

Answer: Clear and Brilliant

Answer: Clear and Brilliant

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Clear and Brilliant

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.