Tretinoin caused redness, itchiness and sandpaper feeling on my arms. What to do?

Question

I started using tret 0.1 on my arms and upper thighs daily. My arms have become red and itchy and have a coarse texture. What do I do? Power through it and keep using it? Back off? Dermaplane the skin? We have a big trip in April and I want to have it resolved!

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I recommend discontinuing use and seeing a cosmetic dermatologist for an evaluation and treatment. Lasers, microneedling/prp, peels and skin care can all improve texture and redness. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Katherine Dee, MD · Answer

Hi There. Everyone reacts to retinols with redness and flakiness if you start using it in too high a concentration too quickly. Stop using them, and this will resolve usually in a few days. No need for other treatments!

Tretinoin 0.1% is very high to start using on the skin daily. I usually start patients with a much lower concentration and use every 3 nights after for 2 weeks and slowly increase exposure as tolerated. Starting with a high concentration every day will produce your symptoms in most people!

I also wonder why you are using it on your arms and legs-- is this for acne or something different like keratosis pilaris? There may be better treatments for you than using Retin-A. I would recommend seeing a qualified expert who knows about skin care products.

Tretinoin caused redness, itchiness and sandpaper feeling on my arms. What to do?

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Tretinoin caused redness, itchiness and sandpaper feeling on my arms. What to do?

Answers (2)

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Everything you need to know about Skin Rejuvenation

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