Retin A: How long does the dryness and peeling last? (Photo)

In my experience, Retin-A can be very drying to patients.  I have advised patients in the past to apply the Retin-A every other evening to every third evening when starting Retin-A and gradually try to increase the application to nightly.  I also advise them to apply a very thin coat of a non-comedogenic moisturizer prior to the application of the Retin-A.  I have them follow by using a small pea-size amount of the Retin-A (the same size as a kernel of corn) to their entire face. In my experience, I advised patients to hold off on exfoliating if they are too dry with the Retin-A because the Retin-A is an exfoliant itself and the two of them together could be contributing to your excessive dryness. I recommend that patients use cooler water when they wash their face and a mild cleanser.  If there Retin-A is still too drying, a board certified dermatologist may consider Adapalene, which is a milder retinoid that may not be as irritating to your skin.  I hope this helps.