Can Retin-A Make Older Scars (Rolling Scars) on my Cheek Worse?

Question

The scarring is not a fresh scar. I would have to say its from over 4 yrs ago. Is this a safe product to be putting on this area? Im so afraid to apply it to this area is case it looks worse.

Emily Altman, MD · Answer

Retin A can actually help improve the appearance of acne scars, although it works much better on new scars than on old.

	Start using it slowly, twice a week at night time, and increase the number of days per week in such a way as to not irritate yours skin.

	If there is irritation, stop the Retin A for a few days then restart at a less frequent schedule.

Edward Lack, MD (retired) · Answer

Retin A improves skin quality and sun damage and is safe for scars.  In most studies there is no antioxidant with better rejuvenation properties for the skin than Retin A.

Can Retin-A Make Older Scars (Rolling Scars) on my Cheek Worse?

Answers (2)