Can I Use Retin-A All Over My Face?

Yes Retin A is a great to use all over your face if you don't have any contraindications - such as being allergic to any of the ingredients, pregnant/breast feeding, etc).

Although it is FDA prescription medication approved for acne, most of its usage in the USA  is to help with  blemishes, discolorations, and rejuvenation by diminishing wrinkles, sun spots, shrink pores, and clear complexion. It also to a degree thickens the dermis and there is some early evidence it may help decrease the likelihood for some skin cancers.

It takes a bit of getting used to so I recommend starting with the lowest strength used at night and if tolerated then when the tube is used up progress to the next strength. For irritation which is common in the early phase of treatment, your plastic surgeon/medical esthetician or nurse, or dermatologist will help you through the adjustment process. Apply a small amount over whole face, . Add moisturizer afterwards if needed. If irritation consider use every other day the  first two to three  weeks until tolerated then once a day.. The treatment should be done under guidance of a physician experienced with this medication.

Retin-A is one brand name for tretinoin cream, which is used for acne, sun damage and skin rejuvenation.  It is the best anti-aging cream and can be used all over the face, including near the eyes, as well as on the chest, neck and the backs of hands.  It should not be used during pregnancy.  Sun protection should be used daily.

It doesn't really matter if you use the cream or micro gel.  Try starting with the .025% cream every other night for two weeks to prevent too much dryness or peeling.  Once tolerated, you can try using it nightly. Even if you can only tolerate it every other night, you will still benefit from it.  The .05% cream will not give you more rejuvenating effects but will be more irritating.

Retin-A (tretinoin) is great for the full-face but as it can be very drying and irritating, it is important to learn how to use it properly and to be under the care of a dermatologist. Which strength and formulation (cream vs gel) you use will depend on your skin type and skin history. Patients with sensitive skin or who are prone to skin conditions such as eczema should be very careful with Retin-A, if using it at all.  When I prescribe Retin-A, I give my patients specific instructions on how to properly use it and I discuss the side effects at length. Retin-A should not be used if you are pregnant or breast-feeding and should always be applied at night as it can be irritating in the sun.