What to do for peeling and redness from tretinoin cream? (Photo)

Question

I just started using Tretinoin Cream .05% and my forehead peeled if and left a red patch. Is there anything I can do to get rid of the redness and prevent future peeling

Tracy Evans, MD, FAAD · Answer

Peeling and redness are very common complaints with a new Tretinoin regimen.  There are a few ways to combat these side effects.  Stop the Tretinoin for a day or two and use a good moisturizer at night.  Then restart with these few modifications:  (1) Start SLOW, use the medication every 2 or 3 nights and work your way up to every night as you tolerate it a little better.  (2) Apply AFTER your night moisturizer until you have progressed to every night.  We like to use Restorsea Rebalancing lotion and Skin Medica Rejuvenative moisturizer before our retinoids.  (3) Use only a PEA-SIZED amount for the entire face.  (4) Avoid the eyelids with the medication.  These few modifications to your regimen should help prevent the redness and dryness/peeling.

What to do for peeling and redness from tretinoin cream? (Photo)

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What to do for peeling and redness from tretinoin cream? (Photo)

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Everything you need to know about Retin-A

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