Is it safe to use Retin-a .05% at night after cleansing, and then not wash off again until the next night?

Question

I have pretty dry skin and I am trying to fix some sun damage around my eyes. I have mild acne and I use sulfacetamide 10/5 cream on areas where I suspect blemishes are arising. I have found washing only once a day at night helps my facial skin feel more comfortable. I am not sure though if I absolutely should wash off the retin-a in the morning even though I am using a spf 34 Skinmedica product during the day. Any professional opinions would be helpful.

Brian K. Reedy, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question.Retin A does not need to be washed off.Be sure to use a moisturizer with SPF each morning.Hope this helps

Laurel Geraghty, MD · Answer

The retinoid cream doesn't offer any added benefit wearing it for 24 hours (vs a few hours overnight), but it shouldn't hurt you to leave it on if that's what makes your skin feel  best. But if dryness is what's bothering you, washing with a mild, nondedicated cleanser in the morning may offer an opportunity for a soothing moisturizer to penetrate and work a little better (moisturizer always works best right after cleansing, when skin is warm and patted dry). Your SPF product during the daytime is essential - keep up the great work!

Jeffrey C. Poole, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Retin-A (Tretinoin) does not need to be washed off the AM.  Just as you have, all my patients apply at night after cleansing, rub in well, then forget about it.  I do recommend AM cleansing as part of most people's skin care, but not to remove the Retin-A--- it was fully absorbed into the skin within the first 1-2 hours after application.

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Is it safe to use Retin-a .05% at night after cleansing, and then not wash off again until the next night?

Answers (3)

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