Will Tretinoin cream .05% fade acne scars and hyperpigmentation? (Photos)

Question

I have completed 5 out of 6 microneedling sessions. I have seen significant results except my hyperpigmentation persists. Will tretinoin eventually fade my old acne scars? Also I have been taking Vitamin A & Zinc orally in a vitamin supplement For acne.(at first i was taking 900mcg but I just switched to a different supplement that is 4000IU, sorry not in the same units). Would I need to stop taking my supplements, too much Vitamin A? So far my acne clear bc of vitamins + topical Clindamycin.

Harold J. Kaplan, MD · Answer

Hello Mojo.  Retin A is a great product for exfoliating the skin (removing dead skin).  It can help the skin look refreshed and there is some value with acne scars because it causes the color to come to the surface sooner than if you were not using it.  With that said, the best thing for dark acne scars would be prescription hydroquinone (4% or more).  This will fade the dark scars quicker than anything else.

Amy Y. Paul, DO, FAAD · Answer

Thanks for your question and photos.  The tretinoin will help keep the skin refreshed and may help continue to improve your scars, but as far as any actual hyperpigmentation, hydroquinone is something to ask your dermatologist about.  Some products combine both tretinoin and hydroquinone and be be used in a prescription or over the counter strength.  You will want to use good quality skin care between microneedling sessions and continue to manage your active acne the best you can so you don't get more scarring.  Vitamin A can be tricky for the liver, so discuss the oral vitamin A with your dermatologist as well.  Please see an expert, and best of luck!

Will Tretinoin cream .05% fade acne scars and hyperpigmentation? (Photos)

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