Tretinoin 0.1 Gel burn - is this normal and will it cause scarring or hyperpigmentation? (photos)

Question

I have been using tretinoin 0.1 gel on my thighs, face and chest. My skin became flaky and started to peel. I scraped the peel off and was left with sticky and shiny skin. Not that my skin was oily but was hella glassy. The next time I applied tretinoin I woke up with crazy itching and redness. I want to ask if this is normal and if not will it cause scarring or hyperpigmentation?

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

It's not uncommon to experience some irritation, redness, and peeling when using tretinoin, especially at a higher concentration like 0.1%. These symptoms can occur as your skin adjusts to the treatment. However, the intense itching and redness you're describing, especially after scraping off peeling skin, may indicate that your skin is reacting more severely than usual.

Here are a few points to consider:

Normal Reactions: Mild redness, peeling, and flakiness can be normal as your skin acclimates to tretinoin. However, intense itching and severe redness should be addressed.

Risk of Scarring or Hyperpigmentation: If the skin is severely irritated or if you continue to scrape off peeling skin, there is a potential risk for scarring or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, especially if your skin tone is darker.

Recommendations:

Discontinue use temporarily and allow your skin to heal.
Avoid picking or peeling the skin.
Use a gentle, hydrating moisturizer to soothe and protect the skin barrier.
Consider using tretinoin less frequently and gradually increasing usage as tolerated.
Always apply sunscreen during the day, as tretinoin can make your skin more sensitive to UV damage.
Consult a Dermatologist: It's best to consult with a dermatologist who can assess your skin condition in person and provide tailored advice. They may suggest adjusting your regimen or trying a lower concentration of tretinoin.

Monitoring your skin's response and adjusting your skincare routine as needed can help prevent further irritation and potential complications.

Tretinoin 0.1 Gel burn - is this normal and will it cause scarring or hyperpigmentation? (photos)

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Tretinoin 0.1 Gel burn - is this normal and will it cause scarring or hyperpigmentation? (photos)

Answers (1)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Microneedling

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