Retin-A and microneedling together? (Photo)

Question

I'm a 50 yrs old white woman, with fair skin. I've been using Retin-A for a few months now, starting at 0.025 % and just now started at 0.05%. I wash my face and then wait a couple of hours before putting on the Retin-A. Does that wait negate the affects of Retin-A? Also, I would like to add microneedling to my regime every few months. Is that possible, and how should I proceed with that? All info is greatly appreciated!

Fereydoon S. Mahjouri, MD · Answer

Retin-A combined with microneedling is a great combination to slow the aging process. You can apply your Retin-A at night a few minutes after cleansing your skin. No need to wait a few hours but it will not negate the benefits if you wait. If you add the microneedling I would recommend getting the microneedling every month for the first three months. After your first three sessions you can skip a month and microneedle every other month. Both Retin-A and microneedling with help you build collagen in the dermal layer of your skin resulting in a more youthful appearance.

David P. Melamed, MD · Answer

Retin-A and microneedling is a wonderful combination. Make sure to inform your care provider that you are using Retin-A in case they are planing to use any energy-based devices on your skin.  The Retin-A increases your skin's turnover (or growth) with also stimulating collagen growth within your skin.  Microneedling cases a very small amount of trauma on the superficial part of your skin. This also stimulates collagen growth.

Robert T. Buchanan, MD (retired) · Answer

Retin-A stimulates collagen production. Micro needling is supposed to do the same, though the evidence is not strong. Using the 2 together should only increase the effectiveness. However, there is no evidence yet that this happens. The best way to use Retin-A is to put it on directly after washing your face and applying a pH balancer like Vitamin-C, Skin Medica's TNS Essential Serum or an acidic toner. I would continue to push the amount (& percentage) of the Retin-A to increase its effectiveness. If you have not gotten any redness from its use, you need to push the amount until you do and then hold at that amount. The redness will resolve in about 4-6 weeks as your skin gets used to it. You can then push further.

Retin-A and microneedling together? (Photo)

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Retin-A and microneedling together? (Photo)

Answers (3)

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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.