Tretinoin is the strongest topical treatment containing Vitamin A available. It accelerates cell turnover, reduces pigmentation, smoothes skin, and shrinks pores. It is also one of the most effective treatments for reducing fine lines and wrinkles, and is an excellent treatment for acne and acne scarring. It is also helpful in treating hyperpigmentation and sun damage. It is a strong medication, and as such, it is only available on prescription in the UK from a dermatologist or doctor. It is recommended to begin with a low dose and work your way up to the higher strength prescribed by your healthcare professional.
It can take a few weeks or even months before you start to see the results you want, so it is important to stick with it. Using the correct technique and following the instructions given to you by your doctor or dermatologist is the best way to ensure you are using tretinoin correctly, which can help minimise any side effects that may occur.
Before you apply tretinoin, make sure your face is clean and free of any makeup or creams. Wash your face gently and do not scrub, as this can irritate the skin. Once your face is dry, squeeze a small amount of the cream or gel onto your fingertips and then gently rub it into the areas you have chosen to treat. It is a good idea to use the cream or gel once a day, before bedtime. Avoid rubbing it into any areas that are swollen or red, as this could cause irritation.
You should avoid drinking alcohol or using any other skin products that contain alcohol, fragrances, astringents, salicylic acid or resorcinol, or other ingredients which can irritate the skin while you are using tretinoin. Similarly, you should wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day while using tretinoin as it makes the skin very sensitive to UV rays.
If you are experiencing any side effects while taking tretinoin, let your doctor or pharmacist know as soon as possible. These can include changes in the appearance or texture of your skin, thinning or flaking, burning, itching and redness, or loss of appetite. Some of these can be very serious, so if you notice any of them, get medical attention straight away.
Some people are more prone to the side effects of tretinoin than others, so they can vary in how common or severe they are. You should inform your doctor or pharmacist of any other symptoms that you might have while taking tretinoin, such as pain in the tummy or bones or chest (pain in the bones and chest). They will be able to prescribe medicine to help.
Many people think that tretinoin has been banned in the UK, but this is not true. You can still get a prescription for this treatment from your GP or dermatologist, and you can purchase it online at sites like UK Meds. They require you to fill out a consultation form before letting you buy the product, which is an easy process that can be done from the comfort of your own home. tretinoin uk