Meta-analysis
Vitamin A derivative used to treat acne and other skin conditions. Available in topical and oral forms. Has a prescription status.
What is Tretinoin
Tretinoin belongs to the retinoid group of medications ( Vitamin A derivatives that work on the internal skin layers to mitigate acne problems and help you achieve clearer, younger-looking skin).
It is FDA-approved for topical application of acne vulgaris, a condition triggered by Cutibacterium Acnes, resulting in inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesions in the facial regions.
Oral tretinoin is reserved for moderate to severe cystic acne, not responding satisfactorily to other treatment options. Â
Studies have proven tretinoin to be successful in more than 50% of acne conditions when regularly applied for 30 minutes per day
How does it work on acne
Studies have shown that tretinoin binds to the alpha, beta, and gamma retinoic receptors ( that mediate retinoid signaling in cell differentiation and morphogenesis ) along with retinoid X receptors to block inflammatory mediators of acne.
Other than its anti-inflammatory properties, it impacts collagen formations to modify abnormal follicular formation and prevent excessive keratinization of the epithelial cells.
The impact of tretinoin increases the mitotic activity in the dermal regions and promotes cornified cell detachment and enhanced shedding.
The increased mitotic activity results in an increase in the corneocytes (dead keratinized cells in the outer skin layer ) turnover that expels the comedo contents, allowing the inflammation to subside
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Usage
The best way to use Tretinoin cream is to take a pea-sized amount and gently apply it in the specific areas while taking care not to use more than required. The medication works best in
- Reducing inflammatory lesions
- Enabling follicular exfoliation
- Enabling clearer, younger-looking skin
Side effects
One of the most common side effects associated with tretinoin use is photosensitivity, which can get worse on sensitive skin. For safety reasons, physicians advise using tretinoin at night time to allow the medication to be effectively absorbed during the night.
In case you need to apply it during the day, pair it with a wide spectrum sun-screen and adequate sun protection. Though rare, tretinoin use can, at times, result in side effects in the form of rashes, itching, tingling, and burning sensation with swelling of the face, mouth, and tongue during allergic reactions. Discontinue tretinoin use if the side effects persist or increase in intensity and get urgent medical attention.
Drug interactions and Contraindications
Tretinoin use can result in drug interactions when used concomitantly with other retinoids or vitamin-a derivatives.
The medication is contraindicated in
- People allergic to tretinoin or other retinoids
- Individuals with fresh wounds or burn marks in the dermal region
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women
- Children less than 12 years of age
Inform your physician if the acne doesn’t clear satisfactorily or worsens after the use of the medication so they can look into alternative options.
How to buy tretinoin
Tretinoin has a prescription status and is not readily available over the counter. You can get the medication from pharmacies or order it from online medical retailers dealing with acne medicines.
 Online ordering will enable you to get the medication in a hassle-free manner, helping you obtain great online deals.
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