Tretinoin is the other name of a retinoid belonging to vitamin A and this retinoid has gained the enormous popularity within the dermatological society mainly because of its excellent efficacy in the treatment of skin disorders. This primer gives an overview of Tretinoin; it will explain the advantages, disadvantages, costs, and potential side effects in Pakistan to enable users who are thinking of taking it to understand the frequently asked questions fully.

 

What is Tretinoin?

Tretinoin or all-Trans retinoic acid is a topical medicine being a cell turnover agent. This drug is utilized generally in the treatment of acne and diminution of fine wrinkles and lines along with general improvement of skin texture and tone. These medications are available in multiple formulations, such as cream, gel, and liquid formulations, and their strength of Tretinoin can range from 0.01% to 0.1%.

 

1. Treatment of Acne

Tretinoin is quite probably most famously known for treatment of cases of acne amongst patients. By encouraging the shedding of the many dead skin cells found on the outer layer of the skin, comedon formation, the main cause of acne formation, is also reduced because no more particles can block the pores. Maintenance therapy with the medication may help decrease the incidence and severity of acne breakouts. Studies have shown that Tretinoin can decrease acne lesions in as high as 50% of the patients within a short period of two weeks on regular use.

 

2. Anti-Aging Properties

It is also an effective anti-ageing medicine, which is a derivative of vitamin A. Tretinoin encourages collagen production and collagen is important to maintain skin suppleness and elasticity. Cellular turnover is also enhanced with this action, which help to decrease the popularity of such skin problems as fine lines, crow’s feet and age blotches. Most users say that their skin feels softer and more radiant after applying Tretinoin in their treatment routine.

 

3. Texture and Color Improvement

Tretinoin will soften and smoothen out the skin tone. This treatment promotes the growth of new skin cells that work to decrease hyperpigmentation, such as sunspots and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation caused by acne. The user will often see that the skin looks almost even toned and less ridged areas that make it look healthier overall.

 

4. Minimizes pore size

The most common fear of patients who suffer from this disease is the size of pores. Tretinoin minimizes pore size as it keeps pores free of comedones and prevents comedones from appearing on the skin. The effect is most useful in patients with oily or combined skin types.

 

5. Other Dermatological Treatments

Besides its popular use in acne and aging, tretinoin is still used in the treatment of many other conditions on the skin, such as keratosis pilaris and some types of psoriasis. This property of inducing skin cell turnover makes it an excellent application for the treatment of various dermatological conditions.

 

6. Improvements in Topical Therapies

Tretinoin may be applied together with other topical preparations, such as against hyperpigmentation or anti-aging. Applying Tretinoin along with other drugs may help to improve their absorption, hence to provide a more potent action of those drugs.


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How to Apply Tretinoin

 

How to Apply Tretinoin - Step by Step Guide

See a Dermatologist: A doctor should prescribe Tretinoin and a patient should not begin use of the medication before consulting with a dermatologist to decide which concentration of Tretinoin and, if necessary, which formulation is good for the patient’s skin type and the state of their skin.


  • Start Low: Begin with a low concentration, such as 0.025%, and apply it every other night. Gradually, you can be able to increase the frequency to once daily as tolerated.
  • Cleanse Your Face: Wash your face using a gentle cleanser. Gently pat dry with a clean towel.
  • Apply Tretinoin: Use only a pea-sized amount over your whole face. Areas around your eyes and mouth are often more sensitive and should be avoided.
  • Apply Moisturizer: 20-30 minutes after applying Tretinoin, apply a moisturizer to counteract the drying and irritation that it may cause.
  • Apply Sunscreen: As Tretinoin makes the skin sensitive to sunlight, a sunscreen with at least protection factor 30 should be used daily on unprotected sun exposed skin areas including the face.

Risks and Side Effects

  

1. Skin Irritation

Common side effects of Tretinoin are redness, peeling, dryness, and irritation, more common early in the treatment course. These symptoms have been given the descriptive title "retinoid reaction" and generally subside as the skin adjusts to the drug.

 

2. Sun Sensitivity

Tretinoin raises sensitivity to the sun, so it is most crucial to apply sunscreen every day when on treatment. Without protection from UV rays, the skin may burn or worse.

 

3. Not for Everyone

Tretinoin should be avoided by pregnant and nursing mothers. Fortunately, this drug presents a very serious risk to the fetus or the newborn which is being treated. Tretinoin should not be administered to patient that is sensitive to skin hypersensitivity and patients under such categories should first seek a dermatological opinion.

 

4. Allergic Reaction

Though very rare, some may respond allergically to Tretinoin. Symptoms include heavy redness, swelling, and even hives. One should stop use if they come and get it attended by a medical expert.

 

5. Breakout phase

Some patients tend to aggravate acne upon applying this medication due to fast cell turnover. In some instances, it only gets temporary and continues getting better.

 

Cost of Tretinoin in Pakistan

The price of Tretinoin depends upon the brand, concentration, and type. Generally, the normal range for the typical tube or bottle will be in between PKR 500 and PKR 2,000. The local market and pharmacy have different types such as Retin-A, Stevia-A, and Tretinoin Cream, which varies according to its formulation and concentration. The best practice would be to consult with a healthcare professional for which one would work best, then check prices at pharmacies locally.

 

Conclusion

Tretinoin is an all-powerful drug for any dermatologist since it serves numerous benefits for acne victims, aging signs, and non-uniform skin tone patients. Generally, it is safe and effective. Still, the potential for side effects should be known and, therefore, used with a health care provider's guidance. Knowing how to use Tretinoin will put someone on their way toward taking giant leaps toward healthy, more radiant skin. As one with proven efficacy and versatility, tretinoin will always be at the very heart of skincare for innumerable people striving toward their goals of better health.


Please book an appointment with the Best Dermatologist in Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, and all major cities of Pakistan through InstaCare, or call our helpline at 03171777509 to find a verified doctor for your disease.