Tretinoin is often used to treat acne, but here's something to know about Tretinoin, especially if you are someone who is acne-prone.
And I know it can be considered a "holy grail" in the skincare world, but let's talk about it.
Tretinoin is one of the strongest forms of Vitamin A. Unlike retinol, it doesn't need to be converted into the skin before it starts working. This means it begins working at a faster rate and on the skin right away when it is applied.
And while this is a great ingredient, it can cause a lot of redness and irritation, especially if the skin already wasn't being supported prior.
Now, Tretinoin will often come either in a cream or gel.
In the cream form, you often will find an ingredient called 'isopropyl myristate', which can be highly pore clogging for someone who is acne-prone.
In the gel form, you may avoid that pore clogging ingredient, but it contains drying alcohols, which can strip the skin barrier and can cause irritation, redness, and barrier disruption.
If you're wondering why Tretinoin isn't helping your acne or keeping it at bay, this may be why and the formulation itself is worth considering.
While prescription medications can be helpful for some, they're not the only options. You don't have to go on prescription medications to get clearer and healthier skin.
Working with a licensed aesthetician who specializes in acne can help you better understand your skin, help you make more informed decisions about whats right for you, and build a personalized routine for your skin.
Until next time,
Stay Barefaced
Providing customized facial treatments designed to deeply cleanse, clarify, decongest pores, reduce inflammation, and support healthier, more radiant looking skin throughout Hopkinton, MA community, including neighbors in Town Center, Wharton Road, Peppercorn Hill, Whitehall Estates, Ravenwood, Legacy Farms, and Valleywood.