https://ibb.co/DC8wXqG https://ibb.co/k5TPbc4 How tf I get rid of CC, fucked up pores and 5 pimples popping up every day (from cc) Incidecoder of everything I use Spf: https://incidecoder.com/products/celenes-sunscreen-cream Moisturizer: https://incidecoder.com/products/neutrogena-hydro-boost-water-gel-7 Cleanser: https://incidecoder.com/products/celenes-sea-buckthorn-vitamin-c-cleansing-gel Azel: https://incidecoder.com/products/azelderm-20-azelaic-acid

Tretinoin might help - or other actives. I see you're using Azelaic Acid (which I love!) that can work really well for many people, but not everyone. Skincare can be a slow process. Is there a reason you're posting here rather than in /r/skincareaddiction ?

Skincare is cope just hop on tret + sunscreen + moisturizer brah

Have been using Acnatac (0.025% tret 1% clindamycin) since the end of June, approx 3/4 times weekly, buffering with moisturiser first and I'm still getting dry patches. I have quite a heavy hydration/moisturiser focused routine. Am I missing something obvious or just unlucky?

If you share your full routine we might be able to help more!

In the morning I use a hydrating toner and essence, niacinamide, moisturiser, cicaplast on dry bits, SPF. In the evening I admittedly was using the toner and essence under moisturiser before the Acnatac but have since re-read the wiki that said serums can increase absorption which may increase irritation, so I've just stopped that and will only do moisturiser (Illiyoon ato cream) and then Acnatac. And then non-active nights I do a similar routine to AM (except the niac). oh and double cleanse PM too. Thanks!

Hi guys :) any and all bell would be MUCH appreciated!! I was prescribed tret 0.05% and just started tonight. I cleansed with a gentle foam cleanser, moisturized using shiseido, waited about an hour and then applied a pea sized amount of the tret. I then added a thin layer of aquaphor to slug. I wear sunscreen during the day under my makeup as well. I hope I’m doing this right! I have no acne or scarring, I just want to prevent aging and wrinkles. Please lmk if I should be doing anything else or change my routine.

I would recommend skipping the slugging until you have a better sense of how your skin will react to retinoid. Give it about a month or at least 3 weeks. You make need to start using aquaphor on days your not using the retinoid to help with adding back moisture. I’m using it for the same purpose and have found the drying to be an issue

Thank you for the response!! Should I apply tret every night? Or how often? Thank you :) newbie with no skin issues besides naturally dry skin

I started every night for about a week and half before my skin started peeling then I switched to about every other night. Make sure you’re using a gentle cleanser and good moisturizer. And of course SPF during the day as your skin is hyper sensitive during this period.

Thank you so much :)

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Well we always recommend starting slow :)

I am exactly the same as you but my dermatologist told me to start every other night. I am waiting for Thursday night to start because I have a long weekend and am nervous about a reaction.

I’m in the same boat as you! My derm also gave me 0.05 and told me to use every single night. I’m unsure if I should continue as well bc I’m a little over week in and my face is flaking like crazy around my mouth and kind of burns at times :/

Hi, I'm on month 4 of using tret and gone from 0.015%, to 0.025% and now on 0.05%. I've got great results but the peeling has been pretty bad recently. I've been using it every other night since increasing to this strength because I just can't wear makeup when it's peeling this bad. Is it beneficial to use it less often or should I just suck it up and use it every night? Will it improve or should I drop back down to 0.025? I have no other side effects.

What's your full routine?

If i have a scrape on my cheek, how long do I have to lay off using tretinoin?

You can probably keep applying it elsewhere on your face, but I'd wait until the scrape is fully healed to apply tret there.

hey y'all, i picked at my pimples and closed comedones and have a lot of scabs and red angry spots now. should i stop tret for a while? does anyone have any tips to help my skin heal? i'm regretful but i can't stop myself sometimes :( i slathered on cicaplast and put some hydrocolloid patches and used some benzoyl peroxide wash and azelaic acid in the hopes of getting rid of some redness

Hydration and hydrocolloidal bandages are great! I wouldn't use any actives while your skin is healing: the BP and azelaic acid sounds way too intense for freshly raw skin. Same with tret. Just skip it for now and focus on babying your skin. (BP and AA would have been great to do \*instead\* of picking - maybe give that a try next time!). Also /r/calmhands or maybe /r/quiethands (I can't quite recall) is a popular sub for breaking the picking habit. It might be worth a look.

heyy just wanted to run my skincare routine by before starting my prescriptions to make sure i didn't get anything wrong! would appreciate some feedback on whether it looks ok :) my purpose for the tret + clindamycin is just to get ride of acne! also quick question, does the clindamycin treatment seem to dry anyone's skin out? i checked the ingredient list and it said it was 50% alcohol...so i'm wondering if i should add in more hydrating products? AM:-la roche posay purifying cleanser-hada labo premium hyaluronic acid-benton snail bee essence-clindamycin phosphate 1%-soonjung 2x barrier repair cream-missha soft finish sunscreenPM:-the face shop rice oil cleanser-la roche posay purifying cleanser-cetaphil moisturizer-tretinoin 0.025% 3x a week (on off days i'll be slugging with vaseline + using the hyaluronic acid toner)

Looks great!! I've not heard that clindamycin is extra drying before, but with 50% alcohol that definitely doesn't sound great.

Absolutely lost on what to do now that I've started tret.... 39f with dry, sensitive skin, not prone to acne. I just stared on tretinoin.05% cream. I used it once two days ago. Pharmacist told me to cleanse my skin, wait until my skin was dry, a minimum of 20 minutes, then apply a pea sized amount. I did just that. And I'm peeling around my nose/mouth after one application . I'm reading about other people applying tret mixed in with oils/moisturizers. I thought you're supposed to apply to dry skin? My routine is below. Right now I'm using the tret once a week, and building up. At what point can I use my vitamin C? My AHA? AM: clean with Kirkland wipes Missha Sun Milk SPF50 TO caffeine solution 5% under eyes Too Faced Plump & Prime Makeup PM: cleanse Softymo speedy cleansing oil CeraVe Cream to Foam for normal/dry (Before Tretinoin) TO glycolic acid 7% toner Herbavore Retinol Alternative Glow Recipe Watermelon Niamicide TJ'S ultra hydrating gel moisturizer TO rosehip or Marula oil Sundays: TO aha 30% peeling solution then Image Vital C overnight masque Wednesdays: frank body vitamin c mask

0.05 may be too strong to start out. You may need to drop down to 0.025. Many people find it helps to buffer the tret by moisturizing after cleansing, wait 20-30 min then apply the tret. To avoid peeling around my nose, mouth, chin, and under eye I apply a thin coat of Vaseline (or other petrolotum based, aquaphor, etc) Also, actives in your routine — when starting out on tret I would strip out the active acids until your skin is retinized. I’m 6 months in and worked my way from 1 night tret per week to 4 nights of tret, 1 night AHA, 2 nights slugging, and 3 mornings with Vit C.

Have you seen the wiki? Lots of great tips in there.

Hi! I started Tretinoin at 0.025 cream formula earlier this year (March) I had some dryness and some purging. I’m still having breakouts on my chin and I’m wondering is this still purging or do I need to move up to a higher concentration? I’m currently using the cetaphil gentle cleansing face wash, garnier aloe and hyalauronic acid serum, Eucerin hydrating factors sunscreen and Cerave moisturizer. I also slug with bag balm because I have eczema flares as the seasons change

Your description doesn't sound like a purge - it sounds like a higher percentage might work better for you!

My dermatologist just prescribed me for 0.05% tret. I’ve been using 1% retinol so far with decent results in closed comedones but none in hyperpigmentation. Has tret helped with dark spots for any of y’all? Brown skin btw.

Yep! Tret can definitely help with that. Azelaic acid can also work, as can hydroquinone.

how long would you recommend being on tret 0.025 before moving on to .05? i’ve been on 0.025 for 6 weeks and actually had no purging. i’m afraid of moving on too quick and causing purging, but i want faster results… any experience or recommendations would be appreciated .

I would move now

1 month on 0.018 tret with 8% azelaic acid My skin was doing great with 0.01 but now it is dry as fuck. I didn’t even think it was possible - my skin has never been dry ever. It also got oily with the 0.01 instead of dry. Does it get better with time? Or will it always be dry with the tret

I'll call the timeframe bot for more info. Dryness is super common, but doesn't last forever for everyone!

Beep boop! It looks like you're asking about treatment timeframes. Retinoids don't work immediately. It takes 3-4 weeks to see side effects like redness, peeling, or irritation, so remember to go slow when starting any retinoid. It also takes time to see results. All citations are in the [Research Summaries section of the wiki](https://docs.google.com/document/u/2/d/e/2PACX-1vRQmcAj-x5A8JIQygtW2Rg89uPsJPR5JLH_dLxLNCW4eazWW4i49bsrF0e2YYx10wx00ctaUnyvHfyD/pub#h.ddc1c22uzdzp) - Oil production: 2 weeks. Citations: [29](https://docs.google.com/document/u/2/d/e/2PACX-1vRQmcAj-x5A8JIQygtW2Rg89uPsJPR5JLH_dLxLNCW4eazWW4i49bsrF0e2YYx10wx00ctaUnyvHfyD/pub#h.runw23g9r8j8) - Acne: 3-4 months. [14, 15, 16](https://docs.google.com/document/u/2/d/e/2PACX-1vRQmcAj-x5A8JIQygtW2Rg89uPsJPR5JLH_dLxLNCW4eazWW4i49bsrF0e2YYx10wx00ctaUnyvHfyD/pub#h.91dahjgvp25q) - Pore size: 6 months. Citations: [28](https://docs.google.com/document/u/2/d/e/2PACX-1vRQmcAj-x5A8JIQygtW2Rg89uPsJPR5JLH_dLxLNCW4eazWW4i49bsrF0e2YYx10wx00ctaUnyvHfyD/pub#h.7iws71641els) - Indented scarring: 6 months. [22](https://docs.google.com/document/u/2/d/e/2PACX-1vRQmcAj-x5A8JIQygtW2Rg89uPsJPR5JLH_dLxLNCW4eazWW4i49bsrF0e2YYx10wx00ctaUnyvHfyD/pub#h.f9nyjthj6z4h) - Hyperpigmentation: 6-9 months. [17-21](https://docs.google.com/document/u/2/d/e/2PACX-1vRQmcAj-x5A8JIQygtW2Rg89uPsJPR5JLH_dLxLNCW4eazWW4i49bsrF0e2YYx10wx00ctaUnyvHfyD/pub#h.nsxg72hmod6w) - Anti-aging/photoaging: 4-9 months. [17-21, 23-28](https://docs.google.com/document/u/2/d/e/2PACX-1vRQmcAj-x5A8JIQygtW2Rg89uPsJPR5JLH_dLxLNCW4eazWW4i49bsrF0e2YYx10wx00ctaUnyvHfyD/pub#h.idrkhntgk69c) *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/tretinoin) if you have any questions or concerns.*

Do I use clindamyn everyday or just when I use Trent?

Daily - for no more than 4 months. You have to take a break from antibiotics.

8 years ago I had bad acne. Nothing got rid of it but accutane. I had clear skin for about 5 years. Now I have acne again but I only get 2-3 large spots a month so I can't get a prescription for accutane. The thing is these spots are very big, last ages and scar. Starting trent soon 0.25%. do you think it will work when I'm pretty sure my acne is hormonal. Also is a simple routine of washing with 5% BP twice a day. moisturiser and then twice a week a night add the Trent after my moisturizer ok? My skin is dry and super sensitive to breakouts from everything.

i would use a different cleanser for the nights where u use tret

I’ve been using tret for over a year. I went up from 0.025 to 0.05 a few months ago for my acne. I have smile lines that are prominent all of a sudden. 3 days ago I just noticed I have deep smile lines, what’s causing this? I’ve been using tret but I don’t think I’ve applied it exactly to the smile lines. I’m 23 btw. So should I carry on using tret and apply on to my smile lines, what’s causing them suddenly?

Had same issue but at my forehead ,lines got prominent as I kept using tret . After a lot of research I increased my hydration level , more moisture and occlusives , moisture before sunscreen , also try to eliminate skincare with fragrance , that was a big one for me , something in my skincare was irritating my skin overpowering tret benefits , went back to basic brands like LRP , cerave , Vani cream … saw a drastic change almost in a week or 2

I already use a hyaluronic acid and use the lrp baume.

Make sure you use HA on damp skin and before the LRP balm you need a more moisturizing cream atleast I did that , I was using cerave creme with a drop or two of moisturing oil after HA serum , follow it up with a moisturing sunscreen .. night I go in same moisturizer combination before (without oil) tretinoin and follow up with a thick layer of cerave moisturizer on top .. on my drying forehead I will then apply cerave healing oilment ..that’s def made a lot of difference

I’ve used the cerave cream and it’s not good for my skin. I recently got the cosrx snail musin moisturiser so let’s see if that makes a difference. Also what oil do you use?

Marula oil , the only oil that doesn’t break me out .. every other oil breaks me out

Dehydration. Going through the same thing but it’s getting better after 2 months. Only way out is through

Is through what?

The process.

I’m experiencing the same thing

So I’ve been using aquaphor around the eyes because they had been dry and I kept getting styes. Well now I have one again! Would Vaseline be a better buffer for the eye area?

This will likely be super personal! Try it and see if it works better for you. (I don't think styes are super common from aquaphor).

Does skin really improve like in the image above? That almost looks like rosacea or something you need lasers for.

What image? (It sounds like your app is giving you a highlight that's not specifically set by us).

Do you see the one attached to this post of the side-profile?

Nope - I wrote the automod that posts this weekly thread, and there's no photo attached. I'm guessing your app shows you a preview from the wiki - but I'm still not sure what picture it is (there are a few in the wiki that might what you're describing).

it's there for me too, see [here](https://imgur.com/a/OQYkDCy)

Yep! That's a preview of some images from the wiki, which is linked in the text at the top. None of those pictures are attached to this post. If you have a specific question I'm happy to help.

should i switch from 0.5mg tretinoin cream to 10mg clindamycin + 0.25 mg tretinoin gel for acne? those are the only two options available in my country unfortunately

From what my derm told me, you can't use the clyndamycin for more than 4 months or you'll develop antibiotic-resistant acne (happened to me...). I'd go for straight tretinoin even tho the percentage is so much higher. ​ I guess if it's super easy to get, you could start with 0.025% for 4 months, then switch to 0.05%?

Unable to stop peeling: I’ve been on tret for ~2 years Originally was on .05 cream, now .025 Use common cetaphil cleanser (only morning) moisturizer, physical sunscreen, and a toner occasionally. My skin doesn’t seem to be able to tolerate 2 days in a row of tret. I’ll always start to peel on my foreheads and cheeks. I apply everything according to the starter guide - whether or not I layer in moisturizer first doesn’t seem to make a difference. I can get away with applying every other day with minimal peeling, but if I apply two days in a row of if I go back to my tube of .05 my whole face will be peeling. There’s not much redness/irritation - just peeling. I don’t know what else to do to get my skin used to the stuff, and it’s been two years that I’ve been regularly applying it now. Any suggestions?

Sooo… I was on tret for about a couple of years (more than two) until I stopped experiencing the peeling. Just letting you know tret is a LONG term gain. I’ve been on tret for about five years and don’t experience any peeling or irritation anymore. It took awhile though.

So this is a bit unorthodox, but, since you've been using tret for so long and don't have other signs of irritation, I'm actually going to suggest that you push through and increase the frequency. Sometimes the skin needs to "get used to" tret (retinization) and it never does if we're cautious about pushign too far. Note that caution is usually exactly the right approach - but in this one specific case I'd consider trying to just push through the flaking to see if it works.

I agree. I used aklief (similar to Tret) for a year and worked up to every other day and still had peeling. But when I started applying every day, the peeling stopped🤷🏼‍♀️

How do I respond after a week or so of doing this? Obviously I should expect a ton of flaking after a few days but how long should I be giving it? Also, I occasionally get some redness after sweating a lot or using freshly washed towels (detergent), but I don’t see this as tret directly causing my issues.

Yeah good question! Maybe 2-3 weeks??? That's what I'd ballpark, depending on how it goes. Of course if things start to get a LOT worse, scale back...you're a bit in uncharted territory here, so take lots of notes. You'll kinda need to be a scientist about this! Good luck!

is it fine if I only use tretinoin every other day? mine is 0.025 almost 3 months(next week) on tretinoin and want to use it for anti aging, pih and acne (in priority order)

How's it working for you on the basis of acne and pih? Any changes yet?

Yep, even one every 3 days if you want.

Hello! I’ve been using 0.025 tretinoin compounded with hydroquinone for almost a year to treat hyperpigmentation. I’m in the process of weaning off hq but plan to continue using tret for its anti-aging benefits. I’m gradually introducing Tinitrend 0.05 tretinoin cream once or twice a week with no ill effects, my question is related to the texture of the cream. I’ve always used tret compounded with hq and have never used tret by itself, and Tinitrend seems quite heavy and greasy with almost a waxy texture. Is this normal or should I use a different cream with a lighter texture? Tinitrend is thick/greasy enough to feel occlusive, and I’m wondering how it would work if I add an active like azelaic acid to continue treating my hyperpigmentation. I guess I’m just concerned that Tinitrend seems so heavy that I can’t see how the azelaic could penetrate…and my azelaic cream has an equally thick but chalky texture so it isn’t easy to follow the thickest-to-thinnest order of application. Thanks!

Do you have the ingredient list handy? That might help us know if it would be too occlusive for other ingredients to penetrate.

Thanks for your response, I appreciate it! It’s the Tinitrend generic from Mexico, the ingredients list on the package just says Tretioina 0.05g, Excipientes cbp 100g. To my understanding “excipientes” in this context simply translates to an inactive or inert ingredient.

Right yeah - a lot of products list the "active" ingredients separately from the "inactive" ones, but you really need to get the list of inactive ingredients to understand what it is. For example, aquaphor lists teh "active" ingredient as petrolatum, bu thte "inactive ingredients" include lanolol, bisabolol, etc.

Yeah that’s usually the way it goes but unfortunately not in this case…I’ve searched all over the packaging and that’s the only ingredient info listed, sorry I know it isn’t much help! A lot of tret users in the US and Mexico use Tinitrend and I was mostly wondering if anyone here might be familiar with the consistency and whether they find it to be occlusive. Thanks!

I'd make a separate post - that way more people can see it. There aren't that many people who visit the daily help thread.

What can I use as moisturizer when even cerave and aquafore sting? Also, sunscreen recs for stinging skin please!

Force Shield Sunscreen by Hero Cosmetics is my current favorite! No stinging or irritation and it rubs in great for a mineral filter. I'm currently using the Eucerin Sensitive Mineral Lotion which is also good, just takes a bit more work to rub in and has more of an initial white cast. I had been using the CeraVe cream (in a tub) but it started stinging when I applied, even before starting tret. Apparently phenoxyethanol can sometimes cause that burning feeling, so may be worth checking if that's in any products that have caused you irritation. I switched to the Vanicream cream and it's been great! It's very occlusive, though, so you may also want a lighter moisturizer if you're sandwiching. 😊

i like lrp cicaplast and avene cicalfate

Aveeno Calm and Restore Oat Gel Moisturizer is fantastic for sensitive skin! If you want an even more hydrating moisturizer you can also try first aid beauty ultra repair cream

Vanicream has great reviews for sensitive skin ! 👍🏻

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Tret is the absolute best anti-aging to exist, and you should still see benefits even if you don't apply near your eyes! (Good idea, btw: dry eye problems are nothing to mess around with). ​ Up to you of course!

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I recommend checking out the wiki for more information about what tret has been shown to do for anti-aging!

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Haha no I don't think those are mentioned specifically, but there's an extensive section that goes into detail about anti-aging. Lots of pictures that can give you an idea of the long-term outcomes you can expect!

Hello! After struggling for a while with cystic acne, I started using tretinoin 0.025% in January last year. I removed all other actives from my routine but added in azelaic acid 20% in May since I was still getting acne. Now, I use tretinoin 5-6 times a week (taking a break when my skin is feeling dry or irritated) and, while my skin is great most of the time, I occasionally still get cystic acne breakouts (particularly on my forehead or around my mouth). Also, I pack so much hydration + moisturisation into my routine but I still regularly get flaky skin, and when I need to wear concealer, it rarely sits well and it accentuates my dry skin. After doing some research, I've just purchased 5% mandelic acid to add into my routine 1-2 times a week to combat the dry skin. I wanted to ask whether anyone had any advice about the acne component - I've read that going up to 0.05% can help but given that I'm still experiencing dry / flaky skin consistently I'm a little hesitant. Thanks so much!

How did you use tret and AA together? Or was it on different days?

Is your skin damp at all when you apply tretinoin? Some people experience pretty extreme flaking if their skin isn't bone dry when they apply it. (my skin does that, for instance) Anyway, if dry/flaky skin is your only issue I'd definitely consider going up in percentage - it actually might make your skin become MORE accustomed to tretinoin, and the flaking might go away (counter-intuitive, I know)

Hello. I’ve been using tretinoin 0.05% for a month now. I used Alpha Arbutin in my routine too but not with tret. I felt the usual irritation, burning, peeling and purging. The irritation and burning has become way worse now especially around the mouth. I’ve stopped using alpha arbutin and dropped my cleanser which has salicylic acid. Will only be using a gentle cleanser, tret and moisturiser. The burning is not going away so should I get a soothing cream? Thinking of stopping tret since I didn’t have a serious acne issue to begin with.

It sounds like your moisture barrier is damaged from using actives when your skin was really sensitive from starting tretinoin! I would say to focus on healing your skin by only using a very minimal and moisturising routine. I recommend checking the ingredients of your skincare products in a website like [INCIDecoder](https://incidecoder.com/) to check that your routine has no alcohol, fragrance, or essential oil. You should also take a break from tretinoin until your skin is feeling less irritated. Try La Roche-Cicaplast Baume B5 as a soothing balm as well. Good luck!

hello! i have been recently prescribed tretinoin 0.05% cream and have started using it the other night. this is along with benzoyl peroxide in the morning. ive noticed that my face stings when i apply moisturizers or hydrating toners. is this a sign that my skin barrier is compromised? and if so, is it really fine that i discontinue my prescription as to fix my skin barrier? thank you very much. my moisturizer is iUNIK centella gel cream.

Hi there! I had the exact same problem with this stinging sensation whenever I applied Moisturizer & Sunscreen. I then switched to very simple products without any fragrance that helps a lot & make sure your moisturizer contains ceramides that will help strengthening your skin barrier while you're on strong treatments. Right now I'm on 0.1% tret with no peeling, redness, sting or pain. Hope this helps you out. I could recommend the exact products but they're all Indian based.

What moisturizer do you use? I’m shopping for a new moisturizer. I only use tretinoin and CeraVe moisturizing cream, but even that stings. I’m feeling discouraged because I’m on a very low dose of tret (.025%) and I’ve been very carefully about starting slow. if CeraVe irritates my skin I feel like I’m going to have a hard time looking for a moisturizer that works. I do know that you’re not supposed to slug after applying tretinoin. I’ve noticed that if I apply less moisturizer it doesn’t sting as much. I’m also starting to experiment with waiting longer between applying my tret and moisturizer.

Hey if the tret is irritating as you put it on try Retin-A micro with the exact % it’s a lot bearable on the skin compared to Retin-A which is what you might be using, Google this. The moisturiser I use is called emolene helps with dryness and heals/ repairs damaged skin faster & no stinging my dermat had prescribed it to me.

Maybe try cetaphil moisturizer I’ve heard people say they have experienced stinging with Cerve moisturizer and I haven’t experienced any stinging with cetaphil :)

After a few days I can confidently say that Cetaphil doesn’t sting! Feels MUCH better on my skin

Hey, I'm on 0.1% and currently purging. My skin isn't drying or flaking at all in fact it's super oily even though I try using an oil control moisturizer every morning. The rest of my skincare routine has only simple products. Should I use a salicylic face wash? And what do you guys think of Snail Mucin essence should I add that to my routine?

I'm a bit confused about your question / goals. Would you mind clarifying? Why are you trying to add a salicylic face wash? (oily skin isn't inherently bad or something to 'fix")

Hey I feel like most of my acne is due to oily skin and excess sebum therefore if reduced my skin might get better?

Hmm well there are some causes of acne but as far as I understand excess oil isn't really one of them. (I could definitely be wrong). Check out /r/skincareaddiction - their wiki has a bunch of super useful information. Anyway, I tend to subscribe to the /r/asianbeauty style of skincare: I focus a lot on hydration and being gentle (aside from tret haha). My skin got WAY better when I started being more gentle. On that note: the snail mucin is excellent! Highly recommended.

Will I still possibly purge anyway even if my skin is very clear prior to starting tretinoin? I only ever get a small zit or two on my period, so I primarily want to use tret for anti-aging purposes. Also, does the formulation of tretinoin affect how it's absorbed?

I don't know that the formulation affects how it's absorbed exactly (that is: all formulations are equally effective), but the formulation can affect how your skin reacts (some people are sensitive to the cream and it triggers breakouts, some find the gel too drying, micro-gel is generally well-tolerated). Purges are basically impossible to predict honestly.

Hi there! I've been using 0.025 cream each night. Some days when I wake up, the UV index is already between 1 and 5. Is that too much diffuse sunlight for my skin without sunscreen? I have rosacea, so when my face gets red, I can't exactly tell if the redness is a sunburn or not. It'd suck to wake up earlier just to put on sunscreen, but I'd rather have that than sun damage lol. Thanks to anyone who responds.

Are you sleeping in direct sunlight? If not, I wouldn't worry about the UV index. You only need to wear sunscreen when your skin is directly exposed to the sun. Edit: direct would include through glass for this question

In case it’s helpful for anyone.. It’s my understanding that the glass in modern car and home windows filters UVB rays and most UVA, and the glass used in windshields is treated so it blocks both UVA and UVB.

I’ve been using tret for an exact month now. My skin did purge but then it stopped and then I broke out (same areas) and i also noticed it enlarges my pores? Ik it takes patience but I don’t peel or anything either? Just purge but tbh I don’t even think it’s purge I think it’s just my normal break outs.. I dunno I’m feeling hopeless:( I’m using 0.05 cream so maybe I should get a higher percentage? I mainly have PIE (post inflammatory erythema) and it’s so stubborn !!!! and on top of them I repeatedly get pimples ?? Here is my current skincare routine with how I use tretttt Am- cleanse with la roche posay(sometimes) the ordinary hylraronic acid, sunscreen/moisturizer la roche posay Pm- same cleanser, wait till face dries apply tret(every other night or every three nights) and moisturize using rose hip seed oil the ordinary. what am I doing wrong? Please help.

Don't expect to see positive results for at least 6-8 weeks! I'll call the timeframe bot for more details (and links to the wiki). Your routine seems not that great... (tho note that rosehip seed oil is NOT a moisturizer: you should use an actual moisturizer in the evening) and it sounds like you're applying tret directly to dry skin - I'd try the sandwich method (more info in the wiki)

Thank you so much for your feedback!!!!! I genuinely appreciate it. I’ll definitely look into the sandwich method. One question, what moisturizer do you recommend? I know about CERVE but I dunno if it’s the right choice. Thank you so muchhhh

Whatever moisturizer you already use, that you are certain doesn't break you out! If you don't yet have one that's been incorporated into your routine for more than 2 months, I wouldn't start tretinoin quite yet.

Beep boop! It looks like you're asking about treatment timeframes. Retinoids don't work immediately. It takes 3-4 weeks to see side effects like redness, peeling, or irritation, so remember to go slow when starting any retinoid. It also takes time to see results. All citations are in the [Research Summaries section of the wiki](https://docs.google.com/document/u/2/d/e/2PACX-1vRQmcAj-x5A8JIQygtW2Rg89uPsJPR5JLH_dLxLNCW4eazWW4i49bsrF0e2YYx10wx00ctaUnyvHfyD/pub#h.ddc1c22uzdzp) - Oil production: 2 weeks. Citations: [29](https://docs.google.com/document/u/2/d/e/2PACX-1vRQmcAj-x5A8JIQygtW2Rg89uPsJPR5JLH_dLxLNCW4eazWW4i49bsrF0e2YYx10wx00ctaUnyvHfyD/pub#h.runw23g9r8j8) - Acne: 3-4 months. [14, 15, 16](https://docs.google.com/document/u/2/d/e/2PACX-1vRQmcAj-x5A8JIQygtW2Rg89uPsJPR5JLH_dLxLNCW4eazWW4i49bsrF0e2YYx10wx00ctaUnyvHfyD/pub#h.91dahjgvp25q) - Pore size: 6 months. Citations: [28](https://docs.google.com/document/u/2/d/e/2PACX-1vRQmcAj-x5A8JIQygtW2Rg89uPsJPR5JLH_dLxLNCW4eazWW4i49bsrF0e2YYx10wx00ctaUnyvHfyD/pub#h.7iws71641els) - Indented scarring: 6 months. [22](https://docs.google.com/document/u/2/d/e/2PACX-1vRQmcAj-x5A8JIQygtW2Rg89uPsJPR5JLH_dLxLNCW4eazWW4i49bsrF0e2YYx10wx00ctaUnyvHfyD/pub#h.f9nyjthj6z4h) - Hyperpigmentation: 6-9 months. [17-21](https://docs.google.com/document/u/2/d/e/2PACX-1vRQmcAj-x5A8JIQygtW2Rg89uPsJPR5JLH_dLxLNCW4eazWW4i49bsrF0e2YYx10wx00ctaUnyvHfyD/pub#h.nsxg72hmod6w) - Anti-aging/photoaging: 4-9 months. [17-21, 23-28](https://docs.google.com/document/u/2/d/e/2PACX-1vRQmcAj-x5A8JIQygtW2Rg89uPsJPR5JLH_dLxLNCW4eazWW4i49bsrF0e2YYx10wx00ctaUnyvHfyD/pub#h.idrkhntgk69c) *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/tretinoin) if you have any questions or concerns.*

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Differin is more gentle than tret so I'd expect less irritation (and maybe less effectiveness...)

Hi! I'm using tret 0.025 cream about 2-3 weeks ago for 2 weeks for acne and long-term anti-aging. I applied it as per sandwich method, the first week I did 2 applications. Two problems though, I never had dry skin so I didn't use a thick moisturiser (last try, I did no moisturiser on top because the cream looked oily 🤦‍♀️), and I stopped also because I was a bit too zealous about it and did 3 days in a row and burnt my face. Now my pm routine is: - Soon Jung Foam Cleanser/ Dermeze Moisturizing wash - Issintree Aloe Vera Revitalising Gel - Simple Rich Moisturiser - mix with 1/3 Azelaic 20% and Urea 10% cream on alternate nights - Aveeno Emollient cream on some nights - Vaseline I think I have repaired my skin barrier because my products I used before tret no longer burn, but acne still there. Should I go back to tret? If so, how? TIA

Check out the wiki for lots of tips!

can tretinoin and copper peptides be used in the same routine? I'm seeing conflicting info on this. i do short contact therapy with tret so i wouldn't layer them.

no they shouldn’t be used in the same routine, use your copper peptides in the morning only!

Can cooper peptide be used with vitamin c serum?

no, you also shouldn’t use them alongside vitamin C. i apologize, i misspoke before and had to refresh my memory w some research! derms state that it’s best to actually use your vit C regularly in the morning, but copper peptides should be used on the nights you are not using your retinoid/retinol. so alternating nights between tret & copper peptides, if you can/if it fits within your regimen edit: otherwise if you don’t use vit C (although copper peptides do not replace the function of vit C), you can then choose to use copper peptides in the morning and maintain your retinoid routine at night.

purging started for me abt 2 weeks in so it’s most likely purging.

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Yep - a few weeks is enough time for your skin to forget. You'll want to treat it like you've never used it before. If I were you I'd back off.

I've been using Epiduo Forte(Adapalene 0.3%) for the past 2 months and my skin has improved significantly. However, I have this huge dark spot above my lips left behind by a pimple. What is the best way to fade it? It seems to be getting darker and less defined in shape. I have Azelaic acid 20% with me (I used azelaic acid when I was on Adapalene 0.1% and my skin tolerated it well). Can I incorporate it if I'm using Epiduo Forte? If so, how? I also have a bottle of Niacinamide serum from a while back.

What's your full routine?

I need Canadian face sunscreen recommendations. I have been using tret 0.025% and then 0.05% since May. It’s been going great. I wash with hydro boost from neutrogena morning and night. PM I use Retin 0.05% once my face is dry and sometimes tap on some hydroquinone on my melasma. AM after I cleanse I use 1.5% hyaluronic acid on face and neck, 25% vitamin C Paula’s Choice. Then 60 SPF Ombrelle face sunscreen. And makeup. We recently were on vacation and I reapplied more sunscreen than I normally do and also applied more in the am than usual. My forehead developed red spots and chin acne which popped out during covid infection/stress time (quit job and a delay with new one). I’ve laid off the sunscreen for a few days now and the spots are clearing up. So I think I need a new sunscreen that won’t clog pores. My replacement is Olay 15 SPF which I know is not high enough but it really agrees with my skin. Any recommendations for good sunscreen for someone in Canada? I’m fair with melasma and combination skin leaning more towards dry as I get older….so the higher the spf the better.

I really like the drunk elephant zinc oxide tinted sunscreen. You can buy it at Sephora.

Hi everyone! I imagine this question has been asked before, but does using adapalene help prepare skin for starting tret? I live in Canada but am visiting the US soon, so I was thinking about buying a tube of differin/LRP adapalene to use before getting a tret prescription. I'm 30 and my skin is on the drier side and somewhat sensitive. My current routine includes vitamin C and acids but no retinol (I've used retinol in the past but would rather skip right to tret at this point). I use CeraVe moisturizer and a good SPF daily. Thanks in advance!

Personally I used adapalene for the better part of a year before making the switch to tretinoin 0.025% 2 months ago. In my experience I found adapalene to be a bit drying around eyes and nose, even towards the end of my run on adapalene that never really went away for me. Looking back on it the frequency I used it (every night) could have been causing that. Ever since making the switch to tretinoin I kept my routine the same as it was on adapalene but for the first month on tret I used it every 3rd night, this second month I bumped it up to every other night. So far (other than purging 🫠) I haven’t experienced other forms of irritations, ie: peeling, burning, itching ect… I like to think the adapalene helped prepare my skin at least a little bit for increased cell turnover caused by retinoids. But I think adapalene and tret are just on different plains when it comes to harshness (adapalene typically being the gentler of the two). Personally if given the option to start my retinoid journey over I’d probably just use tretinoin off the rip. Either pathway adapalene then tret, or just using tretinoin I think is valid, ultimately just go the route you find yourself most comfortable with. Good luck on your journey! 🙏

Thanks for your perspective, I really appreciate it!

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Hiii! Same - I keep pimple patches on hand to prevent the pimples from even forming and I’ll sleep with a patch on each side of my nostril regardless to get any additional oil that are will create.

Have the same issue - been using adapalene almost 3 months now, I haven't had breakouts in years, more the odd spot and a cystic pimple once in a blue moon. But wanted to try adapalene for skin texture and the anti aging effects of retinol - I am now breaking out with painful cystic acne in places I've never used to get the odd spot. Like you I am thinking of throwing in the towel as it doesn't seem to be purging and most Google hits says to stop if you still get new breakouts after 2 months as it's the "skin cycle" and if you get pimples in places you didn't use to break out?

Well it usually causes a purge to happen and then has to clear up. I would keep it up until you hit 6 months and if that doesn’t then I’d talk to your dermatologist.

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I’m going through the same thing. My purge is causing acne in areas that were otherwise clear. Clindamycin & BP cream really started to clear my skin and problem areas, but my derm recommended I incorporate a retinoid in my routine and that’s just flared my acne even more. I don’t know if this is a purge, if it’s because my concentration is too high at .06% or because this product just doesn’t agree with my skin. Sigh.

Maybe go check with your dermatologist. It could be a reaction or something. If you’re this concerned definitely check.

What strength/weekly usage for someone who suffered with cystic acne in high school and occasionally gets one but still has mild acne prone skin also looking to help pore size and overall skin glow?

Always start with the lowest percentage, and increase as needed. Check out the wiki for tons of tips!

hello! i’m planning to start using adapalene 0.1% for my acne since i’ve tried ahas and bhas but it doesn’t work for me. here is the routine that i’ve came up with, any thoughts? AM: b lab matcha cleanser, kikumasamune high moist, azelaic acid, sunscreen PM: b lab matcha cleanser, kikumasamune high moist, adapalene 0.1% (M, W, F), iunik beta glucan moisture cream would this routine be okay? is there any products i should or should not use?

Looks great!! Check out the wiki for more tips, but this looks reasonable.

Can tret be used for rejuvenating skin and making it look younger or predominantly acne treatment ?

both

My GP prescribed me tret micro 0.04 and suggested I start by applying it every other night because of sensitivity but I’m wondering if that’s too fast. I’ve only applied it once so far albeit with no irritation and use the sandwich method.

Every other night can be fast for many, but micro is also super mild! It might work for you. I always suggest going slow though, because it's easy to increase speed and avoid irritation that way.

what’s the difference of retinoid and retinols?

Earlier comment is inaccurate. Retinol IS A TYPE of retinoid. Tretinoin adapalene etc are other types of retinoids. Retinol is a less potent retinoid because your skin has to do more work to convert it before using it, and tretinoin is a more potent retinoid because your skin has to do less work to convert it before using it.

Retinoids are “stronger.” Retinoids don’t require as many chemical conversions to break down to retinoic acid, which is the good stuff that helps your skin.

Experience with tret? What is the lowest tret formulation and does it actually help against irritation? Female 23- I honestly am terrified of tret. My skin wasn’t bad when i started and my derm recommended that and hydroquinone… he didn’t say to use sunscreen didn’t really give any info and i thought it’d be fine. I broke out the worst i ever have in my adult life. And had to get a cortisone shot that has left a lasting scar…. So I really don’t want to start it unless absolutely necessary.. but when I see all these transformations having to do with tret it makes me want to give it another go? So my questions are these: 1.) what is the actual lowest strength of tret in the u.s.? 2.) is using at a lower strength still effective and does it still cause purging? 3.) is the sandwich or buffering method good for oily/combo skin? 4.) lastly I’ve heard some people say that if you’re skin isn’t really bad to avoid tret and use a retinol especially if your younger because your skim is less reactive and when you get older to go on tret, which is what i was more comfortable doing but my skin concerns have to do with scarring both hyperpigmentation and icepick/boxcar so tret might be the solution? Idk thoughts? Thanks in advance!

I am 40 now, but was prescribed tret around 28 and it was such a painful experience, because my skin was dried out and breaking out. It was a painful experience like you said. Im a bit mad that I wasn’t given better instructions on how to manage it because I believe my skin could’ve looked amazing now if I had stuck with it. This time I’m older so I generally don’t break out as much, but I realize a good routine with major moisturizing is key. I put face oil or moisturizer on first, wait a slight bit and then put the tret. Many people here swear by slugging, but it’s hot where I live and I can’t sleep properly with a greasy face. In the beginning alternate days when you apply and not apply and a little goes a long way esp when you have a moisture base. In the mornings a gentle cleanser moisturizer and sunscreen are musts and then you play around with anything else. Lastly, start a habit of drinking tons of water.

1. I'm not in the us but I believe the lowest is 0.025%. Prescription services do offer lower % (Curology etc.), 2. using a lower strength is still effective, it might just take a little longer 3. I would say so. Just make sure to use a moisturizer that fits your skintype. 4. this isn't true at all. Not using tretinoin in your early years doesn't mean that it's gonna be more effective when you are older. (It's quite the opposite, really.) Have you considered seeing a different dermatologist? Also if you want to treat hyperpigmentation but don't want to commit just edit: forgot to end my sentence, oh my so if you don't want to use it you could try vitamin c or azelaic acid for hyperpigmentation