Retin-A Gel (Tretinoin)

Do’s

• Wash your hands thoroughly before applying the medication.
• Cleanse the affected area with a gentle cleanser and pat it completely dry.
• Apply a pea-sized amount of the gel in a thin layer to the affected area, once daily at bedtime (unless your healthcare provider instructs differently).
• Use a gauze pad or cotton swab for application (if applicable).
• Follow the specific instructions on the label or consult your healthcare provider if unsure about waiting time after cleansing.
• Be very cautious around the eyes. Rinse thoroughly with water if the medication gets in your eyes.
• Use the medication consistently as directed. It can take 8-12 weeks to see improvement.

Don'ts

• Don't apply the medication to your eyes, nose, mouth, or inner lip area.
• Don't Use Retin-A Gel on broken, sunburned, or irritated skin.
• Don't increase the dosage or use it more often than prescribed. This won't improve results faster and might cause irritation.
• Don't stop using the medication abruptly if you've been on it for a long time. Talk to your healthcare provider first.
• Don't expect immediate results. Be patient, it can take time to see improvement.

Common side effects:

• Warmth or stinging sensation upon application
• Skin redness
• Dryness
• Itching
• Scaling
• Mild burning
• Changes in the color of the skin

Serious side effects that may require immediate medical attention include:

• Severe burning, stinging, or irritation of treated skin
• Severe redness, swelling, blistering, peeling, or crusting of the skin
• Signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Retin a gel,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Tell your healthcare provider about any allergies you have, especially to tretinoin, other retinoids, or any ingredients in the product (which may include fish proteins).

Inform your healthcare provider if you have eczema before using tretinoin.

Tretinoin increases sun sensitivity. Minimize sun exposure, avoid tanning booths and sunlamps, use sunscreen daily, and wear protective clothing outdoors. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get sunburned.

While using tretinoin, avoid electrolysis, waxing, and chemical hair removal methods on the treated areas.

Before any surgery, inform your healthcare provider about all medications you use, including tretinoin.

Tretinoin may harm an unborn baby. Discuss risks and benefits with your healthcare provider before using it if you are pregnant. It is unknown if tretinoin passes into breast milk. Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding.