What is Retin-A?
Retin-A (tretinoin) is a form of vitamin A that helps the skin renew itself. The Retin-A brand of tretinoin is used to treat acne. The Renova brand of tretinoin is used to reduce the appearance of fine wrinkles and mottled skin discoloration, and to make rough facial skin feel smoother.
Health Benefits
Retin-A and Renova are used to improve the appearance of the skin. Tretinoin works by causing the skin cells to turnover more rapidly. The new skin cells that are produced are less likely to be abnormal, which can help to reduce the formation of acne and improve the appearance of wrinkles.
Side Effects
Retin-A and Renova can cause mild to moderate side effects. The most common side effects include skin redness, peeling, dryness, and itching. These side effects are usually temporary and will go away once your body adjusts to the medication.
If you experience more severe side effects, such as blistering or crusting of the skin, you should contact your doctor.
Dosage
Retin-A is available in cream, gel, and liquid form. It is typically applied to the face once a day before bedtime. Renova is available in cream form. It is typically applied to the face once a day at bedtime.
To get the most benefit from Retin-A or Renova, it is important to use them as directed by your doctor. Be sure to wash your hands before and after applying the medication, and avoid contact with the eyes.
If you are using Retin-A or Renova to treat acne, it may take several weeks before you see an improvement in your skin. If you are using Retin-A or Renova to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, it may take up to 12 weeks to see an improvement.
It is important to continue using Retin-A or Renova even if you don’t see an immediate improvement in your skin. Stopping treatment prematurely can cause the acne or wrinkles to come back.
Interactions
Retin-A and Renova can interact with other medications, vitamins, or herbs you may be taking. An interaction is when a substance changes the way a drug works. This can be harmful or prevent the drug from working well.
To help avoid interactions, your doctor should manage all of your medications carefully. Be sure to tell your doctor about all the medications you take, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbs.
Mechanism of Action
Retin-A and Renova work by causing the skin cells to turnover more rapidly. The new skin cells that are produced are less likely to be abnormal, which can help to reduce the formation of acne and improve the appearance of wrinkles.
The exact mechanism of action is unknown.
Pharmacokinetics
After topical application, tretinoin is absorbed through the skin into the bloodstream. Tretinoin is metabolized by the liver and excreted in the urine.
Half-Life
The half-life of tretinoin is about 19 hours.
How long does it take to work?
Retin-A and Renova usually take several weeks to work. If you are using Retin-A or Renova to treat acne, it may take several weeks before you see an improvement in your skin. If you are using Retin-A or Renova to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, it may take up to 12 weeks to see an improvement.
Alternatives to Retin-A and Renova
There are many alternative treatments for acne. Some common treatments include benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and azelaic acid.
If you are looking for an alternative treatment for wrinkles, there are many options available. Some common treatments include retinoids, alpha hydroxy acids, and peptides.
Overdosage
There have been no reports of an overdose with Retin-A or Renova. If you think you may have applied too much medication, contact your doctor.
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call the emergency services. Symptoms of an overdose include:
· red, irritated eyes
· skin that is very dry or crusted
· headaches
· dizziness
· nausea or vomiting
· diarrhea
· chest pain
· irregular heartbeat
