Topical Retinoids

A derivative of vitamin A, topical retinoids are a prescription acne medication used for mild to moderately severe inflammatory acne. They effectively unclog pores, allowing other topical medications such as antibiotics to enter the hair shaft and fight acne. Retinoids also help to reduce acne outbreaks by preventing dead skin cells from clogging pores.

Some topical retinoids offer the added benefit of diminishing the signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles.

As with other topical acne medications, retinoids are available in creams, gels and liquid form.

Retinoids can, however, cause irritation and increased sun sensitivity. So be sure to use sun protection and follow your doctor's advice.

Types of Topical Retinoids

Adapalene

Applied as a cream or gel, Adapalene is a synthetic retinoid that unclogs pores. Adapalene also displays a range of moderate to potent anti-inflammatory effects.
It usually takes about 8 to 12 weeks to see improvements in your skin's condition. Side effects can include minor skin irritation and or dryness.

Tazarotene

Proven effective in treating acne, this synthetic retinoid is available in a gel or cream form and works by keeping your skin pores clear. You may experience some skin irritation.
Women who are pregnant should not take this medication and effective contraception is needed during a course of tazarotene treatment because it has produced birth defects in animals.

Tretinoin

A natural retinoid and the first developed for topical use, tretinoin gradually unplugs pores and then keeps them unplugged. This both prevents new comedones (blocked pores that result in whiteheads and blackheads) from forming and allows a topical antibiotic to enter the follicle and continue the healing process.
Patients in the past have found tretinoin too harsh for their skin. Today, however, newer, less irritating formulas are available. Side effects can include redness, scaling, dryness, itching and burning.
If you experience any of these side effects, talk to your dermatologist. By working with you to adjust the amount of tretinoin you apply and when you apply it, the dermatologist can help you minimize the side effects and speed the healing process.

Temporary Side Effects

Sometimes, after the initial application of a topical retinoid medication, your skin can look worse before it gets better. It is not uncommon to experience stinging, burning, redness, peeling, scaling or skin discoloration. These side effects usually decrease or go away after the medicine is used for a period of time. Ask your dermatologist what to expect. If you suffer severe side effects you should contact your doctor immediately and together review the course of treatment.

Follow Directions

It is always important to follow your doctor's advice on how to apply the medicine and how often to use it. Overuse can lead to skin irritation and in some instances other side effects.