What To Know About Topical Retinoids for Acne?
Retinoid is a form of vitamin A that helps to even skin tone, smooth fine lines and wrinkles, unclog pores, and treat acne.
If you suffer from moderate to severe acne that does not improve with other treatments, topical retinoids can help. When spread on your skin, retinoids unblock pores and help other medicated creams work better and more effectively.
Topical retinoids decrease acne outbreaks by preventing dead cells from clogging pores. They even reduce the formation of acne scars by reducing outbreaks and clearing acne. It is essential to know that topical retinoids treat oil production and bacteria that cause inflammation and acne. Certain acne medications are available to treat conditions like acne vulgaris, including Topical retinoids, which are commonly used.
What are topical retinoids?
Topical retinoids stimulate the exfoliation of dead skin cells and increase the production of new skin cells. As a result, new cells start pushing dead cells and excess oil out of your blocked pores. Retinoids are highly effective as they have anti-inflammatory properties.
Two ordinary retinoids prescribed for acne are:
- Retin-A
- Tazorac
You can also find retinoids in different forms, including:
- Creams
- Gels
- Ointments
- Foams
You should know that topical retinoids are not similar to retinol. Retinoids are more potent and available only after a doctor’s prescription. You can buy retinol over the counter. They are usually found in anti-aging products.
How do retinoids work for treating acne?
When it comes to different types of acne, Retinoids are the most effective treatment. This is because they stop pimples from forming, stopping them in every direction.
- Retinoids eliminate dead skin cells
- Retinoids promote the growth of healthy skin cells
- Retinoids reduce inflammation
- Retinoids help in decreasing oil production
Before the acne gets better, Retinoids might make your acne a little worse. However, this is normal and means your medicine is working. Make sure you continue the treatment as prescribed by the doctor.
Also, Know: How to get rid of body acne?
What are the benefits of Retinoids?
Retinoids are essential in skincare routines because of their effectiveness on the skin. They not only treat mild to severe acne but also prevent acne scars. They help decrease the signs of ageing, like wrinkles and fine lines.
Apart from treating acne disorder, Retinoids are also helpful in minimizing other skin concerns such as:
- Wrinkles
- Hyperpigmentation
- Liver spots
- Sallowness
How are topical retinoids used?
Your doctor might recommend a low-strength retinoid to avoid irritation of the skin. The doctor can also suggest applying retinoid every other night and slowly using it each night.
Ways to use topical retinoids:
With clean hands, wash your face with a gentle cleanser and water. Now, you can just pat dry your skin and wait 20-30 minutes to ensure it is dried thoroughly.
Apply the retinoid to your affected areas in the same way as your doctor directed.
Cover your entire affected area. It is better to apply the retinoid to the whole face instead of spot-treating acne or uneven skin texture or tone.
Now, follow up with a creamy and rich moisturizer to reduce dryness.
It is usual for acne to worsen during the first week or ten days of applying topical retinoids. Even if your acne gets worse, do not stop using them. When topical retinoids are used regularly, your acne clears within two to three weeks.
What are the common risks and side effects of topical retinoids?
Skin irritation is considered the most common side effect of topical retinoids. You can also experience:
- Burning
- Redness
- Itching
- Peeling
- Dryness
If a higher-strength topical retinoid is used, you are more likely to experience irritation. However, not everyone suffers from irritated skin; people with sensitive skin can get it. If this happens to you, try to reduce the dosage of topical retinoids and add a moisturizer to your skincare routine.
Summary
Thus, topical retinoids are effective treatments for all types of acne. They might cause skin irritation but can be managed easily. Compared to other medicines, topical retinoids are safe as they have little or no side effects. With proper monitoring, topical retinoids can help you deal with acne and attain smooth and shiny skin.
