Retinoids are a group of synthetic and naturally occurring Vitamin A compounds and derivatives which are renowned for helping improve skin tone, texture and clarity. A range of cosmetic and prescription retinoids are available including over-the-counter and prescription tretinoin cream uk.
In order to use tretinoin, your doctor or dermatologist will need to issue you with a prescription. You can obtain this prescription easily through the internet at UK Meds after completing a free online consultation with a doctor or dermatologist, which is approved instantly.
According to Alicia, a good candidate for tretinoin is someone who has tried over-the-counter retinol and retinyl palmitate but isn’t seeing results. It is also a good option for people with mild acne, as it can help heal the pimples, reduce their appearance and even fade the dark spots they leave behind.
Alicia says that a qualified dermatologist will usually start you on a low percentage, like 0.0015% tretinoin, to build your tolerance to the treatment. It’s also important to cut out any exfoliants (including glycolic, lactic and salicylic acid) from your skincare routine as these can interfere with how well the tretinoin works. Adding a simple, bland moisturiser to your regimen can also help.
Using tretinoin can cause some side effects such as skin dryness, flaking, redness and excessive peeling. If you notice any of these symptoms your healthcare professional may tell you to apply it less frequently or stop the treatment altogether, depending on your individual tolerance. Ensure that you are using SPF 30 and above, as tretinoin makes your skin more sensitive to UV rays. tretinoin cream uk