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Problem: I have been using Retin-A Micro
and although I love the positive effects it has on my
blemishes and blackheads, I don't know how much longer
I can tolerate the dryness and flaking it causes. My dermatologist
mentioned that Tazorac may be a better option for me,
but this sounds similar to tretinoin, so I'm apprehensive.
Will I be able to use tretinoin without negative side
effects, or am I doomed to skin that's blemish-free but
dry as the Sahara Desert?
Solution: Tretinoin therapy has always
been somewhat of a double-edged sword. Users often love
the results they get from using prescription tretinoin
products but side effects such as dry, flaky, reddened
skin can occur, and are sometimes severe enough that the
patient has no choice but to discontinue using it. Tretinoin
is one of several retinoids, a group of ingredients derived
from vitamin A. All forms of Retin-A and Renova contain
tretinoin in varying concentrations. Most dermatologists
begin their patients on the mildest strength tretinoin
and increase the strength only if no results are seen
(which is rare). Tazorac contains the retinoid tazoratene,
while the prescription product Differin contains another
retinoid, adapelene. All of these products have legitimate
research showing that they are effective in reducing blemishes
and blackheads. However, which prescription retinoid is
gentlest on skin is up for debate, and often depends on
the unique relationship of the subject's skin to the particular
retinoid. All retinoids can cause irritation or provoke
a sensitizing reaction, but exactly how you will react
to the various retinoids or which one will be the most
effective for you can only be determined by experimentation.
Because you have had problems with Retin-A Micro, I strongly
suggest you try other retinoid options to see how they
work for you. Your dermatologist was on the right tract
by suggesting Tazorac as an alternative to Retin-A. There
is no guarantee you will not have the same problems with
Tazorac, but it's worth trying in the hopes that your
skin will respond favorably. You may also want to consider
Differin (available in cream or gel form). Keep in mind
that many patients who use retinoids tend to apply too
much at once, under the assumption that if a little bit
works well, more must work better or faster. Yet that
is not the case with retinoids. Applying more Retin-A,
Tazorac, or Differin than what is recommended per use
will not net you better or faster results, but will very
likely cause more pronounced side effects, particularly
dry, flaky skin. In general, a pea-sized dab of any of
these retinoid medications is all you need for the entire
face. With careful adherence to the application instructions,
diligent use of sunscreen, and a willingness to experiment
with the various prescription retinoids available, it
is quite possible you will find the solution your skin
needs to reap the rewards of retinoid therapy without
the unsightly, uncomfortable side effects.
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