I'm in my fourth week with tretinoin 0.025 and it works incredibly 😭❤️ I don't mind with the purging because when it heals, it glows and make my skin less oily. God luck for everyone who's fighting with acne 💪
Did your acne get worse? If so for how many weeks ? I got the same % of tret and im so scared to use. Do you have any tips for me ? We can use it on acne right ?
@@Icerosegaming Yes. But it only lasts for 3 weeks and it's getting better. I really recommend, just keep going if you're the type of person who want to stop immediately after seeing the purging. Cause tretinoin should be using for at least 3 months to see the acne literally goes away. Just be patient, trust me.
@@diamoamy I apply every other night (after applied it 2 times a week for a month). But if you are a beginner, apply it 2 times a week for a month. So your skin can adapt first. If you use it too often as a beginner, it can make your skin sooo dry. Just be patient. Trust me, I'm in my two months and my skin that used to be so oily becoming normal and smoother. It's getting healthy. I don't even need wearing too much expensive skincare anymore. Don't forget to wear sunscreen everyday 😊
I have been using .1% tretinoin for 20 years. That is my skin care routine along with moisturizer and Tizo-3 sunscreen tinted and non tinted. I have been to several dermatologists and they are amazed on how my skin looks. And a plus, when I go out with my 33 year old son people think we are siblings. I’m 59!
@@andreicallanan1029 prescription from dermatologist. costs me $10 every 30-45 days with insurance. i’ve had cystic acne for about 3 years and it’s cleared me of breakouts over being used for about the last 6 months
I've had really good luck with Tretinoin. I did everything I was supposed to with excellent results. I always use moisturizer first as a barrier before the Tretinoin and it really helped with purging. I've been a nurse for 20 years. I was really into wound care and skin when practicing. Now retired I really want to get into esthetics as a 2nd career. You've inspired me with your content! Your videos are so in depth and informative. Thank you for all your hard work!
Your timeline is very accurate - I am beginning year 3 of (generic Retin-A) Tretinoin (0.05) use . Age spots diminished, fine and nasolabial lines very less noticeable, and skin much tighter. I always use sunscreen lotion of at least 40-60 spf. Honestly, I look ten years younger than I when I started. I really started to see serious results after about 8 months, with gradual improvement thereafter. I now consider it maintenance.
I’ve been using retinoid for 6 months now and starting to lose hope because I don’t see much results. Saw your comment, and now I decided to stick to it!
@@vilmasanpedro1069 Good Girl! It does take time because it works on a deep level...but gradually you will see improvements, it is the grail of anti-aging for skin and is worth it.
I pursued tretinoin after my bike accident where I landed on a car windshield. Following your videos I've been using it for 3 years and must say raised scar tissue and cut marks have mostly disappeared. Everyone compliments me on my skin in amazement that I was even in a car crash.
@@mishalqamar7302 The, raised one's I went to the dermatologist for a series cortisol shots. For the other ones I used tretinoin 3 times a week and on my off days cerave healing ointment. Sometimes I do the cerave night time for the niamacide that helps scars too. It took a while but with diligence the routine worked.
@@paulomilan515 were they hypertrophic/keloid or just raised and puffy ? Mines not hypertrophic just puffy and raised but my derm keeps telling cortisone shot won’t help
I’ve been using tretinoin for years and I swear I had the “retinoid uglies” for almost two years until I discovered your channel and watched almost every video and learnt so much including the fact that tretinoin is easier to tolerate if you moisturise before application. My skin is so much happier and it’s thanks to you. So thank you Dr Dray for all your beautiful nuggets of wisdom
What do you use and how ? 4+ years here .. made me allergic to all skin products and no real noticeable change .. I have clear skin ., i wanted for aging from sun.. i Just stopped using it last week .. just not working .. no “glo”
I peeled like a lizard for months until someone introduced me to slugging with Vaseline. Also, I learned the hard way - a year in - that's it not necessarily the tret for me, but the combination of tret and winter!
I have always had bumpy,rosacia sensitive skin.Started 0.025% 2 years ago.Worked my way up to using it every night after a year.My skin has completely changed.No wrinkles,smoother and no rosacia.I am 70yrs old now and have been told that I look younger.I am just happy to get rid of the skin problems.I also use all Cerve products thanks to Dr Dray videos.
I'm 71 and have Rosacea prone skin that's presently under control. I'm easing into retinols, but afraid to try Tretinoin. What was your routine and products used when you started Tret? I use Paula's Choice skin care, and love it. I have used Cerave but it wasn't as effective for me as PC.
I just started tretinoin.025 on Monday for rosacea. I'm really hopeful it will help me. I'm 51. I'm glad it seems to be helpful for you. To the other commenter, I also use Paula's choice and have been for years. I've had good results and no irritation from their products.
When I first started it was once a week for a month then twice a week for a month an then by 3rd month I could use it everynight.Paula Choice calming product are very good an cerve is so gentle it does not aggravate skin.Have to keep it simple.Sun is the worst so have to protect skin with a good sunscreen.
@@sueproffitt3320 so grateful for your response. Thank you. I’m just wondering now if I should be doing that because I’m making the switch from the CeraVe retinol serum.
Great video! I’ve been using Retin-A for 30 years, started it for acne and realized my skin texture and lines improved dramatically. When I got dry skin, my dermatologist added Lachydrin (12% lactic acid, was prescription product) to my routine. Been using both since, I am almost 60, and nobody can believe it.
@@lisaskywalker8419 I am using .1 creme. But that is too strong for most people. It is also winter here. (less worry about sun damage) In the summer, I use .25 along with sunscreen. ps- it is not retinol (which is over the counter stuff in moisturizer) It is retinoid.
i had horrible acne and the worst self esteem because i thought my skin was too dry/sensitive to use a retinoid. once i found dr. dray, i changed up my techniques and i’ve been wearing my retinoid for over 8 months now and my acne is practically gone
Whoever's thinking about starting retinoid, start it. Best decision you’ll ever make. I started to use mine at Sept 22 & my skin got so much clearer. I didn’t have this kind of acne free, hyperpigmentation free skin since I was 12
This is the BEST thing for those who are going into there 50's. Tretnoinin has kept my skin absolutely smooth and "glass like" - use it every night - wear sunscreen - you'll age with grace and look beautiful. Do it for yourself.
I just love this content from a woman who KNOWS what she is talking about! This may make me sound bad but I really hate to see unqualified people giving advice on these sort of topics, especially prescription meds / topicals. Which are obviously prescription for a reason! Thank you for doing your public service and giving out such honest and informative facts and advice ❤️🌟🥰
I think it's about time "influencers" are held responsible for the info they provide, in general. A good example is the financial influencers who pushed FTX. Can you imagine how many people hurt their skin because of these "experts"
@@sungexpression9093 no, that is the problem, they present themselves as experts in various fields and use their platfom to spead half-assed information a lot of the times. Yes, there are capable ones who do their due dilligence. These people make their money by providing this content, they should be held accountable for it.
@@danaso2567 no they don’t they present themselves as regular ppl with skin issues I like watching regular ppl with everyday skin issues because they often suggest affordable solutions the everyday person can afford
Dr. Dray, I just stopped by to tell you you are amazing. The best dermatologist in UA-cam. And for all the Americans near the border, planning on a vacation, or with Mexican friends who can bring you a little something when visiting family abroad, retin a tretinoin from reputable labs in Mexico does not require a prescription and it costs around 25 bucks. It is sold in all big chain pharmacies in the country. Just saying.
i’ve been using spf daily and the neutrogenia retinol serum 2x a day and at 6 months in i’ve really started to notice a huge difference. my skin is so clear, so bright, and my smile lines are almost non existent! it’s such an amazing product.
I never had purging, probably because my skin isn’t sensitive. My skin when I was a teenager was very acne -prone, but even then, I was religiously applying spf on a daily basis. I started tretinoin back in 2015. I stopped it after a year because I saw great results. Then, I found out that I should use it even after I achieved clear skin. My skin is very smooth and I haven’t had a breakout in over 6 months. I started tretinoin again this week and so far, so good.
Hii is it normal to not have purging?? Because I have some acne marks not active acne and it’s been a month that I’m using tretinoin and I’ve not gone through purging and all like others.
@@Selonie very much so! I started when I was 22, but that was because I just discovered about it. If I discovered it beforehand, I would have probably used it right away. Just make sure to consult with your dermatologist. You need a prescription and they will give you a small dose first and work your way up when you and they fell comfortable with it. My face actually gets extremely dry if you don’t apply a good moisturizer on your skin during your tretinoin routine. So beware of skin shedding. I’ve currently just discovered the best moisturizer for me which was cerave moisturizer. (I started with more expensive brands, but had I known that cerave would be a good fit, I would’ve just used it ever since. Could’ve saved me a lot of money.) So try to do tretinoin and moisturizer after. Or do a sandwich: moisturizer, tretinoin, and another moisturizer on top to stop drying.
@@Selonie my purge is usually very deep skin and some skin peeling. It just means that I need to moisturize more. It only lasted a week because I would apply moisturizer every few hours when I felt a bit dry again. Yours is different but you need to apply spf every two hours on your face btw. Tretinoin makes your skin sensitive because you are having a skin turnover. The skin is extra sensitive because it’s new. If you have makeup on, there are many spf powders available and you can apply that instead. I would recommend spf 30+ or more. I use spf 45. Good luck!
Yes! I’ve been using Tretinoin about 3 months now, and got scared because I noticed more hyperpigmentation after the first few weeks. Now it’s fading, good to know that’s normal. I still have a little peeling, but I have very sensitive skin and mix it with a light lotion.
experiencing this. I have pigmentation, it is darker and I am peeling around my mouth. Just a few acne breakouts but the pigmentation and peeling is worse
I used Retin-A when I was in my 20s for acne red spots. I wanted results fast and I used more than I should have, so I had lots of peeling on my face. Within months all the red spots were almost gone. The purging was bad those few months, but the result was worth it.
I saw results within the first 2-3 weeks! And luckily skipped purging, my acne never got worse, only better. Been using Tretinoin cream daily for about 2 months now and I finally feel confident about my skin after battling severe adult cystic acne for the past 2 years. I felt mad at myself for waiting so long to reach out for help!
Wow! I hope it works on me the same way it worked on you! I am using Epiduo for a month now and my derma recommended me to transition to Tretinoin 0.05%. I’m still waiting for my Epiduo to finish before going into tret and I’m kinda nervous. I hope my acne will fade away by next year🤧🤞🏼
It took me a year, but I love it. My dermatologist recommended Trentinoin to me for my acne and scars. I am 23 years old with PCOS. I only had faced one purged during the first 3 months. I purchased a compounding moisturizer called Vanicream, and mixed a little bit of the moisturizer in with the Trentinoin and started by only applying it once a week. The next month, I applied it twice a week, and so on until I started becoming able to use it everyday. Then my goal was to take out the compounding moisturizer and only use moisturizer at night. This was when I saw the biggest difference. I almost never wear makeup now. My scars color has drastically became more flesh and even some pits have became less. My pores are much smaller. But it’s also great for other things. For example, I had surgery last summer that left me with a nasty red keloid scar right above my pubic bone. One day I had the epiphany that maybe trentinoin would work on that too. So I started applying it on the scar, and massaging it in. Wether it be the action of massaging the scar or Trentinoin itself, the scar is now visibly less dark and not as puffy. I also had really bad and deep “tech neck” lines. I started using Trentinoin on them, and they COMPLETELY vanished. I have to say, that is something I was most impressed with. I recommended it to everyone and now my grandma, aunt, mom, and bestfriend all are using Trentinoin. My grandma is using it because she is prone to getting skin cancer on her face. My aunt too. My mom is using it for dark spots, and my bestfriend is using it on red scars she obtained after pregnancy. I’ve done a lot of research on it, and not everything I read I believe. But one thing is true, is that YOU MUST WEAR SUNSCREEN and moisturize. I have darker, dry skin as it is so I didn’t think it would effect me as bad, but it can be harsh. I have learned my lesson so many times by not wearing sunscreen or moisturizing and having to show up to class with super dry and tight skin, or even raw patches because I didn’t listen.
I am also a 20 yo dark skin complexion woman with PCOS and acne scars. I tried Tret one year ago and it destroyed my face. I don’t know if it’s because of the derma who did an absolute awful job (made me start tret at a high level and frequency w/h using a sunscreen) or it was just my sensitive skin that reacted badly. Now I’m seeing another derma who put me on tret again but at a low level this time. Still is I’m afraid to go through what I went through before… Took me time to repair my skin barrier, now I barely don’t break out anymore but I have very visible scars.. I don’t know if I should try tret again, I’m so afraid.. I now know it to use to minimise irritation and purging but I’m still reluctant to try it again. What would you advise me?
@@guillaumem9953 I would say get a chemical peel, but if your moisture in the skin barrier was disrupted last year from Trentinoin, she probably doesn’t want you to do that. I got a chemical peel before using a low dose of Trentinoin and it lightened/took off about 70% of the scars I had. Scars take a lot of time to heal, and I know using Trentinoin will help them regardless. It’s a year later of consistency for me, with good spf, and good moisturizer and I am just now seeing results that I’m proud with. I don’t even wear makeup anymore. Where I was two years ago, I had so many scars, I wouldn’t dare to leave the house. It’s daunting to think of how long it can take, but after the purge, you will see progress each month. Be patient and consistent! Wear aquaphor on the days you don’t use Trentinoin. And start slow. I know this isn’t the best response and I’m not claiming to be a doctor, this is just what I wish someone would’ve told me when I started. I hope it helps.
How much time does it take for it to decrease my acne if i use it once a week only ? Im so scared of purging. Because i have important events next month. I want better skin in 1 month.
Ditto, I started at 20 and I’m 61. I would see results right away. My esthetician ordered it from Europe. I don’t believe it was on the USA market in 1981. It’s really not about looking younger for me probably not for you either. It’s about having beautiful healthy skin.
Um...it would be hard to look younger than a 30 year old. I'm 48 and have been using retin-a since I was around 32. It definitely helps my skin look smoother and more even. My skin looks great, but I do not think I look younger. I'm just the best version of myself at the age that I am.
15+ years of acne, blemished, uneven skin. No good with dermatologists I visited earlier. Ditched everything, switched to using just adapalene and olive oil the first two weeks. Then started tretinoin after that every alternate day. Dryness and scaling for two or three weeks. Then, my skin cleared up and i dont need anything else other than tretinoin and olive oil now. Thanks Dr. Dray!
Retin A , Tretinoin, Retinol, whichever you call it, is the queen of all skin care creams for anti aging and flawless skin, no doubt about it. I started using this product since I was 30 years old and am still using it until now that I am 72. It works wonder on my skin, and I don’t even think of switching it to other skin care products. I will stick to this cream, Forever. I considered this, a Miracle cream for me!. I am using 0.05% ever since.
@@toeareg100 Yes, you will not notice the changes but people will notice it. Just use it everynight on clean face ( let your face dry for 10 to 15 minutes before applying the cream. You can also apply on your neck but not the lips. Do not put other creams or moisturizer over it. In the morning wash your face and apply your daily moisturizer . Do it routinely, retin A at night and moisturizer at daytime. Your skin peels off after sometime, that's normal. Your pores will disappear, your skin will look smooth and flawless . Be patient for the result.
@@peekabooicu8974 I got lots of praises for my skin. My friends and colleagues thought I am just over 50 y.o but my actual age is 72 going 73 this coming April.
Hi from Germany!! I got prescribed adapalene and bpo last months and I am so excited to see results, thank you for your videos , sadly there is nobody in the german site of youtube with that much information on skincare
I had watched a bunch of your older videos awhile back. Then I just kinda dropped off because I bought some products and left the research phase. Then I remembered you and started watching some new videos. Holy cow! Your hair is amazing. It looks like whatever you are doing has made it thicker, shinier, healthier, etc. I was immediately impacted by it, so in case you lose track of such results over time, know that I really noticed it immediately compared to 2018.
I just turned 28 and I’ve been using tretinoin since I was 18 with sunscreen of course daily and I see a lot of changes I love it! Thanks for your videos your the best dr Dray!
I have been using tretinoin for acne since 2009. This year due to cold temperature of winter, I stopped tretinoin for only 5 days while keeping everything else the same believing that there is no way I can get acne again after all these years. Surprisingly, I broke out badly and quickly revert back to the severe acne that I had before tretinoin treatment. It took me almost 6 weeks of consistent tretinoin use to get my skin back to normal. The moral of the story is that never completely stop using tretinoin if it is for acne especially if you know you are under a lot of stress.
okay everyone on the internet seems to be able to somehow purchase tretinoin even though it is sold only with prescription. Apparently people mostly buy it for wrinkles so not even for acne or anything. So I would appreciate it if someone can share how they purchase it
I just started using Tret .025%. I put the second application on today, my first application was 4 days ago and I instantly noticed the dry feeling and a little flakiness. But I’ve been remoisturizing through the day and honestly the dry feeling I have just makes me excited to know it’s working 😂 can’t wait to see how this goes in the long run!
I’m getting ready to start it, I got 0.05% tretinoin with a additive of 2% hydroquinone because I have hyper pigmentation, I’m so excited, how are you doing today? Do you see improvement?
This is so helpful thank you! Im in my early 30s and started getting really bad acne out of nowhere. Started off using adapeline but it wasn't very effective, so went to my dermatologist and she prescribed me a low dose Trentinoin. After 4 weeks of use and some terrible purging and questioning my life choices, I have to say the results are night and day. Im at 6 weeks of continuous use now and I still get the occasional pimple but it goes away so quickly now. I'll double up with a pimple patch when the white head appears and usually it's flat the next day. Can't wait to see how my skin looks and feels at 6 months!
I started off using Aklief at night and Azelaic Acid in the morning, me and my dermatologist wasn’t happy with the results so she switched me to tazarotene at night and still using Azelaic Acid in the morning. Also she added spironolactone to take every day. I’m finally seeing good results. I also noticed my hair fallout stopped dramatically. I forgot to mention I started seeing my dermatologist because I was dealing with Hormonal acne and hair fall out. I just wana say thank you Dr. Dray for all the great recommendations and tips
My dermatologist prescribed me winlevi in the morning and tazarotene at night. Could you recommend a moisturizer that works well with tazarotene? I have had some peeling and am looking into laroche posay.
@@dzciple4931 no I don’t wash my face in the morning. Using retinoid and washing your face to much will just irritate it. I just rinse my face in the morning and apply moisturizer and sunscreen.
I started using Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair about 3 years ago, I had a lot of dryness and irritation from that because it was the first retinoid I'd ever used. I soon after learned how to properly care for my skin while using a retinoid and started using Adapalene (thanks to you Dr Dray!); I did experience a little bit of flaking, dryness and redness from it but it quickly went away and I learned how often I could use the adapalene and eased into. it. I never did have a horrible purging episode. Now I can use adapalene almost every night without concern and I've been using adapalene for going on 3 years. TODAY I'm switching to tretinoin!! I'm both nervous and excited, wondering how my skin will react to this new and stronger retinoid. My skin definitely looks better 3 years later and I'm excited to see how it improves in the future!!
THANK YOU!! Your videos are always a saving grace! I have learned so much from you over the years. I understand the beauty in keeping skin routine "boring". I was prescribed tretinoin for acne that I have been fighting with for a few years (due to PCOS) and the derm, unfortunately, didn't go over much with me... It's been a few weeks and I was very doubtful due to the purging process I was going through but I knew your content would help me understand what to expect and provide relief. I feel much better about using it consistently! Acne is a disease, it truly affects your mental health and feels like it's never going to get better. Now I see a light at the end of this tunnel. I cannot recommend your channel enough!
I can't believe I wasn't using this all this time. I been using my .0025 for 1 month and it's amazing. My skin wasn't too bad but hormonal acne has leaving marks on my chin. My skin texture is sooooo smooth and my occasional breakout comes and goes with no fuss. My skin is glowing. Why did I not use this for the last decade ☹️
I was confused because I had no irritation , no peeling or purging. A little dry skin, but Nivea sunscreen helps with it. ( 0,5%) I've been using it consistently for about 6 weeks. Dr. D is right, my skin feels smoother! 😲
You're just lucky and everybody is different. I'm on 0.5% too and have only very mild flakes. Not even under my eyes. It's been about 3 years for me. But I did build up slowly and I moisturize before.
Hi Andrea I started using Tret 0.05 three years ago. After one year I started seeing the best results … I used a tiny pea size every night. Less is more. However after 18 months I started getting urticaria on my neck even though I only used tret on my face. I saw a dermatologist who said it may be a side effect of tret ! Even though I wasn’t putting it on my neck! So I came down to 0.025% a much lower percentage! The urticaria went away completely! But I was dreading the results not being so good. So another 18 months of using 0.025% and the results I can say …………. Are just as good and have gotten better and better …. I turn 50 in 2 days. No one can believe it ! Which is nice 👍 so please don’t worry about the lower % !!!! They are just as effective ! You need to use every night and over time you’ll be thankful. Three years in and my skin is better than it was in my late 30’s xx
‼️My mom is a young 78 with very few wrinkles and spots, but wanted to give Tret a try. She just started her Agency script, so this video is perfect ❣️I’ve sent her your others on Tret as well. Nobody guesses our actual ages, and I’ve been using Tret for 20 years (now with Agency) so she is getting with it too❤️ Thanks doc‼️‼️
I started of with my Retin-A micro at the highest strength mid September of last year. I had pretty bad sensitivity, redness and peeling. I then would apply Cetaphil dermapro eczema lotion on after and that helped immensely. I had continued irritation up until about 6 weeks ago. I use it daily. Although it's all great now and I have excellent results, I must say. The only thing I would've done differently is I should have started off with a weaker strength. But at least it's all great now. My skin has never looked better honestly.
I used tretinoin for hormonal acne a few years ago, but I found that only oral spironolactone was actually effective. Fortunately, my hormonal acne is no longer an issue and no longer need anti-androgens. I'm interested in trying retinoids again for skin texture and anti-aging...eventually! Great video as always and thank you for always keeping science first.
@@ariaelein it is supposed to help you with hormonal acne. I used it too, but I had so many problems with it. Specially with my period, my cramps were so bad and also i had muscle pain, nausea and stomach pain. My acne was a bit better, but not worth all the pain. I still had many pimples, even if they were not so bad
How did you know when you didnt need to continue with spironolactone? I just started it a week ago and tonight was my first night using tret for my hormal acne.
Tazarotene is the best! Strong at first, but your skin gets used to it - I love it ! Everyone asks me why I looks so much younger, of course, eating better also is a must- I can’t stress how good Tazarotene is… it’s amazing!!!!! I use it in the day time, too, but insure I use sunscreen and apply 3 times per day -
Great video! I started my journey with putting Tret on top of my moisturizer. After my skin got use to it, I could use it under. Worked great for me after a few months. Loving the results!
I am re-starting tretinoin again. I am seeing results already in less than 2 months (smaller pore, glossiness, almost like glass skin, less hyperpigmentation) but the acne and peeling are still coming up again sometimes… good to hear this while I am pushing it through!!! 💪
@@sialee5926 I don't think I have sensitive skin. Just normal to dry skin. I figured it out eventually. Mixing with squalene oil completely removed the drying effect of the tretinoin.
Loving all this new retinoid content from Dr. Dray! I just started on tazarotene two weeks ago for acne and I'm always excited to learn more about the topic.
Ive been using retinol for about 10 years now, Love it. Started using it for my skin condition and it ended up benifiting more in more ways so I just stuck with it. It really does work I can say wth honesty had I not been using retinol I would look alot older than I am.
I will start by saying that I never had acne. I have been using retinA 0.1% for about 30 years now. Started in my late 30. I wouldn’t stop using if my life depended on it. I always had great skin and I continue to get compliments on my skin. Never go out without a good sunblock. Never go to the beach and if I can I run my errands at night. XO.
@@blueseptember2174 I am not stupid. I do know what umbrellas and sunblock are for and ai do use the umbrella when I need to go out and the sun is strong. As for the beach I have never care for. AndI grew up with my back yard next to the beach but it was never my thing.
I’ve watched all about how retinoids can damage your skin(when not used properly) and I was soo scared. I have sensitive skin and I’ve gone through a lot of products before I found the ones that are not irritating my skin. I thought that the same will be with tretinoin but I was completely wrong. Within 6months I was able to build my skin tolerance from 0.015 to 0.1 with very little irritation on the start. Below is my current skin care routine as maybe it will help someone. Morning: Cerave hydrating cleanser, Basiclab vitamin C 15%, Laroche posey spf 50 (invisible) Evening: senelle cleansing oil, cerave hydrating cleanser, tretinoin 0.1, cerave cream Thanks to dr dray I’ve changed my 10 steps skin care routine which was only irritating my skin and wasn’t doing any good for me. Now I have my routine to which I stick and I’m soo happy with my skin ❤ I watch dr dray at least few times a week👍
Tretinoin is fab. My skin tone is amazing. I still get hormonal break outs and have to use other treatments but I'll never stop tretinoin :) love your vids. Keep it up Dr Dray 💗
I'm in my 30's and have extremely oily skin, large pores, and have been struggling with pore clogging ever since I was a teen. I've been using my tretinoin .025% for two weeks, and I have already noticed that my skin appears smoother and has less acne/clogged pores. I have experienced barely any side effects at all, except for a little irritation on my chin. I was able to start using the tretinion every other night for a week, and now I'm using it every night before bed (and after cera-ve moisturizer). I know my case is not the norm, but I just wanted to share my experience. Everyone's skin is different! :) I am looking forward to seeing how my skin will look a few months from now!
Also 30s here with oily skin and large pores. Glad your experience is going well. I was recently prescribed Tretinoin 0.05% for acne (I also got doxycycline for acne) and photoaging. I first applied it Sunday night, followed by moisturizer, but within 24 hours, the skin around my mouth started peeling. :( My dermatologist told me to use it every other night, but I'm going to do less than that. I'm also going to apply moisturizer before and after.
@@MsQuartermaine that sounds like a good idea! I have experienced peeling at the corners of my mouth before, due to my toothpaste and it was very painful. My recent chin peeling went away after I started applying my moisturizer before the tretinion... I've been using the CeraVe PM face lotion and it seems to be doing the trick!
OPALNOVA May I ask which cleanser you use? I'm not used to taking very good care of my skin. My mom and sister wash their face once daily with body wash and have no problems and I'm like "I'm not sure if I should be going that route." There's so many options. I bought a Cetaphil one last month for oily skin, but the scent is terrible, and it seemed to make me break out even more. Cerave acne foaming cleanser with benzoyl peroxide seemed to be good; for something with benzoyl peroxide, it sure made my skin feel smooth, but because it has benzoyl peroxide, I don't want to use it while on Tretinoin. Although I guess I can use it on the days I don't use Tretinoin. Guess I should ask my dermatologist.
@@MsQuartermaine I actually use the Cetaphil cleanser for combination to oily skin! Lol! I pre-cleanse with Rosehip oil too, because it was given to me as a gift and my skin is too oily for me to use it normally. Vanicream is supposed to have great cleansers, and they are fragrance free! I plan to switch over to Vanicream once this Cetaphil is gone... It smells nice to me, but it is definitely a strong fragrance.
When I first started using Tretinoin years ago, I was using it too often and my skin flaked badly and turned red. It didn't feel good, either. I watched several videos on acclimating to a retinoid and used a retinol for several months. Then, I tried Tretinoin again, starting at once a week. No probems, until I started using First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads (no shade, they're great), without doing it gradually. My face became inflamed. It was painful and looked horrible. It took quite a while to heal and then I started back on Tertinoin, gradually, and was fine. Recently, I added the Facial Radiance Pads, alternating with my Tretinoin and I'm doing fine. The moral of the story is, start slowly and don't add anything else that could irritate your skin until it is fully acclimated to the retinoid and then, do so s-l-o-w-l-y. Anyway, this has been my experience. I hope it helps someone. xo~linda
Ive been on it 3 years, while yes theres some subtle changes during the first few months it really was after the first year for me to really see beautiful changes on the skin
@@EnvyBlu yes take a pic of your face now and things you want change and compare to the year one, I had scars that literally dissapered and a few fine lines that also went away. Its the best skin Ive ever had
Exaaaactly! It depends on how your skin was at the beginning of the journey. I suffered SEVERE cystic acne for 15 years. My Saint Derm put me on isotret and once healed, perfected my scars with all kind of non surgical procedures (mainly laser) until we achieved "dolphin skin". When, years after, I started tret for antiaging, sincerely, I didn' t see any drastic change because there was nothing to improve but mantain and "thanks" to acne, my discipline is spartan so no purge, no irritation... I just notice the _Broken Clock_ effect at my 46 yo😉✨ by religiously following Dr Dray' s and Dr Bunting instructions. *THANK YOU* 🧛🏻♀️🖤🖤🖤👩🏻⚕️🧑🏼🦳🐕
Thank you! 🦋I am still very slowly easing into using it, following your guidelines and so far have not had negative side effects. I simplified my routine, wash my face only in the evening, use sunscreen, and am now starting to apply tretinoin every other day…really taking it slow, I have started a couple of months ago, and it may take me another month before I see if it’s ok to use it every day…it is also for me an exercise in cultivating consistency patience and intention
Been using tretinoin since high school because of acne. It changed my life to be honest. Now I'm on a combination of tretinoin and kojic acid for the acne marks. Kojic acid removes hyperpigmentation like crazy.
I am using Tretinoin .1%. I am using it at once a week and keeping what i put on my skin to just moisturizer when using it. The purging and the reactive skin wasn't fun but worth it.
I just want to say I have learned so much from these videos. Long time user of retin a, but always looking for tips to make it more effective. I have very scared and oily thick skin, I found I need to use much more than a pea size and really rub it in over my moisturizer. Hate sunscreen. I always thought it broke me out. ..but it just wasn’t coming off! Doing a double cleanse now and having much better results. My skin is better hydrated now and not so parched looking. Looking forward to trying her product recommendations since most are affordable!!! Thank you Dr. Dray!!!
Thanks for all you do. My Derm recently prescribed Retrinex Cream .05% and it is amazing. I’ve been using it for nightly for a week with zero issues. This is the best tretinoin I’ve ever used. It’s in a very moisturizing base which makes all the difference. I used Refissa before which is also good but I believe it’s been discontinued. The best thing is she sells it directly and a 2 oz container was on $60
I used Tretinoin for a few months. My skin tolerated the .025 well. But my hair started to thin. My derm wanted to do a biopsy but I remembered recently starting Tretinoin. She took me off of it and my hair started to thicken. I'm so glad I took pictures.
The same happened to me. My dermatologist said no way was it the tretinoin. Her reasoning was that retin A is used in hair growth treatments. But like you, once I stopped using it, my hair stopped the excessive shedding. After a couple months, I started using tretinoin 0.009% daily (which is half as strong as the first one) and it is not causing hair loss for me.
@@TaHm-94 I got facial hair on sides of my face,I think this is because of using tretinion, I am using 0.5 thrice a week,should I go down to 0.25 twice a week?will it help in stopping facial hair?
My skin is not irritating rather it's become so soft, 2% retinoid emulsion really suits my skin but purging a little and actually I'm happy with this purging phase.
Thank you 🙏🏼 I've bien using tretinoïn for 2,5 months and I'm purging+++ right now which is hard emotionnaly... But I need to be patient... And I will! ❤️
Been using it for 7 yrs now and once in a while I while get a little flakiness/dryness between the eyebrows and around the mouth but other than that I am very pleased with the outcome. My skin is looking youthful, more glowy and radiant! The only downfall for me, which is not really one, is that my skin has gotten more sensitive to sunlight, so there is no way on earth that I can go outside without sunscreen on, my skin reminds me!!
okay everyone on the internet seems to be able to somehow purchase tretinoin even though it is sold only with prescription. Apparently people mostly buy it for wrinkles so not even for acne or anything. So I would appreciate it if someone can share how they purchase it
I’m 44 and I’ve used tretinoin for now approaching 20 years. I rub it on my neck, hands and even around my eyes. My skin hasn’t really aged at all. I love this stuff
@@peachpink123 hello there, sorry for the late reply. To begin with it itched like crazy, went red and flaked. However, I found that skipping a night and resuming helped this just fine. I’ve now been using it for years and I occasionally get mild itching but this usually settles down very quickly. The key is to be persistent, not give up and not to worry about the itching and flaking
I started to use tretinoin 0.025 % just yesterday, I use it after a moisturizer. I felt nothing, just that my acnes puss came out or increased. I will use it once every 2 or 3 days and build it up to every nights. I hope that my journey will go well 🙏🏻
I started at that amount.i had results but nothing major. After a few months I bumped up to .05tretinoin. after a year I am now using .1 % . Good luck on your journey.
What I have noticed (by using tret 0.1% for the last 10 months) is that yes, I am less prone to breakouts, much less prone actually (also using benzoyl peroxide), but my oily skin has been producing much less oil too. If I touch my face, it almost feels like I have normal skin (again, almost), which I think is a very cool feature that I did not expect would happen later on, when I started using tretinoin.
@@Icerosegaming I use bp almost every day, but only in the morning as a wash-off treatment. I leave it on for about 2 minutes, wash it off, and at night, I apply the tretinoin.
@@szaboizabella1536 did ur acne get worse by tret as purge? If so for how long? Im scared i dont want my acne to get worse. :( i have important events cmng up next month
@@Icerosegaming well, the beginning phase was not the easiest. I remember having some purging, it lasted for about one month. At that time, I used my tretinoin cream almost every day per week and it did make it not only purge (in terms of pushing out pimples), but my skin started peeling off and it was also pretty itchy and even painful. Those times have definitely been the worst to endure, but in the end it really was worth it. For you, I am not sure how long it shall last, maybe shorter, maybe longer, but I would start using it as soon as possible, the sooner the better.
@@szaboizabella1536 many people suggested that we should use once a week for one month and then twice a week for the next and so on. I have never used retinol and im a beginner so i think i need to use it once a week. As tret is a very strong potent.
Me and my mom just started a retinol (0.2% in squalane). I am going to be 50 and she is 76. It's going well so far. We've been going for several weeks now with this. A retinoid is not available in Belgium (it is a mix with another acne drug, no straight up retinoid in this country). Yes, we are severely behind the times!
@@mirna-garcia You're welcome. Actually I am from Belgium. And my name is historical (due to Spanish Conquest times). All boys in the line, and I'm the last, being a girl and having no other siblings. How's that for cool? ;)
Yes keep your routine boring while using Tretinoin. Learned the hard way incorporating vit c and niacinamide while using only .25% watching all influencers. Ended up in dermat office with angry acne all over my face. Had to take in tret inside also to calm down my face. Dr Dray is all wisdom regarding tret
Thank you so much for setting our expectations! I did shed initially but just covered my Ret A with a moisturizer and gradually worked my way in. It's fine now! Happy St. Patty's Day!
I've been using 0.025% cream for about 10mos now. I had redness for a couple weeks when I started, no purging at all, but very light occasional flaking for upwards of 5-6mos; the latter usually happened when I started slacking on hydration, and it always went away quickly when I remedied that. I saw slight improvements within the first 2-3mos and started seeing the "glow" in closer to 6mos.
I am about to start Differin😬 for the first time in my life. Bought over the counter. I don't have acne but am in my late forties with skin I'd like to improve, as rarely had entirely clear skin despite a skin regime most of my life. I have ordered up more Inkey list Oat Cleansing balm (love, love this), Cerave HA mild cleanser and Cerave cream moisturiser to reduce the chance of irritating my skin more during the use of the retinoid journey. Thanks to Dr Dray and other influences like James Walsh, I have been using SPF in my am regime for a few years now, so just ordered more of my usual ThankYou Farmer 50SPF too. Feeling hopeful. Thanks again for your informative advice Dr Dray!!
First off, you look so pretty!! Just wanted to tell you that. Now, thank you so much for your videos. I ve been watching you for a long time now and you Teach me so much. I can’t tell you how thankful I am for your content and for you sharing your knowledge. Much appreciate. Thank you, thank you.
That was so helpful! I was completely unsure if I could skip the tretinoin to use AHA a few nights a week, and you saying for anti-aging usage could be scaled back after a while cleared that up for me. I might even go back to every other night now. Thank you!
The difference in Results from tret must come from skin thickness ( penetration) And, the quality and quantity of Retinoic receptors. We should mix Tretinoin with a Retinoic receptor upregulator. Like how we mix minoxidil with tret
I have gone through the retinoid peel phase. However, it was only on my nose. I have been using The Ordinary's granactive retinoid 2% emulsion, and I have not had any adverse side effects. I am also tempted to go to my dermatologist for a stronger retinoid after hearing your positive reviews.
I started adapalene on 31st December 2021. I had acne flare up for around a month. But the acne would clear quicker than before. I am just now (last few days) starting to notice the smoother skin. I am using it for sun damaged skin which I am self conscious about. I hate wearing make-up. I am very very happy with the smoother skin and radiant appearance. I make sure that I wear sunscreen every day now thanks to Dr Dray, Australian brand Hamilton spf 50+ for face. Divine leaves my skin dewy and quenched. Can't wait to see results at 12 months mark. Edit: forgot to say that I prepared my sensitive skin for 6 months before I started adapalene. I used sensitive skin care brand QV no fragrance no scrubs lots of soothing balm. I also have lupus so that's why I prepped for 6 months. I believe that the prep has ensured success for me. I'm still using QV and still no scrubs or fragrance. 😊
I've heard everyone's skin is different when it comes to retinoids. I started out with retinol age 41. I did have some purging, redness sensitivity and peeling. But the sensitivity and irritation just never went away and I decided my skin doesn't like retinol. Then I tried retinaldehyde after learning it might be more gentle, but that didn't work for me either. In fact I got rashes from it unfortunately. I kept trying different brands of retinol, different strengths, and different types of retinaldehyde always with the same results for about a year-and-a-half time. Even though adapalene is supposedly stronger, it's OTC here, so I decided to risk it. My skin likes that much better than the others, and I've been using it every other day for over a year. I finally got Trentinoin .025%. I followed all the techniques that are suggested for retinization like the moisturizer sandwich, starting off with a tiny amount, etc. My skin acted like it was in shock! Turned bright red, had the same irritation and peeling. There is no doubt in my mind that tret is much stronger than adapalene. I've been able to work my way up to using it twice a week now for the past 2 months and I'm seeing really good results, so I'm super happy with it. Don't get me wrong I love adapalene, but this is better. In fact it really did knockout the last of my acne, is smoothing my skin texture, helping with my hyperpigmentation, and refining my pores even more. I'm so happy that I can tolerate it, and I don't get why my skin likes it better than retinol, but I'm thankful.
I tried the same.. Differin for over a year, so tried to move to tret. Maybe I quit too soon, but after months my skin couldn't adjust and was super dry and angry despite being very careful with my applications. No good results. Now on adapalene 0.3 + 2.5 BPO and have way less irritation
@@rrebeccag no I don't have hyperpigmentation under my eyes. I'm not sure, some people say you can use it there it's all about how your eye reacts. My eyes got irritated when I got it too close. You could try. You just want to make sure you don't have dry eye or redness in the whites of the eyes
Great information! Thank you! This is an example of what I would like to see: a chart with products Rx & OTC (exp. Adapoline) down the left side. Along the top of the chart, the other products that are needed with Adapoline, (Moisturizer, sunscreen, petrolatum around eyes, etc.) in the order that they should be applied. Maybe even time of day, AM, PM. Think of a pivot table. This would help me so much! It would be easier than rooting through your videos. By the way, you are the bomb 🔥 today! Whatever you are doing, keep it up, sister!
Honestly, that's the key to successful Tretinoin use: keep your routine BORING! The good news is that it's WAY cheaper too!!
Agree. Some of these youtubers who use 20 products before/after their retin-a are crazy!
I also agree,after 4years in tretinoin haha.. I learned it the hard way before😅
not so cheap because retin A is literally so pricey 🙃🙃
Insurance wouldn’t cover my tretinoin so I have to pay $108 each time but the tube does go a long way lol
@@Mindofqui I'd check around with other pharmacies. I just paid $52 so I wonder if the Goodrx app would work for this
I'm in my fourth week with tretinoin 0.025 and it works incredibly 😭❤️ I don't mind with the purging because when it heals, it glows and make my skin less oily. God luck for everyone who's fighting with acne 💪
Did your acne get worse? If so for how many weeks ? I got the same % of tret and im so scared to use. Do you have any tips for me ? We can use it on acne right ?
@@Icerosegaming Yes. But it only lasts for 3 weeks and it's getting better. I really recommend, just keep going if you're the type of person who want to stop immediately after seeing the purging. Cause tretinoin should be using for at least 3 months to see the acne literally goes away. Just be patient, trust me.
@@handlebar246 how many days a week do you apply?
@@diamoamy I apply every other night (after applied it 2 times a week for a month). But if you are a beginner, apply it 2 times a week for a month. So your skin can adapt first. If you use it too often as a beginner, it can make your skin sooo dry. Just be patient. Trust me, I'm in my two months and my skin that used to be so oily becoming normal and smoother. It's getting healthy. I don't even need wearing too much expensive skincare anymore. Don't forget to wear sunscreen everyday 😊
@@handlebar246 what's the update? How is it going?
I have been using .1% tretinoin for 20 years. That is my skin care routine along with moisturizer and Tizo-3 sunscreen tinted and non tinted. I have been to several dermatologists and they are amazed on how my skin looks. And a plus, when I go out with my 33 year old son people think we are siblings. I’m 59!
Which moisturiser do u use
Where do you get tretinoin?
@@andreicallanan1029 prescription from dermatologist. costs me $10 every 30-45 days with insurance. i’ve had cystic acne for about 3 years and it’s cleared me of breakouts over being used for about the last 6 months
That's amazing. Congrats! Did you experience peeling or flaking in the beginning?
@@Harbinger-my2fx i did at first cause my skin wasn't used to it but then after maybe 2 weeks? No more
I've had really good luck with Tretinoin. I did everything I was supposed to with excellent results. I always use moisturizer first as a barrier before the Tretinoin and it really helped with purging. I've been a nurse for 20 years. I was really into wound care and skin when practicing. Now retired I really want to get into esthetics as a 2nd career. You've inspired me with your content! Your videos are so in depth and informative. Thank you for all your hard work!
Hi! Is it okay to use Aveeno calm moisturizer with retinol? Thanks!
@@nini-qc1qd In her video on best moisturizers to use with retinol, she goes into ingredients in moisturizers to avoid (fragrance, AHAs/BHAs).
@@db-gb5xi ah thank youuu!
What moisturizer do you use?Xx
How long befor you saw results.
Your timeline is very accurate - I am beginning year 3 of (generic Retin-A) Tretinoin (0.05) use . Age spots diminished, fine and nasolabial lines very less noticeable, and skin much tighter. I always use sunscreen lotion of at least 40-60 spf. Honestly, I look ten years younger than I when I started. I really started to see serious results after about 8 months, with gradual improvement thereafter. I now consider it maintenance.
Hi Elen, May I ask how old you are? Do you tan easily? Thanks
@@eleonorabettio1075 68 and no.... cheers!
@@elenbrandt290 thank you, Elen. That gives me hope to have the same good experience you’re having with retin-a. Take care
I’ve been using retinoid for 6 months now and starting to lose hope because I don’t see much results. Saw your comment, and now I decided to stick to it!
@@vilmasanpedro1069 Good Girl! It does take time because it works on a deep level...but gradually you will see improvements, it is the grail of anti-aging for skin and is worth it.
I pursued tretinoin after my bike accident where I landed on a car windshield. Following your videos I've been using it for 3 years and must say raised scar tissue and cut marks have mostly disappeared. Everyone compliments me on my skin in amazement that I was even in a car crash.
Hey really? I have scar from accident as well? What is your routine ?
@@mishalqamar7302 The, raised one's I went to the dermatologist for a series cortisol shots. For the other ones I used tretinoin 3 times a week and on my off days cerave healing ointment. Sometimes I do the cerave night time for the niamacide that helps scars too. It took a while but with diligence the routine worked.
@@paulomilan515 were they hypertrophic/keloid or just raised and puffy ? Mines not hypertrophic just puffy and raised but my derm keeps telling cortisone shot won’t help
I’ve been using tretinoin for years and I swear I had the “retinoid uglies” for almost two years until I discovered your channel and watched almost every video and learnt so much including the fact that tretinoin is easier to tolerate if you moisturise before application. My skin is so much happier and it’s thanks to you. So thank you Dr Dray for all your beautiful nuggets of wisdom
What do you use and how ?
4+ years here .. made me allergic to all skin products and no real noticeable change .. I have clear skin ., i wanted for aging from sun.. i Just stopped using it last week .. just not working .. no “glo”
I peeled like a lizard for months until someone introduced me to slugging with Vaseline. Also, I learned the hard way - a year in - that's it not necessarily the tret for me, but the combination of tret and winter!
@@bunnybubs757 I don’t think it can make you allergic to stuff, maybe just ultra sensitive. Sorry about the lack of “glo”
@@JW99736 on it! Thank you ! I figured the moisturizer would weaken / stop the tret
@@tobintheron95 thx .. yup I react to all fragrance now … ESp lavender .. red itch burn irritation to neck .., it’s awful
I have always had bumpy,rosacia sensitive skin.Started 0.025% 2 years ago.Worked my way up to using it every night after a year.My skin has completely changed.No wrinkles,smoother and no rosacia.I am 70yrs old now and have been told that I look younger.I am just happy to get rid of the skin problems.I also use all Cerve products thanks to Dr Dray videos.
I'm 71 and have Rosacea prone skin that's presently under control. I'm easing into retinols, but afraid to try Tretinoin.
What was your routine and products used when you started Tret?
I use Paula's Choice skin care, and love it. I have used Cerave but it wasn't as effective for me as PC.
I just started tretinoin.025 on Monday for rosacea. I'm really hopeful it will help me. I'm 51. I'm glad it seems to be helpful for you.
To the other commenter, I also use Paula's choice and have been for years. I've had good results and no irritation from their products.
May I ask, before the one year, how many times per week, at night, you used, please?
When I first started it was once a week for a month then twice a week for a month an then by 3rd month I could use it everynight.Paula Choice calming product are very good an cerve is so gentle it does not aggravate skin.Have to keep it simple.Sun is the worst so have to protect skin with a good sunscreen.
@@sueproffitt3320 so grateful for your response. Thank you. I’m just wondering now if I should be doing that because I’m making the switch from the CeraVe retinol serum.
Great video! I’ve been using Retin-A for 30 years, started it for acne and realized my skin texture and lines improved dramatically. When I got dry skin, my dermatologist added Lachydrin (12% lactic acid, was prescription product) to my routine. Been using both since, I am almost 60, and nobody can believe it.
mommy
What percent of retinol are you using now?
@@lisaskywalker8419 0.025 for 1 month, 0.5 for 1month every 3-4days of week. now i’m in my3th month
@@lisaskywalker8419 I am using .1 creme. But that is too strong for most people. It is also winter here. (less worry about sun damage) In the summer, I use .25 along with sunscreen. ps- it is not retinol (which is over the counter stuff in moisturizer) It is retinoid.
Should we use it on whole face or only inaffected areas? If we use it on only affected areas than is it works on whole face
i had horrible acne and the worst self esteem because i thought my skin was too dry/sensitive to use a retinoid. once i found dr. dray, i changed up my techniques and i’ve been wearing my retinoid for over 8 months now and my acne is practically gone
Whoever's thinking about starting retinoid, start it. Best decision you’ll ever make. I started to use mine at Sept 22 & my skin got so much clearer. I didn’t have this kind of acne free, hyperpigmentation free skin since I was 12
Can it be used for people who have dry skin type and acne prone?
I use cocokind
This is the BEST thing for those who are going into there 50's. Tretnoinin has kept my skin absolutely smooth and "glass like" - use it every night - wear sunscreen - you'll age with grace and look beautiful. Do it for yourself.
I just love this content from a woman who KNOWS what she is talking about! This may make me sound bad but I really hate to see unqualified people giving advice on these sort of topics, especially prescription meds / topicals. Which are obviously prescription for a reason!
Thank you for doing your public service and giving out such honest and informative facts and advice ❤️🌟🥰
I think it's about time "influencers" are held responsible for the info they provide, in general. A good example is the financial influencers who pushed FTX. Can you imagine how many people hurt their skin because of these "experts"
@@danaso2567 influencers speak on what they know
The information is available online. Influencers do the research
@@sungexpression9093 no, that is the problem, they present themselves as experts in various fields and use their platfom to spead half-assed information a lot of the times. Yes, there are capable ones who do their due dilligence. These people make their money by providing this content, they should be held accountable for it.
@@danaso2567 no they don’t they present themselves as regular ppl with skin issues
I like watching regular ppl with everyday skin issues because they often suggest affordable solutions the everyday person can afford
Dr Dray you’re the reason I started using Tretinoin and sunscreen rain or shine. My skin has never looked better. Thank you so much !
How long till you saw results with tret? And at what %?
@@roon66568 about 3 months
@@julissarivas6992 what %?
@@TheJudyta21 I started at .05% for a year and now I’m at 1%
@@roon66568 I started with 05% for a year and now I’m at 1%
Dr. Dray, I just stopped by to tell you you are amazing. The best dermatologist in UA-cam. And for all the Americans near the border, planning on a vacation, or with Mexican friends who can bring you a little something when visiting family abroad, retin a tretinoin from reputable labs in Mexico does not require a prescription and it costs around 25 bucks. It is sold in all big chain pharmacies in the country. Just saying.
Yes! And european sunscreen 🤭
You are right - for years I used a friend as my "Retin-A Express" every time he went to Mexico.
WONDERFUL,thanks for the info.
Agree. Dr Dray has the best content on YT. I’m in Canada and my tretanoin is covered by my health care plan
In Indonesia, Tretinoin 0.1% only cost you USD $ 2.5 and you can buy it without prescription.
i’ve been using spf daily and the neutrogenia retinol serum 2x a day and at 6 months in i’ve really started to notice a huge difference. my skin is so clear, so bright, and my smile lines are almost non existent! it’s such an amazing product.
The original Dermatologist Queen here in UA-cam! Been a follower for years now.
I never had purging, probably because my skin isn’t sensitive. My skin when I was a teenager was very acne -prone, but even then, I was religiously applying spf on a daily basis. I started tretinoin back in 2015. I stopped it after a year because I saw great results. Then, I found out that I should use it even after I achieved clear skin. My skin is very smooth and I haven’t had a breakout in over 6 months. I started tretinoin again this week and so far, so good.
Hii is it normal to not have purging?? Because I have some acne marks not active acne and it’s been a month that I’m using tretinoin and I’ve not gone through purging and all like others.
@@haru5659yeah it’s normal
I have never had acne, so I never had purging. There was nothing to purge
@@Selonie very much so! I started when I was 22, but that was because I just discovered about it. If I discovered it beforehand, I would have probably used it right away. Just make sure to consult with your dermatologist. You need a prescription and they will give you a small dose first and work your way up when you and they fell comfortable with it. My face actually gets extremely dry if you don’t apply a good moisturizer on your skin during your tretinoin routine. So beware of skin shedding. I’ve currently just discovered the best moisturizer for me which was cerave moisturizer. (I started with more expensive brands, but had I known that cerave would be a good fit, I would’ve just used it ever since. Could’ve saved me a lot of money.) So try to do tretinoin and moisturizer after. Or do a sandwich: moisturizer, tretinoin, and another moisturizer on top to stop drying.
@@Selonie my purge is usually very deep skin and some skin peeling. It just means that I need to moisturize more. It only lasted a week because I would apply moisturizer every few hours when I felt a bit dry again. Yours is different but you need to apply spf every two hours on your face btw. Tretinoin makes your skin sensitive because you are having a skin turnover. The skin is extra sensitive because it’s new. If you have makeup on, there are many spf powders available and you can apply that instead. I would recommend spf 30+ or more. I use spf 45. Good luck!
BE PATIENT!!!!! ITS WORTH IT!
I hope you're right I just started using it.
Yes! I’ve been using Tretinoin about 3 months now, and got scared because I noticed more hyperpigmentation after the first few weeks. Now it’s fading, good to know that’s normal. I still have a little peeling, but I have very sensitive skin and mix it with a light lotion.
experiencing this. I have pigmentation, it is darker and I am peeling around my mouth. Just a few acne breakouts but the pigmentation and peeling is worse
what percentage do you have?
Do you use sunscreen? Retinoids can make skin more sensitive to the sun
oh no, don't mix retin-a with lotion. You can layer, atleast.
Omg this is me now. I feel like my skin is like darker but it’s not peeling so it’s like what’s going on?!
I used Retin-A when I was in my 20s for acne red spots. I wanted results fast and I used more than I should have, so I had lots of peeling on my face. Within months all the red spots were almost gone. The purging was bad those few months, but the result was worth it.
I saw results within the first 2-3 weeks! And luckily skipped purging, my acne never got worse, only better. Been using Tretinoin cream daily for about 2 months now and I finally feel confident about my skin after battling severe adult cystic acne for the past 2 years. I felt mad at myself for waiting so long to reach out for help!
@@vl180 yes, every night!
Did you firs start using every night or 1/2 a week?
@@saara1296 I started using it every night. I imagine it would depend on how your skill tolerates it, but I didn’t have any issues with it.
Wow! I hope it works on me the same way it worked on you! I am using Epiduo for a month now and my derma recommended me to transition to Tretinoin 0.05%. I’m still waiting for my Epiduo to finish before going into tret and I’m kinda nervous. I hope my acne will fade away by next year🤧🤞🏼
It took me a year, but I love it. My dermatologist recommended Trentinoin to me for my acne and scars. I am 23 years old with PCOS. I only had faced one purged during the first 3 months. I purchased a compounding moisturizer called Vanicream, and mixed a little bit of the moisturizer in with the Trentinoin and started by only applying it once a week. The next month, I applied it twice a week, and so on until I started becoming able to use it everyday. Then my goal was to take out the compounding moisturizer and only use moisturizer at night. This was when I saw the biggest difference. I almost never wear makeup now. My scars color has drastically became more flesh and even some pits have became less. My pores are much smaller. But it’s also great for other things. For example, I had surgery last summer that left me with a nasty red keloid scar right above my pubic bone. One day I had the epiphany that maybe trentinoin would work on that too. So I started applying it on the scar, and massaging it in. Wether it be the action of massaging the scar or Trentinoin itself, the scar is now visibly less dark and not as puffy. I also had really bad and deep “tech neck” lines. I started using Trentinoin on them, and they COMPLETELY vanished. I have to say, that is something I was most impressed with. I recommended it to everyone and now my grandma, aunt, mom, and bestfriend all are using Trentinoin. My grandma is using it because she is prone to getting skin cancer on her face. My aunt too. My mom is using it for dark spots, and my bestfriend is using it on red scars she obtained after pregnancy. I’ve done a lot of research on it, and not everything I read I believe. But one thing is true, is that YOU MUST WEAR SUNSCREEN and moisturize. I have darker, dry skin as it is so I didn’t think it would effect me as bad, but it can be harsh. I have learned my lesson so many times by not wearing sunscreen or moisturizing and having to show up to class with super dry and tight skin, or even raw patches because I didn’t listen.
Wow your experience is very encouraging ... May I know what percentage are you using
I am also a 20 yo dark skin complexion woman with PCOS and acne scars. I tried Tret one year ago and it destroyed my face. I don’t know if it’s because of the derma who did an absolute awful job (made me start tret at a high level and frequency w/h using a sunscreen) or it was just my sensitive skin that reacted badly. Now I’m seeing another derma who put me on tret again but at a low level this time. Still is I’m afraid to go through what I went through before… Took me time to repair my skin barrier, now I barely don’t break out anymore but I have very visible scars.. I don’t know if I should try tret again, I’m so afraid.. I now know it to use to minimise irritation and purging but I’m still reluctant to try it again.
What would you advise me?
@@Anna-dd4wy it is 0.05%! Which is stronger than it sounds lol!
@@guillaumem9953 I would say get a chemical peel, but if your moisture in the skin barrier was disrupted last year from Trentinoin, she probably doesn’t want you to do that. I got a chemical peel before using a low dose of Trentinoin and it lightened/took off about 70% of the scars I had. Scars take a lot of time to heal, and I know using Trentinoin will help them regardless. It’s a year later of consistency for me, with good spf, and good moisturizer and I am just now seeing results that I’m proud with. I don’t even wear makeup anymore. Where I was two years ago, I had so many scars, I wouldn’t dare to leave the house. It’s daunting to think of how long it can take, but after the purge, you will see progress each month. Be patient and consistent! Wear aquaphor on the days you don’t use Trentinoin. And start slow. I know this isn’t the best response and I’m not claiming to be a doctor, this is just what I wish someone would’ve told me when I started. I hope it helps.
How much time does it take for it to decrease my acne if i use it once a week only ? Im so scared of purging. Because i have important events next month. I want better skin in 1 month.
I saw results in 2 months, but then again I started using when I was 26, I am 60 now, and I look younger than most 30 year olds.
Thanks for sharing
Amazing! I wish I had known about it when I was 26. I'm 59.
Ditto, I started at 20 and I’m 61. I would see results right away. My esthetician ordered it from Europe. I don’t believe it was on the USA market in 1981. It’s really not about looking younger for me probably not for you either. It’s about having beautiful healthy skin.
@@franameri6590 me too! I had never even heard of it then.
Um...it would be hard to look younger than a 30 year old. I'm 48 and have been using retin-a since I was around 32. It definitely helps my skin look smoother and more even. My skin looks great, but I do not think I look younger. I'm just the best version of myself at the age that I am.
This is the most accurate description of using a retinoid, in my experience. Thanks for sharing the knowledge Dr Dray👏
15+ years of acne, blemished, uneven skin. No good with dermatologists I visited earlier. Ditched everything, switched to using just adapalene and olive oil the first two weeks. Then started tretinoin after that every alternate day. Dryness and scaling for two or three weeks. Then, my skin cleared up and i dont need anything else other than tretinoin and olive oil now. Thanks Dr. Dray!
Retin A , Tretinoin, Retinol, whichever you call it, is the queen of all skin care creams for anti aging and flawless skin, no doubt about it. I started using this product since I was 30 years old and am still using it until now that I am 72. It works wonder on my skin, and I don’t even think of switching it to other skin care products. I will stick to this cream, Forever. I considered this, a Miracle cream for me!. I am using 0.05% ever since.
How does your skin look? Does it help against large pores?
Can you use Tretinoin on lips?
@@peekabooicu8974 No tretinoin to lips
@@toeareg100 Yes, you will not notice the changes but people will notice it. Just use it everynight on clean face ( let your face dry for 10 to 15 minutes before applying the cream. You can also apply on your neck but not the lips. Do not put other creams or moisturizer over it. In the morning wash your face and apply your daily moisturizer . Do it routinely, retin A at night and moisturizer at daytime. Your skin peels off after sometime, that's normal. Your pores will disappear, your skin will look smooth and flawless . Be patient for the result.
@@peekabooicu8974 I got lots of praises for my skin. My friends and colleagues thought I am just over 50 y.o but my actual age is 72 going 73 this coming April.
I've been on retin a for 9 years! The best anti-aging
Starting tretinoin was the best decision I ever made for my skin!
Gurl, I just started .25% tretinoin and your videos have been a blessing. I have been close to giving up but you always give me hope tbh
0.025% get it right boomer
how do you like it so far?
Hi from Germany!! I got prescribed adapalene and bpo last months and I am so excited to see results, thank you for your videos , sadly there is nobody in the german site of youtube with that much information on skincare
I just started Tretinoin and appreciated this video elaborating these points.
Every time I get impatient, I come back to this video.
Dr. Dray I hope you know how much you have helped ppl all around the world we appreciate you. Thank You from Australia xx
I had watched a bunch of your older videos awhile back. Then I just kinda dropped off because I bought some products and left the research phase. Then I remembered you and started watching some new videos. Holy cow! Your hair is amazing. It looks like whatever you are doing has made it thicker, shinier, healthier, etc. I was immediately impacted by it, so in case you lose track of such results over time, know that I really noticed it immediately compared to 2018.
So cute babe
she is vegan !
I just turned 28 and I’ve been using tretinoin since I was 18 with sunscreen of course daily and I see a lot of changes I love it! Thanks for your videos your the best dr Dray!
How can you buy
@@ijazahmad1611 buy my tretinoin?
@@Alexellis738 how
It available on farmacey
@@ijazahmad1611 no it’s a prescription you can get from a general practitioner or a dermatologist my general practitioner prescribed mine.
I have been using tretinoin for acne since 2009. This year due to cold temperature of winter, I stopped tretinoin for only 5 days while keeping everything else the same believing that there is no way I can get acne again after all these years. Surprisingly, I broke out badly and quickly revert back to the severe acne that I had before tretinoin treatment. It took me almost 6 weeks of consistent tretinoin use to get my skin back to normal. The moral of the story is that never completely stop using tretinoin if it is for acne especially if you know you are under a lot of stress.
okay everyone on the internet seems to be able to somehow purchase tretinoin even though it is sold only with prescription. Apparently people mostly buy it for wrinkles so not even for acne or anything. So I would appreciate it if someone can share how they purchase it
@@thesdfable go to a dermatologist and get a prescription. Anything else is likely illegal and could potentially be harmful
This is a wonderful explanation of the varying choices we have
Thanks for watching
I just started using Tret .025%. I put the second application on today, my first application was 4 days ago and I instantly noticed the dry feeling and a little flakiness. But I’ve been remoisturizing through the day and honestly the dry feeling I have just makes me excited to know it’s working 😂 can’t wait to see how this goes in the long run!
For all you know they just dumped some random cheap drying chemical in there to deceive you
Like Benzoyl Peroxide
I’m getting ready to start it, I got 0.05% tretinoin with a additive of 2% hydroquinone because I have hyper pigmentation, I’m so excited, how are you doing today? Do you see improvement?
Oh another question did you put moisturizer on before the tretinoin?
I’ve been using tretinoin for 3 months and no purging at all 🎉🎉🎉 0.05% and now I’m ready to move to percentage
This is so helpful thank you! Im in my early 30s and started getting really bad acne out of nowhere. Started off using adapeline but it wasn't very effective, so went to my dermatologist and she prescribed me a low dose Trentinoin. After 4 weeks of use and some terrible purging and questioning my life choices, I have to say the results are night and day. Im at 6 weeks of continuous use now and I still get the occasional pimple but it goes away so quickly now. I'll double up with a pimple patch when the white head appears and usually it's flat the next day. Can't wait to see how my skin looks and feels at 6 months!
Hey! How’s your skin looking now ? What moisturiser and cleanser did you use ? I’m on diffiren and not seeing great results so want to start Tret
How is your looking now? Your review would help alot thanks
Just started on .25%! So excited!
0.25% or 0.025% 😭😭
I started off using Aklief at night and Azelaic Acid in the morning, me and my dermatologist wasn’t happy with the results so she switched me to tazarotene at night and still using Azelaic Acid in the morning. Also she added spironolactone to take every day. I’m finally seeing good results. I also noticed my hair fallout stopped dramatically. I forgot to mention I started seeing my dermatologist because I was dealing with Hormonal acne and hair fall out. I just wana say thank you Dr. Dray for all the great recommendations and tips
What dose spironolactone do u take
My dermatologist prescribed me winlevi in the morning and tazarotene at night. Could you recommend a moisturizer that works well with tazarotene? I have had some peeling and am looking into laroche posay.
@@christinagordon1219 50 mg once a day.
Do u wash ur face in the morning cuz me I use it at night and don’t know if I should wash my face in morning
@@dzciple4931 no I don’t wash my face in the morning. Using retinoid and washing your face to much will just irritate it. I just rinse my face in the morning and apply moisturizer and sunscreen.
I started using Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair about 3 years ago, I had a lot of dryness and irritation from that because it was the first retinoid I'd ever used. I soon after learned how to properly care for my skin while using a retinoid and started using Adapalene (thanks to you Dr Dray!); I did experience a little bit of flaking, dryness and redness from it but it quickly went away and I learned how often I could use the adapalene and eased into. it. I never did have a horrible purging episode. Now I can use adapalene almost every night without concern and I've been using adapalene for going on 3 years. TODAY I'm switching to tretinoin!! I'm both nervous and excited, wondering how my skin will react to this new and stronger retinoid. My skin definitely looks better 3 years later and I'm excited to see how it improves in the future!!
THANK YOU!! Your videos are always a saving grace! I have learned so much from you over the years. I understand the beauty in keeping skin routine "boring". I was prescribed tretinoin for acne that I have been fighting with for a few years (due to PCOS) and the derm, unfortunately, didn't go over much with me... It's been a few weeks and I was very doubtful due to the purging process I was going through but I knew your content would help me understand what to expect and provide relief. I feel much better about using it consistently! Acne is a disease, it truly affects your mental health and feels like it's never going to get better. Now I see a light at the end of this tunnel. I cannot recommend your channel enough!
I can't believe I wasn't using this all this time. I been using my .0025 for 1 month and it's amazing. My skin wasn't too bad but hormonal acne has leaving marks on my chin. My skin texture is sooooo smooth and my occasional breakout comes and goes with no fuss. My skin is glowing. Why did I not use this for the last decade ☹️
I was confused because I had no irritation , no peeling or purging. A little dry skin, but Nivea sunscreen helps with it. ( 0,5%)
I've been using it consistently for about 6 weeks. Dr. D is right, my skin feels smoother! 😲
You're just lucky and everybody is different. I'm on 0.5% too and have only very mild flakes. Not even under my eyes. It's been about 3 years for me. But I did build up slowly and I moisturize before.
do you use it every night
@@marlynnek6449 do you use it every night?
Hi Andrea I started using Tret 0.05 three years ago. After one year I started seeing the best results … I used a tiny pea size every night. Less is more. However after 18 months I started getting urticaria on my neck even though I only used tret on my face. I saw a dermatologist who said it may be a side effect of tret ! Even though I wasn’t putting it on my neck! So I came down to 0.025% a much lower percentage! The urticaria went away completely! But I was dreading the results not being so good. So another 18 months of using 0.025% and the results I can say ………….
Are just as good and have gotten better and better …. I turn 50 in 2 days. No one can believe it ! Which is nice 👍 so please don’t worry about the lower % !!!! They are just as effective ! You need to use every night and over time you’ll be thankful. Three years in and my skin is better than it was in my late 30’s xx
‼️My mom is a young 78 with very few wrinkles and spots, but wanted to give Tret a try. She just started her Agency script, so this video is perfect ❣️I’ve sent her your others on Tret as well. Nobody guesses our actual ages, and I’ve been using Tret for 20 years (now with Agency) so she is getting with it too❤️ Thanks doc‼️‼️
Your videos help me so much. Even going to my doctor’s office, I couldn’t expect to get this amount of valuable info in one sitting. Thank you!
I started of with my Retin-A micro at the highest strength mid September of last year. I had pretty bad sensitivity, redness and peeling. I then would apply Cetaphil dermapro eczema lotion on after and that helped immensely. I had continued irritation up until about 6 weeks ago. I use it daily. Although it's all great now and I have excellent results, I must say. The only thing I would've done differently is I should have started off with a weaker strength. But at least it's all great now. My skin has never looked better honestly.
I used tretinoin for hormonal acne a few years ago, but I found that only oral spironolactone was actually effective. Fortunately, my hormonal acne is no longer an issue and no longer need anti-androgens. I'm interested in trying retinoids again for skin texture and anti-aging...eventually! Great video as always and thank you for always keeping science first.
Hello what does spironolactone do to the skin?
@@ariaelein it is supposed to help you with hormonal acne. I used it too, but I had so many problems with it. Specially with my period, my cramps were so bad and also i had muscle pain, nausea and stomach pain. My acne was a bit better, but not worth all the pain. I still had many pimples, even if they were not so bad
How did you know when you didnt need to continue with spironolactone? I just started it a week ago and tonight was my first night using tret for my hormal acne.
Tazarotene is the best! Strong at first, but your skin gets used to it - I love it ! Everyone asks me why I looks so much younger, of course, eating better also is a must- I can’t stress how good Tazarotene is… it’s amazing!!!!! I use it in the day time, too, but insure I use sunscreen and apply 3 times per day -
Did you have any atrophic scars when you started? If yes, did they improve?
Great video! I started my journey with putting Tret on top of my moisturizer. After my skin got use to it, I could use it under. Worked great for me after a few months. Loving the results!
Did your skin purge?
I am re-starting tretinoin again. I am seeing results already in less than 2 months (smaller pore, glossiness, almost like glass skin, less hyperpigmentation) but the acne and peeling are still coming up again sometimes… good to hear this while I am pushing it through!!! 💪
How can you get it
What strength are u using? Do you have sensitive skin as well..thanks!
@@sialee5926 I don't think I have sensitive skin. Just normal to dry skin. I figured it out eventually. Mixing with squalene oil completely removed the drying effect of the tretinoin.
@@ijazahmad1611 Oh sorry I did not see this. I got it from Curology.
Hi :) do you us any other moisturizer or just the oil?
Loving all this new retinoid content from Dr. Dray! I just started on tazarotene two weeks ago for acne and I'm always excited to learn more about the topic.
I absolutely love Tazorac!! Good luck with your routine 😃
Ive been using retinol for about 10 years now, Love it. Started using it for my skin condition and it ended up benifiting more in more ways so I just stuck with it. It really does work I can say wth honesty had I not been using retinol I would look alot older than I am.
I will start by saying that I never had acne. I have been using retinA 0.1% for about 30 years now. Started in my late 30. I wouldn’t stop using if my life depended on it. I always had great skin and I continue to get compliments on my skin. Never go out without a good sunblock. Never go to the beach and if I can I run my errands at night. XO.
Why not go to the beach or run errands? That's what sunblock and the hat is for.
@@blueseptember2174 I am not stupid. I do know what umbrellas and sunblock are for and ai do use the umbrella when I need to go out and the sun is strong. As for the beach I have never care for. AndI grew up with my back yard next to the beach but it was never my thing.
@@gloriamartinez2535 didn't say you were stupid. Just didn't understand why not go to the beach.
@@blueseptember2174 because I have never liked. Not even as a child.
I’ve watched all about how retinoids can damage your skin(when not used properly) and I was soo scared. I have sensitive skin and I’ve gone through a lot of products before I found the ones that are not irritating my skin.
I thought that the same will be with tretinoin but I was completely wrong.
Within 6months I was able to build my skin tolerance from 0.015 to 0.1 with very little irritation on the start.
Below is my current skin care routine as maybe it will help someone.
Morning: Cerave hydrating cleanser, Basiclab vitamin C 15%, Laroche posey spf 50 (invisible)
Evening: senelle cleansing oil, cerave hydrating cleanser, tretinoin 0.1, cerave cream
Thanks to dr dray I’ve changed my 10 steps skin care routine which was only irritating my skin and wasn’t doing any good for me.
Now I have my routine to which I stick and I’m soo happy with my skin ❤
I watch dr dray at least few times a week👍
Tretinoin is fab. My skin tone is amazing. I still get hormonal break outs and have to use other treatments but I'll never stop tretinoin :) love your vids. Keep it up Dr Dray 💗
I hv the same reason for breakout. How do you address that?
I'm in my 30's and have extremely oily skin, large pores, and have been struggling with pore clogging ever since I was a teen. I've been using my tretinoin .025% for two weeks, and I have already noticed that my skin appears smoother and has less acne/clogged pores. I have experienced barely any side effects at all, except for a little irritation on my chin. I was able to start using the tretinion every other night for a week, and now I'm using it every night before bed (and after cera-ve moisturizer). I know my case is not the norm, but I just wanted to share my experience. Everyone's skin is different! :)
I am looking forward to seeing how my skin will look a few months from now!
Also 30s here with oily skin and large pores. Glad your experience is going well. I was recently prescribed Tretinoin 0.05% for acne (I also got doxycycline for acne) and photoaging. I first applied it Sunday night, followed by moisturizer, but within 24 hours, the skin around my mouth started peeling. :( My dermatologist told me to use it every other night, but I'm going to do less than that. I'm also going to apply moisturizer before and after.
@@MsQuartermaine that sounds like a good idea! I have experienced peeling at the corners of my mouth before, due to my toothpaste and it was very painful. My recent chin peeling went away after I started applying my moisturizer before the tretinion... I've been using the CeraVe PM face lotion and it seems to be doing the trick!
OPALNOVA May I ask which cleanser you use? I'm not used to taking very good care of my skin. My mom and sister wash their face once daily with body wash and have no problems and I'm like "I'm not sure if I should be going that route." There's so many options. I bought a Cetaphil one last month for oily skin, but the scent is terrible, and it seemed to make me break out even more. Cerave acne foaming cleanser with benzoyl peroxide seemed to be good; for something with benzoyl peroxide, it sure made my skin feel smooth, but because it has benzoyl peroxide, I don't want to use it while on Tretinoin. Although I guess I can use it on the days I don't use Tretinoin. Guess I should ask my dermatologist.
@@MsQuartermaine I actually use the Cetaphil cleanser for combination to oily skin! Lol! I pre-cleanse with Rosehip oil too, because it was given to me as a gift and my skin is too oily for me to use it normally.
Vanicream is supposed to have great cleansers, and they are fragrance free! I plan to switch over to Vanicream once this Cetaphil is gone... It smells nice to me, but it is definitely a strong fragrance.
can you share your progress
When I first started using Tretinoin years ago, I was using it too often and my skin flaked badly and turned red. It didn't feel good, either. I watched several videos on acclimating to a retinoid and used a retinol for several months. Then, I tried Tretinoin again, starting at once a week. No probems, until I started using First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads (no shade, they're great), without doing it gradually. My face became inflamed. It was painful and looked horrible. It took quite a while to heal and then I started back on Tertinoin, gradually, and was fine. Recently, I added the Facial Radiance Pads, alternating with my Tretinoin and I'm doing fine. The moral of the story is, start slowly and don't add anything else that could irritate your skin until it is fully acclimated to the retinoid and then, do so s-l-o-w-l-y. Anyway, this has been my experience. I hope it helps someone.
xo~linda
Ive been on it 3 years, while yes theres some subtle changes during the first few months it really was after the first year for me to really see beautiful changes on the skin
I’m 4 months in to Tretinoin. I can’t WAIT until I hit the one year mark and see the changes!
@@EnvyBlu yes take a pic of your face now and things you want change and compare to the year one, I had scars that literally dissapered and a few fine lines that also went away. Its the best skin Ive ever had
What strength are you using?
@@caramel0911 0.05%
Exaaaactly! It depends on how your skin was at the beginning of the journey. I suffered SEVERE cystic acne for 15 years. My Saint Derm put me on isotret and once healed, perfected my scars with all kind of non surgical procedures (mainly laser) until we achieved "dolphin skin". When, years after, I started tret for antiaging, sincerely, I didn' t see any drastic change because there was nothing to improve but mantain and "thanks" to acne, my discipline is spartan so no purge, no irritation... I just notice the _Broken Clock_ effect at my 46 yo😉✨ by religiously following Dr Dray' s and Dr Bunting instructions. *THANK YOU* 🧛🏻♀️🖤🖤🖤👩🏻⚕️🧑🏼🦳🐕
Isotret as in accutane? Oral meds or tropical treatment?
Thank you! 🦋I am still very slowly easing into using it, following your guidelines and so far have not had negative side effects. I simplified my routine, wash my face only in the evening, use sunscreen, and am now starting to apply tretinoin every other day…really taking it slow, I have started a couple of months ago, and it may take me another month before I see if it’s ok to use it every day…it is also for me an exercise in cultivating consistency patience and intention
Definitely noticed the quicker healing of wounds since starting on retinol! actually, the only effect I'm noticing so far :') .
Been using tretinoin since high school because of acne. It changed my life to be honest. Now I'm on a combination of tretinoin and kojic acid for the acne marks. Kojic acid removes hyperpigmentation like crazy.
Which Kojic acid do you use?
@@litallevy kojic acid dipalmitate 2% w/w. Brand names would differ from country to country of course.
I am using Tretinoin .1%. I am using it at once a week and keeping what i put on my skin to just moisturizer when using it. The purging and the reactive skin wasn't fun but worth it.
I just want to say I have learned so much from these videos. Long time user of retin a, but always looking for tips to make it more effective. I have very scared and oily thick skin, I found I need to use much more than a pea size and really rub it in over my moisturizer. Hate sunscreen. I always thought it broke me out. ..but it just wasn’t coming off! Doing a double cleanse now and having much better results. My skin is better hydrated now and not so parched looking. Looking forward to trying her product recommendations since most are affordable!!! Thank you Dr. Dray!!!
Try a Korean sunscreen, they are much much better! I am trying some, and so far Isntree watery gel sun cream hasn’t broken me out
Thanks for all you do. My Derm recently prescribed Retrinex Cream .05% and it is amazing. I’ve been using it for nightly for a week with zero issues. This is the best tretinoin I’ve ever used. It’s in a very moisturizing base which makes all the difference. I used Refissa before which is also good but I believe it’s been discontinued. The best thing is she sells it directly and a 2 oz container was on $60
I used Tretinoin for a few months. My skin tolerated the .025 well. But my hair started to thin. My derm wanted to do a biopsy but I remembered recently starting Tretinoin. She took me off of it and my hair started to thicken. I'm so glad I took pictures.
The same happened to me. My dermatologist said no way was it the tretinoin. Her reasoning was that retin A is used in hair growth treatments. But like you, once I stopped using it, my hair stopped the excessive shedding. After a couple months, I started using tretinoin 0.009% daily (which is half as strong as the first one) and it is not causing hair loss for me.
@@TaHm-94 I got facial hair on sides of my face,I think this is because of using tretinion, I am using 0.5 thrice a week,should I go down to 0.25 twice a week?will it help in stopping facial hair?
My skin is not irritating rather it's become so soft, 2% retinoid emulsion really suits my skin but purging a little and actually I'm happy with this purging phase.
Thank you 🙏🏼
I've bien using tretinoïn for 2,5 months and I'm purging+++ right now which is hard emotionnaly...
But I need to be patient... And I will! ❤️
Been using it for 7 yrs now and once in a while I while get a little flakiness/dryness between the eyebrows and around the mouth but other than that I am very pleased with the outcome. My skin is looking youthful, more glowy and radiant! The only downfall for me, which is not really one, is that my skin has gotten more sensitive to sunlight, so there is no way on earth that I can go outside without sunscreen on, my skin reminds me!!
Hi, do I need to use a gentle cleanser in the next morning of using tretinoin or washing with only water is fine?
okay everyone on the internet seems to be able to somehow purchase tretinoin even though it is sold only with prescription. Apparently people mostly buy it for wrinkles so not even for acne or anything. So I would appreciate it if someone can share how they purchase it
@@thesdfableI’m in the UK and order it from Bulgaria!
I’m 44 and I’ve used tretinoin for now approaching 20 years. I rub it on my neck, hands and even around my eyes. My skin hasn’t really aged at all. I love this stuff
How did your neck tolerated tretinoin? Mine just become so irritated :(
@@peachpink123 hello there, sorry for the late reply. To begin with it itched like crazy, went red and flaked. However, I found that skipping a night and resuming helped this just fine. I’ve now been using it for years and I occasionally get mild itching but this usually settles down very quickly. The key is to be persistent, not give up and not to worry about the itching and flaking
I started to use tretinoin 0.025 % just yesterday, I use it after a moisturizer. I felt nothing, just that my acnes puss came out or increased. I will use it once every 2 or 3 days and build it up to every nights. I hope that my journey will go well 🙏🏻
I started at that amount.i had results but nothing major. After a few months I bumped up to .05tretinoin. after a year I am now using .1 % . Good luck on your journey.
What I have noticed (by using tret 0.1% for the last 10 months) is that yes, I am less prone to breakouts, much less prone actually (also using benzoyl peroxide), but my oily skin has been producing much less oil too. If I touch my face, it almost feels like I have normal skin (again, almost), which I think is a very cool feature that I did not expect would happen later on, when I started using tretinoin.
How do you use benzoyl and tret in the same routine ?
@@Icerosegaming I use bp almost every day, but only in the morning as a wash-off treatment. I leave it on for about 2 minutes, wash it off, and at night, I apply the tretinoin.
@@szaboizabella1536 did ur acne get worse by tret as purge? If so for how long? Im scared i dont want my acne to get worse. :( i have important events cmng up next month
@@Icerosegaming well, the beginning phase was not the easiest. I remember having some purging, it lasted for about one month. At that time, I used my tretinoin cream almost every day per week and it did make it not only purge (in terms of pushing out pimples), but my skin started peeling off and it was also pretty itchy and even painful. Those times have definitely been the worst to endure, but in the end it really was worth it. For you, I am not sure how long it shall last, maybe shorter, maybe longer, but I would start using it as soon as possible, the sooner the better.
@@szaboizabella1536 many people suggested that we should use once a week for one month and then twice a week for the next and so on. I have never used retinol and im a beginner so i think i need to use it once a week. As tret is a very strong potent.
I just finished accutane and am starting tretinoin. I’m glad to know it will eventually get rid of the shallow scars that I have.
Happy Thursday Dr Dray!☀️💛 you’re the reason why my Tretinoin 0.05% has worked soooo well during this past year!
Happy Thursday! Glad things are going well
@@Princy_92 YES
@@Princy_92 the longer the better
How many times per week do you use it and do you use it before moisturizer or after?
@@Marko-ij4vy use it as you feel like. I personnaly use it after moisturiser it is more so convinient
This was very informative! Thank you for sharing such vital information especially for Tretinoin users!!!
Thank you for the video! I have been seeing improvement in my atrophic scars and I’m glad I’m not imagining it!
Me and my mom just started a retinol (0.2% in squalane). I am going to be 50 and she is 76. It's going well so far. We've been going for several weeks now with this. A retinoid is not available in Belgium (it is a mix with another acne drug, no straight up retinoid in this country). Yes, we are severely behind the times!
do you use it every night? I have that doubt.
@@mirna-garcia No. 2 to 3 times a week for me and 1 to 2 times a week for mom. BTW, we share the same last name. How cute is that?
@@amixeblu Thank you for replying so fast.🥰 Long live all Garcías!!!! We are the coolest😂
@@mirna-garcia You're welcome. Actually I am from Belgium. And my name is historical (due to Spanish Conquest times). All boys in the line, and I'm the last, being a girl and having no other siblings. How's that for cool? ;)
@@amixeblu I'm from Cuba living in Spain. Garcías are great travellers 😁🌹
Yes keep your routine boring while using Tretinoin. Learned the hard way incorporating vit c and niacinamide while using only .25% watching all influencers. Ended up in dermat office with angry acne all over my face. Had to take in tret inside also to calm down my face. Dr Dray is all wisdom regarding tret
Thank you so much for setting our expectations! I did shed initially but just covered my Ret A with a moisturizer and gradually worked my way in. It's fine now! Happy St. Patty's Day!
You look amazing Dr Dray!!! Followed you for years and you are shining more than ever!
I've been using 0.025% cream for about 10mos now. I had redness for a couple weeks when I started, no purging at all, but very light occasional flaking for upwards of 5-6mos; the latter usually happened when I started slacking on hydration, and it always went away quickly when I remedied that. I saw slight improvements within the first 2-3mos and started seeing the "glow" in closer to 6mos.
Hi, how often do you apply tretinoin? I would appreciate you reply. Thank you!
@@Kuzeika apply daily
I am about to start Differin😬 for the first time in my life. Bought over the counter. I don't have acne but am in my late forties with skin I'd like to improve, as rarely had entirely clear skin despite a skin regime most of my life. I have ordered up more Inkey list Oat Cleansing balm (love, love this), Cerave HA mild cleanser and Cerave cream moisturiser to reduce the chance of irritating my skin more during the use of the retinoid journey. Thanks to Dr Dray and other influences like James Walsh, I have been using SPF in my am regime for a few years now, so just ordered more of my usual ThankYou Farmer 50SPF too. Feeling hopeful. Thanks again for your informative advice Dr Dray!!
I'm jumping from .02 to .035% in my next Curology box! Good to know I won't have to suffer through all the initial side effects!
First off, you look so pretty!! Just wanted to tell you that.
Now, thank you so much for your videos. I ve been watching you for a long time now and you
Teach me so much. I can’t tell you how thankful I am for your content and for you sharing your knowledge. Much appreciate. Thank you, thank you.
That was so helpful! I was completely unsure if I could skip the tretinoin to use AHA a few nights a week, and you saying for anti-aging usage could be scaled back after a while cleared that up for me. I might even go back to every other night now. Thank you!
The difference in Results from tret must come from skin thickness ( penetration)
And, the quality and quantity of Retinoic receptors.
We should mix Tretinoin with a Retinoic receptor upregulator.
Like how we mix minoxidil with tret
I have gone through the retinoid peel phase. However, it was only on my nose. I have been using The Ordinary's granactive retinoid 2% emulsion, and I have not had any adverse side effects. I am also tempted to go to my dermatologist for a stronger retinoid after hearing your positive reviews.
Holly..so did you ask Ur Derm..to UPgrade Ur Retinol %?!? Im sure they would.
Can you use hyaluronic acid while using retinol? Thanks for the info..
yes
I am currently in my purge phase and really needed to see a video about this from a reliable source thank you so much
Try moisturiser after you cleanse then wait 30-45min and apply tret it’ll help
I started adapalene on 31st December 2021. I had acne flare up for around a month. But the acne would clear quicker than before. I am just now (last few days) starting to notice the smoother skin. I am using it for sun damaged skin which I am self conscious about. I hate wearing make-up. I am very very happy with the smoother skin and radiant appearance. I make sure that I wear sunscreen every day now thanks to Dr Dray, Australian brand Hamilton spf 50+ for face. Divine leaves my skin dewy and quenched. Can't wait to see results at 12 months mark. Edit: forgot to say that I prepared my sensitive skin for 6 months before I started adapalene. I used sensitive skin care brand QV no fragrance no scrubs lots of soothing balm. I also have lupus so that's why I prepped for 6 months. I believe that the prep has ensured success for me. I'm still using QV and still no scrubs or fragrance. 😊
i want to use a facial oil after it, but idk if it is recommended.
thanks dr. dray for your knowledge!✨
I might check her video, is it better to use oil vs cream for the face?
I’ve been using Tazarotene which was prescribed by my dermatologist for a year now and I’ve seen amazing results!
I've heard everyone's skin is different when it comes to retinoids. I started out with retinol age 41. I did have some purging, redness sensitivity and peeling. But the sensitivity and irritation just never went away and I decided my skin doesn't like retinol. Then I tried retinaldehyde after learning it might be more gentle, but that didn't work for me either. In fact I got rashes from it unfortunately. I kept trying different brands of retinol, different strengths, and different types of retinaldehyde always with the same results for about a year-and-a-half time. Even though adapalene is supposedly stronger, it's OTC here, so I decided to risk it. My skin likes that much better than the others, and I've been using it every other day for over a year. I finally got Trentinoin .025%. I followed all the techniques that are suggested for retinization like the moisturizer sandwich, starting off with a tiny amount, etc. My skin acted like it was in shock! Turned bright red, had the same irritation and peeling. There is no doubt in my mind that tret is much stronger than adapalene. I've been able to work my way up to using it twice a week now for the past 2 months and I'm seeing really good results, so I'm super happy with it. Don't get me wrong I love adapalene, but this is better. In fact it really did knockout the last of my acne, is smoothing my skin texture, helping with my hyperpigmentation, and refining my pores even more. I'm so happy that I can tolerate it, and I don't get why my skin likes it better than retinol, but I'm thankful.
I tried the same.. Differin for over a year, so tried to move to tret. Maybe I quit too soon, but after months my skin couldn't adjust and was super dry and angry despite being very careful with my applications. No good results. Now on adapalene 0.3 + 2.5 BPO and have way less irritation
Hi. Where is your hyperpigmentation? I gave it underneath my eyes on the inner corners and wonder if I could/ should use Tretinoin there. Thanks
@@rrebeccag no I don't have hyperpigmentation under my eyes. I'm not sure, some people say you can use it there it's all about how your eye reacts. My eyes got irritated when I got it too close. You could try. You just want to make sure you don't have dry eye or redness in the whites of the eyes
Great information! Thank you! This is an example of what I would like to see: a chart with products Rx & OTC (exp. Adapoline) down the left side. Along the top of the chart, the other products that are needed with Adapoline,
(Moisturizer, sunscreen, petrolatum around eyes, etc.) in the order that they should be applied. Maybe even time of day, AM, PM.
Think of a pivot table.
This would help me so much! It would be easier than rooting through your videos.
By the way, you are the bomb 🔥 today! Whatever you are doing, keep it up, sister!
Short contact therapy Tretinoin is amazing. I’ve had zero issues, zero irritation/side effects and have amazing results