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Retin-A started out as a cream prescribed for acne, yet it also had another intersting side-effect... it reduced fine lines and wrinkles also with regular use.
It is a deriritve of vitamin A. It works by increasing blood flow and stimulating skin cells called fibroblasts to produce new collagen,( the protein in skin cells that keep skin smooth). This can help to eliminate tiny wrinkles and make deep wrinkles less noticeable. The top layer of skin also thickens and produces a more youthful appearance..
In fact many of todays wrinkle treatments and skin creams also include retinoic acid due to the action it has on the skin.
Retin-A comes in 3 forms: cream, gel, or topical solution. Creams help moisturize and work well for winter weather. Gels are lighter and good for warm weather. Always follow the instructions for use. It is also used in the treatment of the following :
acne
sun-damaged skin
skin pigment disorders
certain precancerous states
It comes in various different prescribed strengths.
Nb : For UK purchases from any online source : Within the UK as it is illegal to supply or purchase any prescription medication within the UK without producing a valid doctor's prescription. However UK customs will accept the importation of medications - without requiring a doctor's prescription - as long as import VAT charges are paid. Therefore UK customs will charge the customer VAT accordingly. There is no duty payable only VAT.
How Do I Use It ?
Sparingly ! It's strong stuff.
Proper application involves waiting around 20 minutes after washing the face with a gentle cleanser and water. A pea-size amount is enough to cover the entire face and application before going to bed is generally advised along with using a normal moisturizer in the morning.
Most generally notice a significant difference in skin texture and appearance within 6 to 8 weeks.
However it must be emphsised that since Retin-A makes the skin more sensitive to enviromental factors, great care should be taken when going out into the sun. Sun lamps should be avoided altogether. Using Retin-A makes the skin very sensitive to ultraviolet light.
It's also best to completely avoid other products which mat irritate the skin such as abrasive or harsh soaps and cleansers, or those with a strong drying effect. Toners and astringents, electrolysis, and hair diplatories or waxes. Anything at all which might irritate your skin further should be avoided.
If any of the following occur then it is wise to seek medical advice : blistering, crusting, severe burning/redness or swelling of skin.
You must also tell the person prescribing if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.
Does it Work ? Well here are a few reviews :
"I have used retin-a for over 15 years now. I have gone up to three months not using it and then went back when I thought my face was tending to break out. It comes in different strenghts. The gel form is harsher that the cream form, plus both gel and cream come in multiple percentage levels. If you're having irritation, dry, and peeling skin your probably need to try a lower level in a cream. After getting older I found it necessary to use a sunblock on my face or I develop a few brownish spots they call hyperpigmentation. Overall - I can't say enough positive things about retin-a. It takes care of my acne and the wrinkle reduction is a bonus! "
"Retin A (or Acid A Vit as it is called in Europe) is a wonder drug to me. After a period of some years of having had an oily skin, I suffered from enlarged clogged pores, filled with sebum, in my face, especially my nose. Retin-A appears to be the only drug I tried that is actually capable of making those enlarged pores smaller again, and finally disappear. But it takes time and patience: I am using it for over a year now. Additional benefits are that clogged pores are much easier to clear by simply pushing the sebum out. And the general appearance of the face area treated with Retin-a looks much better, skin looks more youthful."
"Everyone should use Retin-A. Sure, it's a rough ride compared to the do-nothing drugstore creams, but it makes a real difference. You will see your skin change for the better over the months; softer, smoother, refined pores, fresher, younger. You have to peel off a bunch of dead gluey skin before you can see all that though. It's a harsh product but I still think it's the greatest - also, use the Micro version, it's worth the extra."
"I have been using retin-A since invented...I am 70 years old, almost no wrinkles, complimented on skin, no more brown spots, love the product. I have always used it very sparingly to prevent problems and avoid sun as it causes photosensitivity, shall use it forever."
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