Can Retino-A Cream For Acne And Scars Be Used Life Long Safely?

Posted on Wed, 11 May 2016

Question: hello sir/madam, I have been using Retino a 0.05% cream (tretinoin) for post acne mild scars. I have been using this for almost 2 1/2 years and its very very comfortable. initially I faced difficulty to adjust with my skin. I used first year with 0.025% strength and from second year till now I am using 0.05% strength cream. I am very happy that it has fully controlled my acne which I felt embarrassed socially before using this cream. It gave me more fairness and a clear skin. please solve my following queries:-
1. my acne pores are controlled by this cream and even a small improvement is taking huge time to notice. Can I use safely for life long and without any problems?
2. Can I increase the strength? from retino a 0.05% to 0.1% after consulting doctor?
3. 2-3 post acne marks are there and no improvement since 2+ years. Please guide what to do sir. would be starting to do modelling in some days so.
4. and please give some tips for how to lessen my acne scar/pores.
Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Asmeet Kaur Sawhney (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Can increase the strength, can use life long

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Thanks for being at Health Care Magic

I can understand your concern.

Yes you can use Tretinoin cream life long if it is not causing any dryness and irritation to your face.

Yes you can increase the strength from 0.05 to 0.1 percent after consulting the doctor.

If some marks are not showing improvement to Tretinoin then you can consult a dermatologist and consider going for laser treatment.

To improve the appearance of acne scars and pores take active treatment of acne whenever pimples occur, don't pick the lesions, avoid direct sun exposure, use cosmetics labelled as noncomedogenic, reduce the intake of sugary foods and avoid oiling of scalp.

Regards
Dr Asmeet

Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee