Retin-A is an FDA-approved skin care treatment that can restore healthy, youthful looking skin. Probably best known for its acne-fighting benefits, the active ingredient in Retin-A is tretinoin, a derivative of Vitamin A.
In addition to treating acne, Retin-A is also an effective treatment for a variety of other skin conditions. Retin-A is available by prescription only at Beyond Beautiful.
Though acne is the most common indication for Retin-A treatment, other undesirable skin conditions such as facial aging, uneven skin tone and poor skin texture can benefit from treatment with Retin-A.
In some cases, Retin-A is also recommended to prepare skin for procedures such as laser skin resurfacing, chemical peels and facial surgery. The best way to determine if Retin-A is right for you is to schedule a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Khattab.
The consultation: In order to determine if you are good candidate for Retin-A, you will need to be honest and upfront about every aspect of your health. Your consultation will include an exam, as well as a discussion of your medical history and cosmetic goals. This information will help Dr. Khattab determine if Retin-A is the right choice for you.
Procedure: Retin-A is an at-home treatment that is typically prescribed for use once a day, in the evening. Prior to applying Retin-A, you should cleanse your skin with a mild alcohol-free cleanser. Once your skin is dry, you can apply Retin-A (gel or cream) evenly across your face. Dr. Khattab will demonstrate the application process for you in his office.
Recovery: During the first few weeks of use, you may notice some facial redness and peeling. Your skin may also breakout until it is renewed several weeks later. More serious side effects may include swelling, dryness or skin blisters. Dr. Khattab may prescribe additional creams or ointments to manage any unpleasant side effects. Additionally, while using Retin-A, your skin may be hypersensitive to direct sun exposure. It is important to apply sunscreen daily to protect your skin from damage.
Results: The time it takes to see significant improvements will depend on the specific conditions being treated. For acne treatment, it may take 6-9 weeks before you can see a noticeable difference. If you’re using Retin-A to counteract signs of facial aging, you may not see results for six months or longer. Most patients achieve desired results after using Retin-A for at least a year.
If you’re ready to learn more about Retin-A, call 310-325-2100 to inquire about a consultation with Dr. Khattab. Beyond Beautiful is located at 23365 Hawthorne Blvd, Suite 102, in Torrance, CA. Since 1988, we have been providing excellent care to patients in Torrance, Los Angeles, Rancho Palos Verdes, Redondo Beach, Long Beach, El Segundo, Manhattan Beach, Hawthorne California.