Cystic acne is a type of acne that develops when bacteria, oil, and dry skin cells form cysts deep underneath the skin. More than just a nuisance, cystic acne can be painful and can cause infections when serious. To combat cystic acne, your dermatologist may recommend a prescription-strength topical medication known as Retin-A (generic name: tretinoin). So, is Retin-A right for you? Read on to learn more about how it works and its benefits.
What Is Retin-A?
Retin-A is the brand name in the United States for tretinoin, a class of retinoids derived from vitamin A that has been used to treat skin aging, some cancers, psoriasis, and acne for years. If you wish to purchase Retin-A in the United States, it must be done with a prescription. Typically, Retin-A prescribed to patients after other topical acne treatments like benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid have failed to clear acne.
Benefits of Retin-A
New Cell Growth: Retin-A stimulates new cell turnover, which means that dead skin cells are cleared off your skin more quickly to make way for new skin cells. This opens your pores and works to release trapped bacteria on your skin that might cause your acne.
Sebum Regulation: Our bodies have natural oils called sebum that help to protect the skin and hair from moisture loss. They can help prevent breakouts, but when you have too much sebum or it gets trapped within your pores, it can become a problem. Retin-A helps to combat the overproduction of sebum.
Wrinkle Reduction: Retin-A has shown to have both short-term and long-term effects on the skin in reducing fine lines and wrinkles.
Diminished Acne Scars: Retin-A has been known to decrease the appearance of acne scarring the same way it removes acne by stimulating new cell growth and replacing dead skin cells with fresh, new cells.
Retin-A May Work for You
Although Retin-A is not for everyone, it has worked for millions of people. It does not come without side effects, though, which can include burning, itching, peeling, redness, and dryness. Be sure to speak to your doctor about Retin-A to see if it is right for you.
Have you tried Retin-A? Share your experience with us in the comments below!