Tretinoin is a form of vitamin A that helps to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. It is available as a cream or gel and works by encouraging skin cell turnover.
Traditionally you would have needed to visit an aesthetic clinic or a doctor who provided cosmetic skin services in order to get a prescription for tretinoin. But now, you can shop for Tretinoin UK online via UK Meds.
Acne
Retinoids can help to reduce the appearance of acne, redness and inflammation. They can also minimise the formation of scars. They work by stimulating the production of collagen, which helps to smooth the appearance of pitted and textured acne scars.
Retinol is effective at preventing acne breakouts, particularly when used regularly. It also has comedolytic-related benefits that can improve the look of inflamed acne lesions by reducing the sebum content of these lesions, and by unclogging pores that are blocked by dead skin cells.
When starting a retinol-based skincare regime, a dermatologist will likely prescribe a low percentage (e.g. 0.0015%), advise against using exfoliating scrubs or other products that are likely to irritate the skin, and use a gentle, bland moisturiser – they may recommend the ‘sandwich’ method, where you apply your creams in layers each evening. Retinoids can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight, so should always be applied at night and avoid sunburn.
Fine lines
Tretinoin is an anti-aging cream that reduces fine lines around the eyes and mouth. It also fades actinic keratosis spots and evens skin tone. It can’t reverse severe sun damage or deep wrinkles, however.
Topical vitamin A-based drugs (also called retinoids) are the most researched anti-aging skincare treatments. One of the most effective is tretinoin, under the brand name Ret-A. It’s the most clinically tested of all retinoids, and research shows that it smoothes skin texture, minimises lines, and fades hyperpigmentation (like melasma).
Tretinoin comes in cream or gel form. The type you choose depends on your skin type – cream formulas are more moisturising and better for dry or normal skin, while gels suit oily or combination skin types.
Tretinoin can sometimes cause a dry nose or mouth (xerostomia). Drinking plenty of water, using nasal sprays or artificial saliva to keep your lips moist and applying hydrating lip balm can help. Also, try to protect yourself from sunlight by wearing sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat.
Wrinkles
As you age the natural process of replacing skin cells slows down and fine lines start to appear on your face. Using a topical retinoid like Tretinoin can help to improve the appearance of wrinkles by speeding up skin cell turnover. In addition, it can also reduce discolouration and roughness caused by sun damage.
It’s important to remember that a retinoid will take time to begin working. It may be weeks or even months before you see a difference. If you’re not patient, you might be disappointed with the results.
Another option is Botox(r) (botulinum toxin injections), which can be very effective in reducing wrinkles. However, the procedure is temporary and needs to be repeated every three to four months.
Lastly, there are several reputable telemedicine startups in the UK that offer virtual consultations and skin assessments. Push Doctor, for example, offers Tretinoin branded as Clindamycin for a fee that includes the consultation, prescription and medication.
Age spots
The retinoid ingredient in Tretinoin helps improve the appearance of age spots and reduces pigmentation. It does so by slowing down the desquamation of uppermost layers of skin and accelerating the production of new skin cells.
It can also increase collagen levels and reduce fine lines and wrinkles. This has been shown in clinical trials, and it is an effective treatment for lentigines (age spots) and mottled pigmentation.
Many clinics and dermatologists in the UK offer Tretinoin as a prescription service. However, the process is typically lengthy and requires a physical appointment. UK Meds provides an online prescription skincare service that makes the process quicker, simpler and more convenient.
Apply a small amount of tretinoin gel or cream to clean skin at night before bedtime. Follow with a hydrating and emollient moisturiser if necessary. Avoid using abrasive or harsh facial cleansers or acne treatments whilst you use tretinoin. It may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight so wear a broad spectrum sunscreen during the day. Tretinoin UK