Tretinoin (A-Ret Gel) 0.05% w/v cream is a derivative of vitamin A, which is used to treat all forms of acne on the face and other parts of the body, from dark spots to pimples. It also tends to smooth out rough skin and reduces the wrinkles and lines associated with age. Each cream contains 0.05 % w/v Isotretinoin as its active ingredient.
Drug = Tretinoin
Strength = 0.05% w/v
How to use
Tretinoin comes as a gel, foam, and a cream to apply to the skin.
It is usually applied twice a day, in the morning and the evening.
To help you remember to use Tretinoin, use it at around the same times every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand.
Use Tretinoin precisely as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Dosage of Tretinoin (A-Ret Gel) 0.05% w/v Cream
Uneven skin tone, fine lines and wrinkles or damage brought about by exposure to UV rays :
Adult: 0.02 or 0.05% cream preparation: Apply a pea-sized amount on clean fingers and spread evenly on the face and neck at night. Results can be seen in 6 months
Acne vulgaris:
Adult: 0.01-0.1% cream or gel preparation: Apply once or twice daily on the face after cleansing. Results may be seen in 4-6 weeks.
Missed Dose of Tretinoin (A-Ret Gel) 0.05% w/v Cream
In cases of a twice a day regimen, if the morning application was not done, no need to apply as soon as you remembered missing it. Proceed with the nighttime application and resume timing the next day.
Overdose of Tretinoin (A-Ret Gel) 0.05% w/v Cream
Frequent application of Tretinoin more than the prescribed dose can lead to severe redness of the area of application. If this happens, seek help immediately.
Contraindications
If you suspect being pregnant or lactating, please refrain from using Tretinoin.
Side Effects of Tretinoin (A-Ret Gel) 0.05% w/v Cream
Tretinoin may have the following side effects:
- Irritation of the area of application
- Redness, itchiness and blister formation
- Uneven skin discoloration (temporary)
- Photosensitivity
Warnings
Do not use Tretinoin alongside these products:
- Hair treatment solutions
- Alcohol based toners and shaving creams
- Medicated soaps that cause exfoliation
- Medications (ciprofloxacin, tetracycline, thiazide diuretics)
- Benzoyl peroxide containing facial wash/toners
How Does It Work?
Tretinoin works by stimulating the rapid division of cells and skin cell growth, causing the skin’s uppermost layer to slough or exfoliate. This causes deeply rooted comedones (pimples, whiteheads and blackheads) to resurface and prevents the creation of new comedones.
Uses
Tretinoin is used to treat the following conditions:
- Rough, uneven skin tone
- Skin damage caused by the sun
- Acne
Special Precautions and Warnings
Take special precautions in using Tretinoin if you have one of the following conditions:
- Undiagnosed skin lesion
- Sunburn
- Family history of skin cancer
- Recent use of hair treatment and chemical peeling agents
- Dermabrasion or laser resurfacing
- Renal or hepatic impairment
- Not for use among children less than 18 years of age
- Pregnant or lactating
Storage Conditions
- Store between 15-30°C away from the direct heat of the sun
- Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
- Do not use Tretinoin after its expiry date
