Can Anyone Use Retin-A?

There are a number of skin care products on the market today, which contain an ingredient called Retin-A. This ingredient is actually a form of vitamin A, which is very beneficial in treating certain skin conditions, such as acne. The benefits of Retin-A can also improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on the surface of the skin. In most cases, Retin-A is completely safe to use on the skin, but there are a few exceptions.

People with acne should consult a doctor before using skin care products containing Retin-A. This ingredient will often irritate the skin at first, then lessen with regular application. In the case of acne, it could make the outbreak worse before it starts to get better. Some people use products with Retin-A to reduce the appearance of stretch marks. While the benefits of Retin-A include diminishing lines and wrinkles, pregnant women should not use any products containing this ingredient for skin care, until after their baby is born.  

Products containing Retin-A will help reduce the appearance of lines on the face by penetrating the skin's surface to reach the cells underneath in order to stimulate the production of collagen. Collagen makes the surface skin more pliable, which in turn reduces the number of lines and wrinkles that appear. People allergic to tretinoin should not use products containing this ingredient. An easy skin care routine including the application of Retin-A, could help even out skin tones. The benefits of Retin-A include reducing the appearance of red areas on the face, which makes the overall skin color more even. People with even skin tones tend to look healthier and more radiant.