Severe acne is a problem is that plagues many people of all ages. Certainly, acne can be a real nightmare for the average teenager just trying to get by and “be cool” with his or peers. Of course, it can also be tremendously embarrassing for adults who suffer from it, too. There’ve been dozens, if not hundreds of different treatments created specifically to combat acne – some are too expensive, some are too hard to use, and some simply don’t work. One of the most powerful solutions to combat acne is called Retin-A. Read on for more information about this drug.

How Retin-A Works, and How to Use It?

Retin-A, also known as tretinoin, is a derivative of vitamin A, and is a powerful treatment for common blackheads and whiteheads. The way that Retin-A works is by increasing skin cell turnover. This means that your skin cells work harder and more often to push out the material that can plug your pores – in other words, acne. It also prevents the creation of new acne clusters. In addition to fighting acne, Retin-A has other skin care benefits – it’s proven to reduce wrinkles.

Retin-A is a topical cream that’s very easy to use. Simply apply a small layer of the cream on your face at night, once every other night or so. It’s important to practice additional skin care techniques at the same time – such as using a moisturizer and facial scrub. Doing so will not only help Retin-A work against your acne, it’ll also help stop the flaking that can occur as a side of effect of the medicine.

How to Get Retin-A?

Retin-A should be within the affordability range of just about everyone – even teens working a summer job. A tube of the Retin-A cream costs about $25 for a 40-gram tube, and larger sized containers are also available. Additionally, as Retin-A is a prescription medicine, you’ll need to consult a physician or dermatologist before you can get Retin-A. Still, the annual costs for using Retin-A will be less than $1,000.

Side Effects Caused by Retin-A

Side effects caused by using Retin-A primarily occur early in the treatment. Your face may actually break out worse for the first weeks of using Retin-A. After that, the biggest problems that are likely to occur are sunburn-like peeling of the skin. These symptoms can be fought with oral steroids and ointments that your doctor will prescribe. However, if you develop more severe, progressive symptoms, contact your doctor straight away.