Patient Resources

Retinol is approved for the treatment of sun damaged (photo damaged) skin in combination with a total sun avoidance/sun protective skin program. It stimulates the production of new cells in the skin. It also increases the supply of blood, decreases the color of sun spots and may increase collagen production in the areas where it is used. Retinol provides an effective method of reducing the signs of aging skin caused by excessive sun exposure. It can improve the quality of your skin, give it a better texture, reduce fine wrinkling, lighten hyperpigmentation and replace skin dullness due to sun damage.

Instructions

•  Use one time daily at night, DO NOT use during the day.
• Clean your face with a gentle cleanser. Pat skin dry and wait 5-10 minutes before applying.
• Apply a small amount, pea-sized (1 pump) of Advanced Retinol on your fingertip. Apply a thin even coat to the skin.
• Start with using Advanced Retinol once every 3 days, increase the next week to every other day and slowly work up to every night over a course of a few weeks. 
• Skin Irritation- In the first weeks of treatment, you are likely to experience a sensation of dryness, redness, peeling and scaling on the areas you are treating. However, these effects are temporary and will usually disappear after the first few weeks of treatment, once your skin has adjusted to the cream. 
• To help avoid skin dryness, you may apply a moisturizer after the Advanced Retinol has absorbed.
•  If the effects of treatment produce severe irritation (stinging or burning), it is recommended to skip a few nights for skin to normalize. Once skin normalizes decrease your application to every other night or every third night, until your skin can again tolerate treatment every night. If your skin gets too irritated, stop use, and let your skin care specialist know.
• Do not apply Advanced Retinol more often than recommended. Too much may irritate your skin and will not give you faster or better results.
• Increased Susceptibility to Sunburn- Use of Advanced Retinol may increase your ability to sunburn. The use of sunscreen SPF 30-50 is recommended during normal and recreational activities. We urge that you always wear a sunscreen to prevent further sun damage.
• Retinol may also have been prescribed for your acne. This topical works by normalizing the secretion of oils from your pores and loosening blackheads. If you are using it for acne, you may notice worsening of acne during the first 4-6 weeks. Improvement usually begins around 8 weeks and continues with continued use.
• You can expect a slight improvement within 4-8 weeks and even more benefit in 4 months. People who see you occasionally may be more likely to notice the difference than people (or yourself) who see you every day.
• Avoid excessive irritation like rubbing, too much washing, astringents, harsh soaps or buff puffs.
•  Do not use Retinol if you are pregnant or nursing.