Top Tretinoin Tips! How to Use Tretinoin Without Irritation | Tretinoin Mistakes

[@susanvee1]

I started Tretinoin .10% about 28 years ago. I never use a moisturizer before applying and use soap to wash my face. It literally took me about 2 years before my face was accustomed to it. I do use it around my eyes. I will be 60 in a couple of months and grew up in the south, baking in the sun. I highly recommend everyone use Tretinoin if you can! Don’t give up. It can be rough but it’s worth it!!

[@asrarmohammed3052]

Wow you look stunning .. I think I’ll start using it

[@5117danielle]

Very true! I've been using Tretinoin for many years as well and I still get flaky skin occasionally. I use it all over my face and neck and haven't had any issues with irritation.

[@nurhanturky]

Hey Susan do you use also on the eyelids, I am just a beginner ☺️

[@susanvee1]

@@nurhanturky no I don’t use it on the eye lids, only under the eyes and crows feet area.

[@nurhanturky]

@@susanvee1 thanks 🥰🥰

[@loriedelvillar3785]

I have used retina A for many years since my 20's and I'm 47 years and my skin looks great. You can add glycerin with retin A, it the cocktail of greatness! Try it. I wash my face with face wash and coconut oil and it leaves your skin super smooth. Always wear sunscreen I recommend Elta MD line. It's amazing! All the best! Thank you for sharing.

[@zee-aaliyah]

So how do you do the glycerin/tretinoin?

[@Mamado88]

I’ve gotten lucky with Tretinoin, I started at 0.05 and with naturally dry skin I thought I was in for a wild ride but I was able to work up to nightly after a month and it was only after about two months I got some mild peeling then since then only the tiniest amount every now and then. It’s incredible how much better my skin looks, Tretinoin, vitamin c and sunscreen are the most amazing skin products ever.

[@idab6864]

How do you apply the vit c? Is it like a thick oil?

[@bushramansoor1576]

How do u use these three ? In same routine?

[@daydreameraj9777]

What vitamin c serum are you using?

[@June-i7k]

I use tretinoin with tallow as a moisturizer. I have not had any problem. I wash my face with a gentle cleanser wait two minutes after it dries apply a pea size amount of tretinoin to: my face then wait five minutes and apply whipped tallow. I have used it daily since I received it with no problems.

[@Joannabanana1989]

I have had zero irritation at all using tretinoin. I put it on top of my moisturizer 2-3 times a week at night. My skin looks great. I use the .025%

[@devoryburns2407]

I’m hoping I also have no issues. Retin-A makes me peel like crazy. I am going to give this a try, same strength

[@patriciaannfuentes1114]

Hello. Aree you just using moisturizer and tretinoin? Not incorporating other that two?

[@Joannabanana1989]

Patricia Ann I never add any other actives the day I use tret. I just use the Kose cleansing oil, Aveeno oat gel cleanser, tret and moisturize. I am able to put tret on my bare skin now but it took several months before I felt confident too! If I do notice any dryness, I just put it on after the moisturizer. I still just use it every other night and still .025 strength. My derm gave me .05 as well but I use that on my back (I have body acne as well).

[@dianahnyaboke5196]

I have used it for 1 week my face has some irritation,I don't apply anything before tretin ,I just put it in morning hours,,so am I supposed to start with moisturizer the I add tretin or what?

[@meowmeow1stgen668]

I tried 0.1 and honestly, even though the 0.025 doesn’t seem like it’s doing much, I can use it nightly without much irritation or problem. 0.1 on the other hand is a different beast…

[@Alexellis738]

I’ve been on tretinoin since I was 14 I’m 28 now I have had some flaking at the beginning but it’s a game changer def would recommend it. I’m on .1% now past 6 years and sunscreen reapplying 3 times a day best anti-aging skincare routine in the world

[@soniabouchard8061]

What sunscreen do you wear with retinol?

[@Alexellis738]

@@soniabouchard8061 Avène the eu version fragrance free fluid

[@taytayqueen7024]

@@Alexellis738 that’s Retinol babe not tretinoin

[@Alexellis738]

@@taytayqueen7024 lol read the first sentence “I’ve been on tretinoin” that’s a prescription. Retinol is over the counter babe

[@Alexellis738]

Continue reading I’ve been one .1% for 6 years referring to the tretinoin. Context clues might help you babe ❤️

[@laurah.7663]

A couple things to add about my tret journey, patience absolutely key, cannot use on neck so I mix a bit of lotion with it and apply. Works fine no irritation. I've started using on arms and hands also. These areas always get sun. My hands look better (less brown sun spots) - This was very gradual, but after a few years I can see a difference. Sensitivity on arms, yes. Not as bad as neck, but be careful. Hands, no sensitivity really. What a great video, thank you so much! Details, strength is .05, using for 5 years, 59 yo, very fair skin.

[@ria2218]

You can use it on your neck

[@sslilac]

It took my face 2yrs before it got used to it. I started at lowest dose now I'm at highest. People think I look 15yrs younger than what I am

[@Mich-tr4bt]

I have used Tretinoin for about a year and I started out using it every other day at first. I always slug with Aquaphor after application. I have had very little irritation as a result of applying in this way. I am now using .050 and it's been a game changer. This is the real deal but has to be used consistently and results don't show up for about 6 months in my opinion.

[@jmcd31]

1 of the best tret guides I've seen. Will be referring back to it once i start using it

[@joanneee1037]

I put tretinoin on my eyes (w/ a buffer of course). After consistently doing it for the last couple of months, I stopped getting botox for my crows feet. Saved me money as well.

[@IloveCamels335]

I too want to try tretinoin for my crows feet! Did your lines around the eyes go away completely? Rest of my face is fine but when I smile all these lines start showing which I really wanna figure out some solution for (preferrably not Botox 😜)

[@cozamos]

You talk too much.

[@bnb0510]

I’ve been using Retin A for 15 years. What works for me after so much trial and error is applying the ordinary’s niacinimide and alpha arbutin right out if the shower. I apply a thin layer of Alastin restorative skin repair over it. Wait 30 minutes to an hr then apply Retin A. I recently started using Skin Better’s Alpharhet. I alternate every other day between the two.

[@mibz1117]

I'm a dude, got some altreno and went full raw. Pea size right after showering, every night and now my skin looks porcelain. To all you ladies get yourself altreno, might be the most expensive one but worth it.

[@GoCrazyBaby3]

I’ve been using it for almost 5 months consistently. I initially got it to help acne and haven’t seen any improvements on that front but will continue to use for future me👍🏾

[@yynnddmm]

You have to combine with antibacterial topical creams/toners like clindamycin and benzoyl peroxide. It works for me but they made tretinoin penetrate further into my skin on my 3rd month so I also got retinoid rash

[@marrylo842]

I have been using adaplene on and off for about 2 years but now decided to try tretinoin, always had issues with peeling around the mouth every 5, 6 day , the only time when I didn't even needed any moisturizer was when It was the only ingredient in my routine . My skin looked like glass. Starting tret , confident that my skin will handle it better and if you have problem with peeling use glycerin,works like magic

[@tehmaimed]

My top tip would be to buffer tretinoin always especially when you have sensitive/atopic/reactive skin... I always put it as the last step of my routine after moisturizer/oil. Sometimes I sandwich it between moisturizer and oil, but it always comes after I moisturize my skin. edit: just watched the 5-phase process; guess I'm forever stuck in Phase 3 (been 2 years) but I love that! I do alternate use between BHA and Vitamin C in the mornings, so that's probably also why my skin just cannot tolerate tret at night before moisturizer.

[@Ohkeh640]

How often are you applying it? Leave all the bha and vit c out!

[@tehmaimed]

@@Ohkeh640 my skin can tolerate it nightly now. Using BHA 2-3x a week is what keeps my skin clear along w tret. I don’t experience irritation at this point since my skin is used to it. The bha I use anyways is a derivative (betaine salicylate) which is gentler on the skin than regular SA as well

[@_Welde_]

I’ve heard of this. A few people feel that moisturizing THEN putting on the tret makes it less harsh but still active. What oil do you use? Grape seed?

[@tehmaimed]

@@_Welde_ I’ve been trying out a bunch (love oils) but my holy grails would be jojoba oil, TO Sea buckthorn oil and TO argan oil. if there was one oil I would pick it would be TO argan oil

[@_Welde_]

@@tehmaimed Thank you!!!

[@Loripford]

I have no issues with tret on my neck, however even after 2 years on tret, i still get irritation around my mouth. Ugg! I cant wait for the day that i do not have flaky tret skin!

[@brennnabean]

I just started Tretinoin and made my own skincare journal to track my progress 😊 so excited for this journey!

[@itsme_ak1372]

pls share ur routine..even I'm gonna start in 3 days

[@sirohiachal]

can you share your journey and results please...!!

[@twostarskhan8552]

Share your experience

[@kathleen5800]

I've been on tret 0,05% since 5 months, I've just incorporated BHA in my routine! It's hard not to be able to use others actives but PATIENCE is key!!!! Patience&consistency ✨ And remember that's it's totally okay not to use tretinoin every night!! Remember we want a healthy skin barrier. Don't destroy it for a sake of a random competition of whose skin handles it better.... 2 to 3 times a week is absolutely GREAT! You will get all the benefits!!

[@amandakate5233]

Such a positive comment! I’m still using just retinol myself 😅

[@jenniferschwartz1020]

When you say no other actives, do you mean you don't use vitamin c, bakuchiol, aha / bha, literally any actives whatsoever? I've always alternated tret with other actives, so just curious to hear another take!

[@susanvee1]

I started using tretinoin .10 (with no moisturizer) and never stopped. Never skipped a day and have used it every single day since....for 28 years. I started when I was 32. It takes a while to get used to it. Yes...irritation in the beginning is terrible. But don't give up.

[@amandakate5233]

@@susanvee1 what sunscreen do you use? (And what sunscreen around your eyes?) :)

[@susanvee1]

@@amandakate5233 I use the Australian Gold Tinted sunscreen. I don’t wear foundation so I don’t know how well it works under anything. But I love that stuff! (I live in the south so sunscreen is a must. Unfortunately I didn’t use sunscreen until I was about 30.) oh and same around my eyes.

[@annetterios8789]

I apply moisturizer first let that dry and then apply tretinoin right before bed. No irritation, whatsoever.

[@suziealthens1258]

Game changer! I haven’t been able to use tretinoin every night UNTIL I followed your tip to let my moisturizer dry. Boom! No peeling at ALL. I even used an exfoliant one day after several mornings of no peeling. Magic. Just magic. Thank you! I’ve been using Tret for over 2 years.

[@valentinadonadod8776]

so you cleanse, use moisturizer, let it dry, use tretinoin and that it? please help i dont know whats the order and i wanna start tretinoin but my skin very sensitive

[@suziealthens1258]

@@valentinadonadod8776 you could do this every two or three days, then go to two days, then every day as your skin adjusts.

[@bubblewrappd]

@@valentinadonadod8776 moisturise again on top of Tret as a final step. (It's called a Tret sandwich ☺) LaRoche Posay Cicaplast repairing balm is a good final step for sensitive skin and affordable too! Also try building up Tret one night per week for a whole month. Then 2 nights a week for the next month. Go really slow like that if thats what it takes for sensitive skin. Best of luck!

[@Ohkeh640]

Don’t exfoliate

[@Ohkeh640]

@@bubblewrappd what does the sand which help with and how often to do it? How long do you wait after cleaning to apply the tret then moisturiser

[@carolynlevy3786]

My dermatologist told me when I first started using Trentinoin use it every other night for two weeks and then every night if tolerated. It has worked for me. I'm on 0.025 right now and have been using it for a little over two months. I do have slight flakey skin but not much.

[@carolynlevy3786]

This has been my experience also. In the very beginning I had a really bad hormonal acne breakout on my chin for about two weeks. I have been using Trentinoin for a little over two months and all I have is a little flaking.

[@JessicaMoliterno-i5z]

Did you apply under moisturizer or on top?

[@carolynlevy3786]

​@@JessicaMoliterno-i5z I do the sandwich method moisturizer, Trentinoin, and then moisturizer again.

[@carolynlevy3786]

@@JessicaMoliterno-i5z I do the sandwich method, moisturizer, Trentinoin, and then moisturizer again.

[@4328898]

Great vid thank you! I've been on 0.025 tret for just over 2 months (dermatica) and have started to slowly reintroduce acids (starting with pha which is a more gentle acid). Honestly the hardest part about tret use is exercising self control! I really want to use my pha all the time to try and fast forward 🤣

[@rutasudmantaite9751]

I self diagnosed with comedogenic acne at 17 and got my doctor to prescribe me tretinoin. No one told me how to use it (except put it on every night) and I didn’t even moisturise with it!! This was over 10 years ago when KZbin didn’t have a skincare community. After 5 weeks of intense sensitivity and purging, my skin just adjusted. Would still battle flakiness but overall it was great. I do not recommend doing this! Thankyou for your awesome phasing programme!

[@Mar-pe9kx]

did your comedogenic acne go away with the tret?

[@rutasudmantaite9751]

@@Mar-pe9kx Yh totally cleared it up, I can use glycolic acid to also help but tret has so many other benefits that I still use it now.

[@Mar-pe9kx]

@@rutasudmantaite9751 wow! I was just recently prescribed tret after trying nearly everything for my comedones. I tried adapalene in the past and it didn't work but I'm hoping this does. How long did it take to see results?

[@rutasudmantaite9751]

@@Mar-pe9kx adapalene didn’t work for me either. It was about 2 months before my skin normalised with Tret. I purged really bad and had really bad sensitivity (because I started using it every night from the get go with no moisturiser < not a great move).

[@Mar-pe9kx]

@@rutasudmantaite9751 Oh wow. By "normalized" you mean your clogged pores were gone or you just stopped breaking out really bad. I'm scared since I purged with adapalene but my clogged pores never went away.

[@amassofcontradictions4693]

Question - How to know when you should increase your tret prescription versus just staying at your current dose and letting more time pass on that amount to see it work?

[@jansenlee3319]

I’m almost 3 years in, using only tretinoin as my active and my skin has never looked better. I just turned 40

[@Ohkeh640]

How long do you wait after cleaning to apply the tret then moisturiser

[@elizabethonstage]

Most important tip!!!! WEAR SUNSCREEN DAILY ON TRET ♥️♥️♥️

[@deannahornby944]

As a licensed esthetician these are wonderful tips. Great job girl !

[@allison_may]

Even though I’ve been using tret through Curology/Agency for a couple of years, I still love these videos! I always learn something new!

[@AbbeyYung]

☺️🤍

[@blkqtpy]

They add so much other stuff in those treatments and you only get a little bit of it. They charge so much for so little. You barely even get any tretinoin

[@chathammkm]

This was a great video very instructional but I would also say that one of the areas that you should stay away from, at least initially, is the area around the creases next to your nostrils. This area tends to be sensitive as well so just go slow with the tret there.

[@LeonieGirlnDaWorld]

Yes definitely! and I would add the creases down from your nose to your mouth (marionette lines?) I put Vit A ointment (Ungvita) on those parts (around bottom of nostrils and marionette lines and around the eyes) before I put on the tretinoin to protect them from getting raw - Tretinoin tends to 'bleed' across to these areas if you do not protect them in someway.

[@indiebish7045]

Omg yes

[@kaylan2083]

I use Tretinoin every other day or every 3 days and alternate with Paula's Choice AHA BHA exfoliant. I find that PC gets rid of surface level whiteheads, flaky skin from Tretinoin, etc while I use Tretinoin to go deep in the pores to clear skin that way.

[@Frost4S]

Do you use aha bha in the same routine ?

[@kaylan2083]

@@Frost4S Paula's choice on nights when I don't use tretinoin. I don't use them on the same day.

[@Sowindiee10]

Another thing to help with introducing it slowly, is the short-contact method where for a couple weeks you wash off the tret after 60 mins!!

[@uva-tw4wy]

My derm prescribed me a personal formula of 0,025 tret with antioxs and antibiotics for night use and retinol 1% with vit c and e ferrulic acid and green tee for day. Oh and oral vitamins minerals and other nutrients too

[@nicolevaniderstine7304]

I just got my tret delivered and I’m trying it for the first time tonight! Perfect timing!!!

[@AbbeyYung]

Yay! 🤍

[@AparicioChairez]

Tretinoin can cause liver damage. I've used tretinoin to clear my facial acne and it worked like magic. So well in fact, that I decided to use it ALL over my back for the same problem. The medication gets absorbed by the skin and metabolized in the liver. At low doses it is fine but beware of using too much of it. In my case, I was required to get a liver function test (I'm going through the medical clearance process for The Peace Corps). The results of that test showed that some liver enzymes were elevated which was indicative of liver damage. I stopped using the medication altogether that same day and will retest in a couple of weeks. Apparently, the damage that was detected is reversible, but had I not been ordered to take that test I wouldn't have known and continued to use the medication for a while. If you already have liver dysfunction or are concerned about liver damage ask your doctor to check your liver enzyme levels before, during, and after treatment as a precautionary measure, and of course, only use as prescribed. By the way, I used tretinoin on my back for about three and half weeks before I stopped using it and it actually cleared my back acne and I've hardly had any new breakouts since then.

[@ChocolateBabe_]

Well are you okay? I’ve started using retinol all over my body in the form of lotion

[@bleachedout805]

That's scary 😨. I hope you are good and able to get into the Peace Corp. Yeah that's why it's important to follow doctor's instructions but most medications cause liver damage with long term use.

[@ty-xq7bl]

thanks, i only plan to use it to get rid of some scarring and even out skin after that im off it for good

[@hoo_jii]

How much were you using it?

[@FromDesertTown]

Great video, thanks! I noticed my skin reacts in the opposite way to most others to tretinoin - my forehead and cheeks get red and peel-y, but my neck, eyes and mouth area show no signs of irritation.

[@katydolbeare8117]

My doctor told me NOTHING when she prescribed me this a month ago and I went straight into and tonight after being pissed off because of how dry my skin I just watched this video and I feel dumb. She told me to use no other products besides Trent and my skin got so dry that it was bleeding around the mouth. I will be taking these tips in about a week when my skin has healed…

[@sebumpostmortem]

If it may help, I got a calendar exclusively for tret even when I used ir every single night. I drew a 😐 daily pointing the breakouts (we all have that bunch of pimples that come out in the exact same place, we all know them🧐) to control how the frequency slowed down and how they were weaker and weaker every time until tret finally killed them (took more than a year, btw). Write your period and PMS down too if you' re a cis woman or a trans man (in that case, write T shots too!) It helps to clarify if the pimple has any relation with the cycle or it' s just your skin being a rebel b*tch again. Good luck and repeat: *LOOOOOW & SLOOOOOOOOOOOW* 🧛🏻‍♀️🖤

[@RS-pe1ft]

As a trans man on T, I loveeee your inclusivity 🥰

[@lilacblue3331]

I ain't trans but you made me so happy seeing you added that asking with the awesome advice 🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤

[@DMV8662]

Cis? Trans?? Why TF does that made up 💩need to be mentioned??? PLEAAAASE!!! Its INSANE....🙄🙄🙄 I AM A WOMAN.. PERIOD.. NOT "CIS"... 😡😡😡

[@DMV8662]

​@@RS-pe1ftokaaay???🤦‍♀️🤦‍♀️🤦‍♀️girl

[@b4byddd]

Such a good idea

[@Martwy0Krzyk]

My dermatologist prescribed me adapalene and benzyol peroxide together 😅

[@5imoneta]

I'm currently between phases, I suppose. I do it every other night and always use moisturizer last. I'd like to see a video with a night and morning routing with product details at phase 5!

[@taylorgaglia]

PERFECT time for this video. my skin barrier is going through it rn from tret (literally like the photo you showed in the beginning)

[@Madrid1234apa]

I recomend using the cosrx Propolis ampoule and the Cocokind ceramide barrier serum

[@bnb0510]

Apply a thin layer of cereve pm lotion after you wash your face. Wait 30 minutes to an hr then apply the Retin A.

[@kathleen5800]

cicaplast will help you!!

[@jenessastrickland1555]

This is super helpful! I’ve learned a lot about tret over the last year or two, but you’ve laid out all the info very nicely here. Well done!

[@nikki2370]

hi Abbey!! I'm watching after a 16 hour shift. I stayed extra because people called in. so this is my shower time video. thank you!

[@AestheticallyJess_]

My derm recommended applying anything left after applying it to my face onto the tops of my hands!

[@geslinam9703]

Yes! Work your way up to full strength slowly. And I so much agree that it helps if you use an OTC topical exfoliant for 6 months or a year before, as I did. I used a 14% salicylic acid serum. Even now that my skin is very tolerant of Tretinoin, I still always mix it with a dab of fragrance free moisturizer from Derma E. I mix it at an even weaker strength and put it on my neck, arms, hands every night. AND SUNSCREEN. I have a friend who uses Tretinoin and still tans. What the hell? So pointless. Everyone balks at the price of Tretinoin…but since I started using it, I no longer waste a ton on other skincare products. No need for them. The only other thing I splurge on is a good retinol eye cream. I am a little concerned about using Tretinoin on the eyelid. I’ve done it with no issues….but the eyelid skin is so delicate…why take a chance?

[@queenlyfanatic9842]

May I ask what retinol eye cream you splurge on? 😊

[@geslinam9703]

@@queenlyfanatic9842 none at this point, didn’t see any results. I used a few different ones, First Aid Beauty, Paula’s Choice, Le Lift Creme Yeux (Chanel) Now I’m using a non retinol eye cream from Dermatology (multivitamin power firm) that is even more than $50 but is really moisturizing and long lasting.

[@DMV8662]

I have 0 issues with tret on eyelids.. I only use from crease bone up to brow... My 58 y.o. lids are smooth as butter...🤷‍♀️ I use an occlusive cream on top tho after.. CeraVe

[@MaggieFrett]

I started with the lowest dose, .009% once a week for 3 weeks, then twice a week for 3 weeks and basically added an extra day every 3 weeks until I could use it daily. I have dry skin and used Tretinoin after my moisturizer absorbed. Then I used the next percentage up and did the same except on alternate days I used the lower percentage without a problem. After four years I am using 1.35%, the highest and can use this every other day. Once I could use .05% Tretinoin daily, I introduced vitamin C in the morning once a week for 3 weeks and then twice a week for 3 weeks, etc, etc.

[@sashaalvarez9957]

I have been using Differin Gel 5 days out of the week for the past year in preparation for Tretinoin. Watching this video was the little extra push I needed to transition to Trentinoin 🥰🙏🏼

[@romycullen17]

I used differin before being swtiched to treinoin 0.025 and it's been wonderful, good luck!

[@JoannaMarieSanders]

Hi! Any special steps you did on transitioning from differin to tretinoin?

[@purplew93]

Hey! I also made this leap. I used Differin gel every night for several months before switching to Tretinoin .025. I had no sensitivity on Tret .025 so after finishing that bottle, I switched to .05 which is more effective for anti-aging. No peeling yet. Moisturizing like crazy though. I have dry sensitive skin so I’m really happy there’s been no irritation so far.

[@jmcd31]

Im gonna do the exact same 🙂

[@sonakshigoyat]

​@@purplew93 heya kindly suggest me your skincare routine for morning and night time. Also do you moisture before using tretinoin? And also what are the steps for using that diffin

[@wendyhorvath415]

I’m 55 and I’ve found that simple is best . I don’t fall for all the pile on and buy everything….

[@Ohkeh640]

How long do you wait after cleaning to apply the tret then moisturiser What products are you using

[@jmwonderland2601]

Thank you! I just got Tretinoin and I’m so excited 😃

[@aw_artlover]

Am using it every night - 2.5 months now. The first 2 weeks my skin got irritated but now it is very good! I used to have very expensive skincare products and go to beauty clinic every month but now just this cheap option heals all my skin issues! I’m mid 30 n my skin is better than my mid 20! Hope to see more good results 😊.

[@thereality3398]

Can men use tretinioin too ?

[@aw_artlover]

@@thereality3398 i actually recommend that to my bro! Highly recommended

[@freebird7207]

It's been one year with tret 0.025%.. but only after moisturizer.. haven't tried it underneath yet 🙈🙈🙈

[@victoriareviel1805]

What are the best products to keep your body looking young? Retinol Body Lotion?

[@Ohkeh640]

Can you list the skincare products you use. Show us your pm routine, cleanser moisturiser. How long you wait to apply tret and moisturiser etc? And what you use to remove your make up

[@Melon29813]

Great tips! While my skin could always handle tret really well, I could never get to where I could use other actives with it; no matter what I did. I had to stop using it because it wasn't strong enough to keep my acne at bay on its own (that's why I started using it), but it was too irritating to use with other things. Now I use adapalene, and my skin looks just as good as it did with tretinoin, but without the acne!

[@victoriaa8821]

Tazorac is a great option! Keeps my acne away and skin glowing🎉

[@Melon29813]

@@victoriaa8821 I tried Tazorac aswell. It ended up working the way tret did for me, though it did do pretty good when I first got on it (the results definitely didn't stay as good as they started though). It was also too strong for me to use other actives with

[@caseywoodbury3412]

I’ve been using prescription tretinoin every night for a year, I didn’t work up to every night, my skin tolerated it unusually well. I do my entire face (including eye area), neck, chest, hands and forearms. I do slug 3 or 4 nights per week. My only adjustment was peeling in the beginning, I never had burning, irritation or redness.

[@boooooommmerj]

Hi. Did you go through tretinoin purging?

[@caseywoodbury3412]

@@boooooommmerj I never had a breakout or redness/burning. I did go through the peeling process, but it only lasts a week or two and the end result is great. I cannot say everyone’s skin would accommodate prescription tretinoin as easily as mine, my experience sounds unusual compared to other’s. I’ve not missed a nightly application since the first time I used it. I continue to be very surprised and pleased with the improvements tretinoin offers, it truly works.

[@Ohkeh640]

How often are you using it? What strength? with what cleanser moisturiser etc? Can you explain how to slug Also do you wait a certain time after cleansing your face to apply it? And then do you wait a certain time to apply moisturiser? Thanks :) And what do you slug with etc Would love to hear the products and step by step how you apply and if you wait before applying product etc xx

[@caseywoodbury3412]

@@Ohkeh640 I use prescription tretinoin 0.05% cream, not gel. I use it every night from forehead to base of chest, my hands and forearms. I am not suggesting everyone jump right in and use it every night, I was able to do it only because my skin tolerated prescription tretinoin exceptionally well. As I said, I did experience initial peeling/shedding of skin, but that wasn’t unexpected. I cleanse with Hadalobo Gokujun cleansing oil, then follow up with a brief cleanse of vanicream gentle facial cleanser (not a foaming cleanser). Once my skin has dried I apply the tretinoin to all areas listed above. I try to wait at least 30 minutes before following up with moisturizer, though I’ve read it’s not necessary to wait that long. I moisturize with CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream (not lotion). When I slug I follow all steps above then cover all areas with CeraVe Healing Ointment. I used to spend great amounts of money on skincare until I started researching what ingredients were the real workhorses that truly are effective. I now spend less than 1/4 of what I used to spend on skincare with much better results. Both cleansers are around $10-$15 and last at least 7 or more months, my tretinoin prescption is $15 (monthly), the CeraVe moisturizer is around $15 and lasts about 6 months, and the CeraVe Healing Ointment is around $18, I purchased it 3 years ago and I’m not even halfway through the tub. I’d be embarrassed to tell you how much I used to spend on skincare with extremely low results. The key workhorse is prescription tretinoin. I’m considering moving up to 0.1% strength tretinoin. Again, please consider what your skin can handle. I had an extremely comfortable adjustment period with tretinoin, in that I didn’t burn, experience purging or redness. This is not the most common experience. If I missed any information you requested, don’t hesitate to contact me again. I’m also on Facebook under Casey Woodbury

[@kmars3239]

Thanks for sharing, I just started mine for forehead wrinkles, I pray it helps

[@kmars3239]

I just started this, asked for it because I’m definitely afraid of Botox, so I pray it helps with for wrinkles

[@tinat232]

Great tips! I could have used this video about a year ago. I did almost all the wrong things 😆. Side note...your channel has really grown since I started watching. Very well deserved! Congrats!

[@Loripford]

Same here! I wish i had this video 2 years ago when i started tret. I started out using tret and vit c together and it was a bad combo! It was a while before i could use those together. I still get flaky skin even after 2 years. Also, i remember when Abby had 10k subscribers, then 30 then 40k. Her channel has grown so quickly and it had been a pleasure to watch. Love her!

[@Amara_Op]

​@@Loripford but u can use vit c in the morning and tret in the night time ..right? Correct me pls if I'm wrong

[@suziealthens1258]

Thank you for making this so clear. I really roasted my skin by putting CereVe over Tret. Thought it would moisturize the dry, flakey skin. Not so much. Took awhile to get that cleared up and now I know (thanks to you!) to take it slow and introduce anything else even more slowly.

[@wydmatt7294]

when u mention cerave do u mean a cerave moisturizer?

[@devoryburns2407]

Oh I need to pay attention because that’s exactly what I’m doing

[@momoso143]

Make sure the moisturizer you’re using doesn’t have hyluronic acid in it because the hyluronic pulls whatever you’re using it with deeper into your skin. This is what I heard from another dermatologist!

[@zammyr6807]

Hey Abbey! I started using The Inkey List's Retinol once a week. Then I added adapalene to my routine. I was kind of scared of the possible irritation and purging, but my skin adapted so well I never had any of those. Now, after using adapalene for 6 months I switched to Tretinoin mainly because of you! I saw your videos about your journey with Tret and so I did my research and decided to start using it. Been using it for two weeks and I've seen some flaking, mainly because I've been using a lotion as moisturizer instead of a cream but that's just because I didn't have money until now lol. I also exfoliate twice a week so I'll cut down on that but I'm putting all my faith that Tret is going to help me with my hormonal acne and just achieve a really nice, healthy skin!

[@baileydubs]

I’ve been on tret for a few months and my skin has definitely improved, but keep in mind, no skin is perfect! I wish you luck on your journey!

[@zammyr6807]

@@baileydubs omg, those are such nice words of encouragement! Thank you so much! I'm glad Tret has worked for you!

[@Risehighshine-11]

What exfoliation do you use? Chemical or physical

[@daydreameraj9777]

Did you purge after transitioning to tret? Did you get better results? Any tips?

[@zammyr6807]

@@Risehighshine-11 chemical! I avoid physical exfoliation at all costs!

[@InesMarjanovic]

this came right on time! I just started tret about a week ago. :)

[@NadiaDakroub]

Just what I needed. Each time I use my new trentinoin I get irritation which is detrimental for melasma. I'm going to try her last tip to see if I can build it up.

[@aishadahir3661]

I have been using 4 months tri 0.05 at first my skin so glowy and cleared my acne for almost two weeks of using then my skin just become less glowy and more oily , greasy and break outs and now I stopped my skin feels ok the excess oil has gone but no glow and smal pimples at time

[@ninan582]

Abbey! Love your videos because you cover soooo much and different price ranges not to mention you just seem to have a lovely personality that really comes through the camera :) Would you ever do a clean beauty/skincare video? Or maybe you have ones I didn’t see. Ty!

[@AbbeyYung]

Thank you so much! 🤍 It’s on my list!

[@leeannlowery5064]

I appreciate your tips because I trust them! You didn’t mention adjusting the strength of your Tret as an option. Did you start with the .1%? I had to start at .025% and have worked up to .05% every night. Getting ready to up my game to .1% so these tips are timely for me. I know you use the Needleless Serum and TO peptides with copper (now I do too) but it sounds like you only use them during the day? If only Tret and a moisturizer at night, which moisturizer? I know some of this is in other videos but I did think you used other products at night. Thanks for clarifying!

[@acya20]

Tretinoin must not be applied around eyes or near eyelids. Irritation you’re mentioning is a minor issue. If it comes in contact with the eyelids and is absorbed, it can destroy epithelial cells in the meibomian glands and cause significant dry eye symptoms that will be impossible to resolve.

[@taradiane]

i just got tret this week and i thought, i really need some good info on how to best use this - i bet abbey has something....lo and behold you have several lol. thank you SO MUCH for this and the skin barrier vid you also linked (i'll be watching that one tomorrow). i really appreciate how simple and informative these videos are, i can always count on you being concise and thorough when i need something specific like this. :)

[@ellenfrancis7155]

Irritation is not the only result of tretinoin around the eyes. No one talks about this but tretinoin can permanently cause dry eye syndrome or dry eye disease!! The studies show cause and effect and some ophthamologists will tell you after you start experiencing symptoms. There are tiny oil glands in the upper and lower eyelids that keep the eyes moisturized and prevent natural tears from evaporating. It’s essential for healthy eyes. Tretinoin around the eyes died out these glands and it can be impossible to reverse. This is a life altering condition that you should address!!! It especially affects the demographic of pre and post menopausal women. Even if you avoid the eyes, it can migrate while you’re sleeping and it will be on your pillowcase. Approach with caution. I’ve had to eliminate using it completely because of this and, had I known about this possibility, I never would have started it. Totally not worth it. We need to know about this serious side effect!!

[@mickie007e]

I'm just starting differin. Hoping I will get some results for fine lines

[@user-ij7cv2wl5h]

I have been thinking about starting Tretinoin so this video came at a great time. Can you use The Ordinary’s Buffet + copper peptides in the morning routine?

[@caitroseco6752]

I use retinol and I would loveeeee to start tret. Wish prescription wasn’t required 😢

[@lavayuki]

I just got Differin cream, I have dry sensitive skin so will use your tips!

[@EberhardtTheReindeer]

Your channel is helping me learn how to prioritize my self-care again.🥰

[@attimesava1596]

The disbelief when you said to stop slugging. I started doing that when my skin got irritated from retinol but…I was applying it over damp skin lol so make sense. Okay, so stop slugging, got it

[@Kim-ri1hg]

Abbey I’ve been watching you for a while and love your mascara and self tan videos. I have a question 🙋‍♀️ How did you self tan on your face while starting tret and getting also acclimated to tret? Did you wait til you were in phase 3, I know irritation and peeling can happen? Would that be messy with self tanner on the face ? Thanks 😊

[@HaleyBittyGirl]

My derm put me on tret without any information on it or what it would do. I’ve been struggling with it and this video is so helpful!

[@richardnguyen8042]

same the struggle is real

[@reemiecore]

I used retinol for a few weeks and now I’m ready for tretinoin!! 💆🏻‍♀️

[@reemiecore]

I’m starting tretinoin this week hopefully I’ll have beautiful skin 🥹

[@AlaaRawia-vw4ef]

Any updayes

[@bepositive9992]

These are my notes, may not be exactly what she said. Also, a great video and I trust her information. Correct me if I'm mistaken somewhere or if there is something to add. Cheers!  Keep your skin care routine basic in the beginning: gentle cleanser, maybe a hydrating serum, moisturizer, tretinoin, SPF.  Avoid other active ingredients to prevent the irritation (AHA, BHA, VIT. C, etc) and introduce them slowly.  Apply it on dry skin to avoid irritation.  You can use a gentler retinoid on the sensitive areas (around the eyes, neck) OR the sandwich method with tretinoin and moisturizer.  If you can tolerate, apply an occlusive layer or do slugging around your eyes or on face, but this can enhance the irritation from the tretinoin.  If it happens to damage your barrier, stop using tretinoin and focus on moisturizing, replenishing ingredients, slugging, SPF.  Best to do it in PHASES: PHASE 1: Apply every 3-4 nights & after moisturizer PHASE 2: Apply every other night & after moisturizer PHASE 3: Apply every night & after moisturizer PHASE 4: Apply every night & alternate the days applying before and after moisturizer PHASE 5: Apply every night & before moisturizer

[@alexaderrico7415]

I love the idea of using the DRMTLGY needless serum before Tret like you do because it has got so many good ingredients BUT.... aren't peptides not supposed to be used with retinoic acid? Help!

[@victoriavu4748]

I found you and found totally convincing. Thank you

[@BeautifulDisaster2121]

What about Niacinimide before tretinion

[@heymisswest]

I do this and it's working well just make sure it's dry

[@heheboi1111]

Can we use azelic acid while using tretinoin? and during the flaky stage, should we continue applying tretinoin or discontinue until the flaky skin becomes normal?

[@uguruchiamakaeunice3821]

is there a difference between treionion and retina soap? Please 🙏🙏 currently using the retina soap don't know if to switch to tretionion🤔

[@carolesimmons9476]

Wow so glad I stumbled on your video. I used Tretinoin on and off for years but was from a doctor’s office and he bought it in Mexico-when I went to real script Tretinoin I have to do .025. Trying now to use on a regular basis. I peel but is that ruining my barrier? I just apply to dry skin but now should I apply over my nighttime skin care-SkinMedica Essential Serum, Skinceuticals Resveratrol, Hylaronic acid, eye cream and moisturizer? Im only using about two nights a week. FYI I’m 73 but used all medical grade skincare for 35 years- just not Tret with any consistency

[@elektrasjostedt5025]

Currently using tret .05, still peeling after 1 year, makeup looks horrible. Watching this panicing because my wedding is coming up in may 🙈

[@jaqsro]

I guess I love this channel and you are SO pretty!

[@kingloca13]

Can you do an actual video or, tutotial on you skin care routine using tretinoin around the eyes so that i know how to apply it on my face..

[@teri2466]

Retinoids can damage the cells of eye glands that produce oil, leading to dry eye. Opthalmologists recommend keeping retinoids away from your eyes.

[@morganjackson4312]

I decided to stop using it after constant break outs and starting to cause a little scarring

[@Merry2398]

Can you recommend best moisturizer? Which we can apply before and after Tretinoin ? Please

[@Lilithe1]

I wish I knew what you were referring to when you keep saying "if your skin looks like this" and showing a picture of yourself. If you mention what specifically is wrong in that pic, I missed it. But every time you show the pic I really can't see what is "wrong".

[@BeHealing]

I use tret on my neck and eyes. I started with avoiding those areas then would, as you said, not apply any more product but just take what I had after applying to my face to my neck area. Sometimes I would get itchy neck if I put too much on, but I persisted and I still do this same level of it now every night. For the eye area i do the same, I tried this once my neck was good with it all. Just not applying any more product but swiping what I have left over the eye area. I haven’t had any irritation there. I don’t think I would ever apply more product to either of these areas though.

[@PlumHorizon]

Do you apply it on the chest area too ?

[@BeHealing]

@@PlumHorizon no, hmm do you?

[@PlumHorizon]

@@BeHealing I used to use retinol there, but just started tretinoin yesterday !

[@Morganfan101]

I always mix a pea sized amount with my moisturizer, but I still get irritation under my eyes, and peeling around my nose and chin. 🙁

[@sebumpostmortem]

Have you tried to protect this areas with vaseline or directly skip them? The tret will migrate anyways so you won' t miss the benefits. Pampered Wolf has a video with a "map" drawed on her face with a red pencil🤣🙌🏻 wich looks like a Mickey Mouse silhouette. Hope it helps 🧛🏻‍♀️🖤

[@Morganfan101]

@@sebumpostmortem I have avoided my eye area, but I feel that’s where I need it the most!! I will try the Vaseline, and I’ll look into the face map… thank you so much!!

[@sebumpostmortem]

@@Morganfan101 IKR Crow's feet and dark spots around this area are my biggest concern. But, in spite of being difficult to believe, the tret migrates everywhere overnight. Like a drop of water on a tissue. 🧛🏻‍♀️🖤

[@Morganfan101]

@@sebumpostmortem wow, I didn’t know that, that’s great to know!! Thanks!!

[@bnb0510]

Don’t mix it together. Apply the moisturizer first and wait a little before you apply the Retin A.

[@Soso-ok8jz]

Took 6 months for my neck to handle tretinoin, have patience you get there.

[@C4RYB34R]

One should not use a serum before tret, it increases penetration...

[@jacquelynlane7905]

Good video. I'm about 3 years into using Tretinoin, and I had to learn some of these things the hard way. Cutting out the "actives" was absolutely key to reducing itchiness, redness, and peeling in the first year and making the acclimation process tolerable. Go slow, follow the instructions of your doctor, and be patient. It gets worse before it gets better, but it will get better! For me, it was very worth it. I started using it primarily to help control hormonal acne around my chin and jaw area, which for me mostly manifests as tiny, deep keratin plugs that create bumps on the skin and take months and months to surface. It was incredibly frustrating as a woman in my late 30s to still be dealing with these issues. I had trouble preventing myself from picking and I constantly had scabs on my face. After 3 years using tretinoin, my acne is 90% gone.

[@monalizasmile28]

Could you please make a video for eye care specially for very very sensitive skin ❤

[@cococgb5389]

Great advice Abby! I never used any retinols & got excited to try T .. my skin was great but T brought out Rosacea! I stopped went back to soothing oils and I’m fine .. i will start w a Gentle retinol in time 💗🕊💪

[@mooramsravanireddy289]

Hi....how did you cure ur rosacea...pls mention 😭

[@akhiker01]

QUESTION ? Would LRP Cicaplast work well under TRETINOIN and after Tretinoin especially eye and neck area ?? Thank you 😊.

[@Emmers1983]

This is really helpful. Thank you!

[@chickennuggets6390]

if you wouldn’t mind and had time, would it be okay if you made an updated morning and nighttime routine? i got curious after watching this video 👉👈