RETIN-A FOR ACNE|Dr Dray Vlogmas Day 21

[@leshemrae]

I just want to thank you for acknowledging that acne is a disease. You have no idea how many dermatologists I have been to that have no sympathy or understanding. I have been pushed out the door so many times with a prescription for Accutane with little to no care about the root cause for my acne. I've been on 3 rounds of Accutane with no lasting results which has made me rethink the root cause is hormonal. I just started Spironolactone and a Tretinion gel which I'm hoping will help. I can't thank you enough. Your videos have educated me and given me the confidence to advocate for myself while dealing with careless doctors. Hearing you acknowledge that acne is a disease just made me tear up because I've never seen this kind of empathy from a dermatologist before. Thank you Dr. Dray!

[@synclarva8695]

Did tretinoin work? I'm starting today.

[@aznmayo]

@@synclarva8695 hey! hows your skin now?

[@aura53]

@@aznmayo how is your skin?

[@lorim521]

Yes! In my experience, it’s treated like a cosmetic issue. I get pushed out the door at the derm too as if I’m being vein. They totally dismiss the fact that it is a disease and it has real psychological effects

[@lindahansen2237]

I really appreciate your compassion and caring for your patients who experience acne, and your understanding of the importance of treating it as a disease, and not simply a cosmetic issue. I had serious acne as a young person, and am so grateful to hear you speak to the potential emotional and social consequences of the breakouts and scarring. I have listened to many of your videos, but this message showed me you are not only knowledgeable and willing to present factual information, but a truly empathic person. I wish someone had spoken this to me years ago. Thank you.

[@dinosaur0bot]

Thank you so much for addressing self esteem and depression and stresssing taking it seriously. I used retina micro as a teenager and I had amazing skin, since acne was controlled. When I went to college I stopped using it as I was away from home. My skin was terrible. I was convinced that it was my terrible eating and it spiraled self esteem as well as disrupted my eating behaviors since I became obsessed with diet. After many years I went on accutane and thought my acne would “cured,” but I still get acne still. After many years of thinking there is no hope, I’m going back to the dermatologist, but much more informed. I’m so so thankful to you for bringing me to this breakthrough. I realize now that my late adolescence could have been different if I would have kept going to the dermatologist instead of trying to fix it myself.

[@DrDrayzday]

:)

[@britnysnyder4991]

Yes i tried to fix it myself also for a long time Now I wish i didnt cuz I got way more scars than i had to have

[@roychefets2905]

Some years ago one of the world's most famous plastic surgeons told me about two sisters about 35 who came to see him. He said they had the most beautiful skin he he had ever seen so he asked them about it. They said that as teenagers they both had bad cases of acne. So their doctor put them on Retin-A and they had stayed on it.

[@DrDrayzday]

:)

[@juancasen9776]

i guess I am quite off topic but do anyone know a good website to stream new series online ?

[@juancasen9776]

@Vincent Shepard thanks, I signed up and it seems like a nice service =) Appreciate it !!

[@vincentshepard9304]

@Juan Casen you are welcome xD

[@Decomposingfigure]

This channel continues to excel! From vegan recipes to retin-a facts, your content is compelling, informative, and amusing!

[@DrDrayzday]

thanks!

[@cassienix2471]

Well that explains a lot. I was wondering why I was having such a sudden outbreak of hormonal acne when I am on Differin. My dermatologist went on leave and in her place was a young resident who very condescending told me that "you women are imagining things. There is no such thing as increased acne during your periods". After I picked my jaw from the floor, I told him I have been a woman for 50 years and I can safely tell him my imagination is not that powerful. The nurse almost choked trying to disguise her laughter. Seriously, I was missing you right badly at that ill fated appointment. Sigh. Merry Xmas to you and your mum!

[@DrDrayzday]

:)

[@ronakrodrigues2604]

This product is proven to clear acne!Click here to buy retinol 0.1%! (Really low price) rover.ebay.com/rover/0/0/0?mpre=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.co.uk%2Fulk%2Fitm%2F163279036448

[@stephaniecisneros1003]

Haha I love you.

[@mishalkhan8151]

My doctor prescribed me a 0.1% tret directly and I have never used tret before. I will probably use half a pea size of the tret with half pea size moisturizer on top of my already moisturized face. I will use it once a week for the first 4 weeks.

[@mariaeujoks]

I have hormonal acne. Trentinoin did not eliminated them, but I have them less frequently and when it occurs, they heal incredibly fast!

[@Norawarsame]

I had hormonal acne. I use multiple vitamins and retin a. Within 15 days my skin stopped breaking out and redness has been very reduced and vitamins helped with that. Retin a is helping me get the perfect skin. I think hormonal acne should be cured from inside with vitamins and and then use retin a. Please try vitamin a and zing for two weeks u swear you will be happy. I have been suffering with acne for three years and Omg tried everything but I didn't believe that the vitamins deficiency could be the reason.

[@cryptonema]

@@Norawarsame What vitamin that youve been using to help relieved your hormonal acne?

[@lifeinterrupted678]

My board-certified derm did not stress let alone mention the importance of using sunscreen while treating the skin with retinoids. I’m a “darker skin type.” Perhaps that’s why. Assumptions, assumptions about my assumptions about sunscreen on dark skin? Fortunately, I had read enough to know it’s critical to apply sunscreen, especially while treating the skin with tretinoin but I’m displeased that she never advised such. When I see her again I’m going to ask some questions. Your thoughts about the finding that “dark Black skin” (dark is subjective) has a natural SPF 13? Ever considered doing a video on skincare myths?

[@DrDrayzday]

that is actually true, it does have a natural spf...but not enough and spf does not reflect protection from uva...so everyone needs spf

[@shotinmyheart]

Mine didn’t either but it’s in the drug information I was provided.

[@jenk6895]

Well when I was in my early 20’s I had a black friend tell me once that he “couldn’t burn” lol. I guess LOTS of people are confused about all of that :). He may have just been pulling my leg but I didn’t know any different so I believed him. I remember thinking that maybe it was an evolution in black skin from the poor people in Africa who couldn’t afford to protect themselves against the sun. Anyways I just thought of that reading your comment. So yes, people are often ignorant about things that they don’t personally have to deal with but it certainly doesn’t help either when there’s people going around making things up to be funny. I have, consequently, misinformed at least 5-10 people by now with my “knowledge” that black people can’t burn! Lol!

[@ispeaktheheartofgod]

Dark skinned black ppl do not burn. She never said that she said we need spf and we do but most of do but get sun burn like white ppl

[@katebetke]

Can you do a video on treating acne wounds? I.e., swelling, scabs, secondary infection, etc. I know we aren’t suppose to pick our pimples but in times of anxiety I can’t help it and I want to treat the wounds to reduce scaring

[@desertoasis2024]

I developed mild scarring from shingles that broke out on my face and scalp. I'm considering going on retin-A again to heal the scars. I was administered the shingles vaccine, so I'm good for the next 7 years till I have to get those vaccinations again. Shingles scars the skin. I was 47 years old when I contracted shingles. It was all over my head and face. Terrible! Retin-A does work and works well to heal scars.

[@michelleparsons5667]

Differin has really helped my hormonal acne. I used to get big, painful under the skin bumps that looked red and angry! LOL. Now if I get any bump around that time of the month, it’s small, not painful and gone in a couple of days. Before Differin, it could take up to two weeks to go away and leave a dark spot behind.

[@DrDrayzday]

glad to hear it helped Ms Michelle!

[@nvpr8720]

Thank you for this video! The dermatologist I saw prescribed this and didn’t tell me anything about it, she was in such a rush that I felt like I couldn’t ask anything, again thank you!

[@gardenfullofcolour]

Hormonal acne! The story of my life. As a teenager I've never had a problem with acne. As i got older "wiser" its literally hunting me! I found that tretinoin is helping with addiction of a pill (Lucette). Thank you for this video!

[@DrDrayzday]

:)

[@rirican1787]

Trention has saved my skin after differn stopped working . I actually stopped wearing makeup to work. My skin still has PIH but my acne is down to 10 %. I didn't experience the purge since I was using Differn before that. It gets better guys 😚😚❤❤❤❤. Thank you Dr Dray you have helped me so much. 😘😘😘😘

[@DrDrayzday]

so awesome to hear!

[@fionaallan6116]

How long did it take for you?

[@adtiashok6509]

Fiona Allan - I had moderate acne only on my cheeks. I have been using tretinoin since 4 months.. And my skin looks amazing.. A little mild scarring is there though, but its soon going away..

[@rirican1787]

It takes a while for scarring to go away. I still have the majoirity

[@adtiashok6509]

RiRi Can - yeah. My derm told me it would take at least 6-8 months of consistent use for the scars to heal.

[@isabellab6730]

TRETINOIN TIPS IN A GLANCE FROM KZbin AND MY EXPERIENCE. 1. Ease into it. Start with a low dosage. Twice a week to three times to five times to daily. This last stage of applying tretinoin daily should be in your second month. 2. Moisturize before tretinoin if your skin is getting dry and flaky. Definitely Moisturize after. And moisturize well. 3. Sunscreen is the key. Always always always use sunscreen even if you’re planning to stay locked inside. 4. Wash your face with a non drying cleanser. Try washing it with plain water in the morning. And a cleanser only in the evening. I’ve crazy oily skin too but my oil production has actually decreased after this. 5. Don’t use toners. Don’t use scrubs. You can use a washcloth but no other exfoliants. 6. Keep your skincare routine really simple. 7. Don’t wax or do any peeling or facials. Just don’t. Your skin will peel. 8. Don’t pick your skin no matter how tempting. Don’t touch those whiteheads. They’ll go on their own. 9. You can apply makeup. But only if you really really have to. It’s not going to be a smooth application anyway. 10. Also, you’re definitely going to be dealing with purging and dryness. You might deal with this for anywhere between 2 weeks to 3-4 months. Also, the purge might start immediately or after 1-2 months but don’t give up. It’ll pass. 11. Don’t stop tretinoin once you get clear skin. The acne will come back. Trust me, that was my worst mistake. And then you’ll have to start tretinoin again and then there will be another purge and you don’t want that. Reduce the frequency. Use it twice or thrice a week. But keep using it for as long as you want clear skin. 12. Also, you’re not going to be completely clear ever. You might get one or two zits every month. But they’ll be tiny. So don’t worry. 13. The purge can be frustrating. Dryness and redness can be very painful. Looking in the mirror would make you cry. It’ll be bad. You’ll mostly be cursing your skin during the initial months but don’t give up. It does get better. It really does. And you’ll have the skin you’ve always wanted. Sending you all lots of love and good skin for your journey. We’re in this together!!

[@allanchen4102]

How would you wash if your face if the whiteheads are very big? I sometimes wash my face and the white part comes off. How do I prevent this?

[@isabellab6730]

Allan Chen also whenever the white part comes out, take a clean cotton pad and press it around the edges, forming a wall around the whitehead such that it doesn’t spread on other parts of your face. Then lightly press to make everything come out. No nails, just press on the cotton pad. Once it’s out, splash your face with cold water till the area is no longer inflammed

[@RollingDude.]

Just out of curiosity since u seem to have researched a bit about it..do you have any idea what could happen if someone dont use sunscreen? Like worst case scenario, using retinoid everyday and being exposed to a really hot sun

[@isabellab6730]

oni。 please use sunscreen. Or if you’re allergic to sunscreen or have some serious issue with it. Wrap your face in a shawl or do your best not to step in the sun. You could get really red/inflamed/have dark patches in case you don’t . This is because you’ll be getting a lot of new skin with retinoids and this new skin happens to be very sensitive

[@24kbrand0n2]

Ive been on my retin A since November 21 2020 and now on January 9th I have seen drastic improvements I can’t wait to see full results in the future , but I really have to be patient because I’m still purging and have scars everywhere.

[@mahima8518]

What improvements have u seen?

[@jackiemarsh2470]

I am so interested in everything You say it is like my brain is like a sponge, and soaks up every word that is being said. I can not tell you how much you have taught me words are not even enough to tell you and I will always be greatful Thank You

[@DrDrayzday]

thanks!

[@jen_navarro92]

My dermatologist recommended and explained me about a few topical creams that could work for me I chose differin since it’s less irritating now I kinda wish I have chosen Retin a. It sounds miraculously. My acne discoloration/scars drive me nuts

[@et5895]

Never too late. Differin is a fantastic first step. Rather than just going in with Retin A, the differin will definitely help with purging and peeling because you're already "warmed" up. A great transition!

[@juliemann3243]

Dr Dray-thanks again so much. I wish my derm had suggested this years ago--I've had bad brown spots on my face for years. I'm 72 & hope it helps clear these in time.

[@PilotUTA]

I use tretinoin orignally for acne, now for acne maintenance and blackheads, and mostly now for anti-aging. A key when starting tretinoin/ retin-a is to ease into it. Only use a pea sized amount for your whole face and neck. I always mix it with equal amount of anti-redness moisturizer (Cetaphil redness relief). and follow on with another layer of moisturizer as needed. Start by using it once a week, for a couple of weeks (you will peel). Then 2-3 times and eventually step up to every night if you can. I've stopped using it for a week when on vacation abroad, and when i restart I peel. So consistency is key and moisturize!

[@syaibahshaik5056]

thank u a lot for this. im 21 and i’m experiencing acne for the very first time in my life, also ever since my skin barrier got damaged due to over-exfoliation a few mths ago. Currently still on my journey of learning and perfecting my skincare routine. considering about including tretinoin in my skincare too. i rlly want my good skin back.

[@stephaniecolon1254]

I would love to see a video about hormonal acne and how to treat it from the inside out. I’ve found that no topical creams or anything really helps it.

[@DrDrayzday]

:)

[@ZeroNineOverride]

Birth control helped me.

[@et5895]

22:40 THANK You! Nobody has told me that. I asked my derm that and she didn't have an answer.

[@Rottieway]

Thank you for the bit about acne being a medical condition and it does effect social interactions for me. I have cleared my acne with Veltin! I wish I could come to your dermatologist practice, but I live in Dallas.

[@jinish3649]

Is Veltin available for online purchase?

[@carolperara6894]

Hi Doc!!!! Oh if only u were around when I was going through pre teen acne!!! I had a much better dermatologist when in my mid to late 20's!!! He took more time explaining things. WE R SO FORTUNATE TO HAVE YOU!!! I can tell you love your job&are VERY thorough!! Unfortunately like u said one time, it's not the doctors fault, they don't have the time to go through details like you do for us. I thank u so much!!!

[@carolperara6894]

I meant the doctors don't have time in an office visit to explain like u do. U r taking your own personal time to do this and I thank you!! Merry Vlogmas!!

[@beautycharbin6463]

@@carolperara6894 yeah I just found this channel. Thank God. I was about to spend alot more money on stuff.. I started rentin a micro gel over a month ago. I was trying to ask my doctor stuff as she was walking out. She just kept walking. :( I was like hello I have more questions. She didn't even have many people to see. I don't understand why some doctors dont stop and talk. She wrote me retin a micro gel 0.06% , also aczone gel that I dont know when r where to use lol. But after reading alot of comments I'm going go buy the gel I was going to get the cream but it can clog pores, I cant have that.. :) let me know what u have used if u can. I also dont know why mine pills up, I read bc I was using to much but it still does it when I use less...

[@glendanorman781]

I don't have acne since a young teen, but this is all fantastic info for my great niece who is 16 years old. Basic every day skin care is important at every age!

[@DrDrayzday]

Thanks Ms Glenda! Glad you are acne free too :)

[@clairekennedy8767]

Merry Christmas! I've actually stopped going to my Dermatologist thanks to you! I now go every 10 months since my common questions get answered by you!

[@dcdawn]

I am in need of ideas of when, in a skincare routine, to use my Benzamycin gel. I am 65 and have been using Benzamycin and Retin A very successfully for acne for 20 years. Any deviation and I break out.. but I am adding anti-aging serums etc and want to know in what order to use my products. Thank you!!

[@dcdawn]

@Bernadette Barbosa I use (as prescribed by MD) Benzamycin both day and night and Retin A just at night .Any change and the zits return...TY for replying!!! stay safe...btw the dermatologist I have now is just continuing my treatment that my regular md set up years ago and is either too young or uninterested in helping with this question..he is not into skincare like this.

[@SuperKaljo]

So excited for the Q&A for hormonal acne! Thanks Dr. Dray!

[@DrDrayzday]

thanks

[@ShanGooFan]

Ooooh ...... I’m looking forward to the hormonal acne video in a few weeks. I was in FL last week and wore no makeup. The climate & light skincare really helped restore my moisture barrier.

[@DrDrayzday]

:) makeup free is awesome, right??

[@ShanGooFan]

Dr Dray It really is! I also couldn’t get over how great my skin felt with the added humidity. One week and my skin felt like new and all I really used was the Hada Labo Super Plumping Gel Cream & sunscreen. Everything else was too heavy. Here in winter in Michigan my face felt cracked & tight no matter what I used. Now that I’m back it still feels great. It really needed to heal & restore it’s moisture barrier.

[@nafwann]

My acne was well under control with 5 months of retin A micro 0.04% but then I suddenly developed a breakout again. Not sure if it means this strength stopped working and I need to step it up to a higher strength? Or if it’s the moisturiser that is causing me to break out😔

[@Palladio-gu3dj]

It would be so lovely if it were recognized that discoloration, wrinkling, loss of collagen, etc that are a result of aging can make as much an impact on self-confidence as acne does. Insurance companies refuse to pay for tretinoin if you are over 35 which makes the cost outrageous compared to what you pay as a co-pay if you have insurance coverage. And so many people cannot afford to see a dermatologist. This leaves buying from locations outside of the US. It would be great if the medical community would go to bat for those of us with aging skin.

[@DrDrayzday]

insurance "might" cover if for acne...not always the case; people say it is so expensive and .....and while i agree the cost can be prohibitive.....generic tretinoin averages anywhere from $40-70 bucks (check goodrx for your area) out of pocket for a 20g tube of 0.1% (highest percent strength) which is more than enough for two months of once a day application to the face. I see people drop $250 bucks on some useless gimicky intoxicated pachyderm serum ...so i see the logic on behalf of the insurance companies for not covering it for anti-aging

[@Palladio-gu3dj]

Dr Dray I totally agree with you about useless products people buy - one of my pet peeves with KZbinrs and why I love watching you. I also agree that the investment is well worth, it especially as you say, comparing the price of something that is proven to work against all the hooey products. However, it is not up to insurance companies to monitor what people purchase as a factor for whether or not a prescription will be covered. With GoodRX the discount can change based on the demand(from GoodRX) so it is hard to tie down a price. There are so many people who either do not have medical insurance coverage or have such a high deductable that it is not feasible to pay out of pocket for a specialist.

[@DrDrayzday]

while i am with you on the frustration against the insurance companies....the larger scale problem that patients, physicians, and insurance companies are faced with is the rising and uncapped cost of prescription drugs in this country; a round of life saving chemotherapy can cause 30, 000 easily, not to mention the newer targeted cancer therapies, costing upwards of one million per year per patient....this drugs are very important advances in science and medicine....the cost however is not something we have any control over...i see where insurance companies have to draw the line somewhere

[@Palladio-gu3dj]

Dr Dray I am with you on cancer treatment. Been there done that. I am fortunate that I had treatment at an excellent cancer treatment center in my area and good insurance at the time but it has taken years to pay off all the uncovered charges. I find it unbearable that patients and doctors are at the mercy of the pharmaceutical and insurance agencies. I can only imagine how frustrating it must be for a doctor to know that treatments are there but may not be available to all. That would be heartbreaking. I am so lucky to have a wonderful dermatologist and that I can afford to visit her. I would wish that for everyone. This is one of the reasons I so value your channel! You are reaching people who may not have other resources. Absolutely wonderful! Cheers to you Dr Dray!

[@DrDrayzday]

I am grateful every day you beat your cancer and are here in the sunscreen club Ms Virginia :)

[@sierrablanco5672]

I've been using it for almost 3 months and I feel like I'm going through a purge still ugh

[@alishadhs4]

Sierra Blanco I’m at 3 months (2 months of daily use) and I am definitely having an increase in acne

[@HeyNowMal]

Sierra Blanco works differently for different people. I kept getting acne after MONTHS and my skin was so dry and would peel like crazy. I ended up getting a prescription for Clindamycin gel and it got rid of my acne after a week. I saw a considerable difference after like 2 days. But different things work for different people.

[@melipatimasang]

Okay y'all I'm on month 6 of what I thought what going to be a two week purge. It's going to take a WHILE for some people-- for myself, I notice the general texture of my skin has improved, and I no longer get cystic acne, I have had forehead acne for my whole purge, which I haven't had since middle school, but now in month 6 it's finally clearing up. This is a long term solution!!!

[@danniicortez7978]

When I first got prescribed retin a, I saw a difference within a month. My doctor was so impressed as well. So yeah depends on the person

[@rainbowbubbleful]

My son who is 17 was on retin A micro for 9 months and breakouts got so bad and just got a little better after after month 7 but still had acne . He didn’t have that many pimples before use . I told him to start it for anti-aging and his chin was breaking out a little . I use it daily and it made my wrinkles better . I’m 47. He never had dryness . He was On .04% breakouts were .mainly on cheeks and chin . I just felt aweful for him and basically I wouldn’t let him stop hoping for a clearer complexion. I gave up on just using Retin A after 9 months and dad put him on Benzaclin he’s a doctor and that stuff works miracles his acne just started clearing up . That kid still has no dry skin or peeling never has not even once had dryness He’s full of grease . He washes his face with Cetephil for oily skin which says it removes 99 % of oil in the morning puts on his benzaclin . Then washes his face with it again at night and uses retin A .04. At night . The scars on his cheeks are clearing up and fading after 5 days with both these meds . We had to do both of these meds just Using retin A kept breaking his face out after 10 months and it hardly got better and before Retin A he didn’t have that many pimples . If you are like us try the Benzaclin 2 minutes ago

[@amyherrick6772]

Thank you 🙏🏻 so much for this video! I go to a dermatology clinic for my adult onset cystic acne which is quite bad on my face, back and shoulders. I don’t feel they take me seriously, but it’s the only place that takes my insurance:( However I am SO grateful for your videos as now I feel so much more informed. I’m on tretenoin .05% (PM) and cyndamyacine + benzoyl peroxide (AM). I had to no idea about what to do about moisturizing or how I shouldn’t keep my face wet with the tretenoin. I mean they didn’t explain anything. And on top of it, almost all my current washes (fancy and for sensitive skin) and really beautiful facial creams all have reacted horribly on my skin and gave me a red face and terrible skin shedding. Previously I never had a reaction to fragrance or any high end products. Thanks to you, I went out to CVS and now have a good regimen that compliments the tretenoin. Also- I didn’t know about the potential for an abundance of acne at the beginning!! Thank you for telling me this was normal- I thought it just wasn’t working. Thank you! I am now addicted to your videos- I love your healthy lifestyle and tips! I wish you were my dermatologist! You are so knowledgeable!

[@DrDrayzday]

thank you so much Ms Amy and I am so happy to hear my videos have helped you navigate the retin A journey :)

[@adtiashok6509]

And I forgot to thank you for this lovely video.. I sincerely hope you hit 50k by new years!! You deserve so much more recognition doc..

[@DrDrayzday]

Thanks so much!

[@JenniferMyers]

Always excellent! Your channel is my favorite.

[@DrDrayzday]

thanks so much Ms Jennifer!! hope you and your family are having a nice december :)

[@Bakerbell]

Do you think tretinoin can flatten some of my shallow acne scars on my cheeks?

[@coffeelover4642]

If your skin is very clog prone, would highly recommend avoiding the cream.. i use the gel.

[@meenakhan5822]

Rafa Fan did you use tretnion? How did it work for you?

[@MA-zg2pz]

Can you request the gel when refilling the prescription?

[@UffieLove1]

100%

[@honeybadgernasty]

@@UffieLove1 Is your Retin-A similar to a hand sanitizer consistency?

[@honeybadgernasty]

Can you share what moisturizer you found compatible with the gel?

[@fransinia.4675]

Thank you so much for this video, extremely helpful as a woman of color as I just started my Retin-A micro journey after developing a reaction to Adapalene. Also the end of the video and how my benzoyl peroxide wash interacted with Retin-A and I had to switch quick

[@HeyNowMal]

Retin-a didn’t help me with acne. It made my skin dry and peel-y. But I still kept getting acne. What ended up helping my acne was Clindamycin gel.

[@sarahstroud6021]

Could you do a q and a on acne in pre teens? It would be so helpful to have tips because my son is dealing with acne and he is only 10! It’s so frustrating because I don’t want to have to take him to a dermatologist so young but his skin is getting bad and it breaks my heart!!You are so informative and helpful and I trust what you say!

[@DrDrayzday]

he should see a dermatologist for evaluation and management...acne is a disease and scars...i elaborated on this in my teen skin care video

[@dunyajoshi1525]

Hi I am using tretinoin 0.05% to clear my acne as my doctor has prescribed and I have been using it for a month and a half.. but still my acne is coming n going like crazy n Im not sure if it really is working. what is the safe side of continuing or dis- continueing this product.

[@alexandermiller5919]

Hi there! I was wondering if it's common to still get pimples while using tretinoin 0.1% AND benzoyl peroxide. Is this maybe the case because I have cystic (moderate/severe) acne? I've been trying to wash sheets more and not touch my face but I'm wondering if a few pimples while on tretinoin are always going to be inevitable. Thank you!

[@alexanderiaheld6522]

Don’t use both because it cancels out. Just use tret

[@elizalupi7316]

Why would retionids cause a purge of acne? I've read that if an acne medication works it works from the begining and there's no such thing as purging, only too strong of a product can cause irritation and that might make acne more severe. Do you know of any studies about the acne purging?

[@AlyssaNN]

Hi dr. Dray. I’ve been treating my acne for over 4 years now. I’ve been prescribed 0.1% tretinoin cream and 7.5% aczone (during the day) and I’ve been using this regimen for at least 1 and 1/2 to 2 years (I can’t even remember) while on Birth Control and my skin still has breakouts. While my acne has been under control compared to before I’m still very unsatisfied with the quality of my skin. I still have about 5-7 pimples on my face at a time and they tend to be quite inflamed. Accutane is something I’m not considering at the moment either. I can’t seem to figure it the subtype of my acne at all :/ my breakouts are randomly all over my face. I don’t even know where to go next to try to help my condition.

[@jumaynak4482]

same here

[@michachalikesyou]

So glad to have found this page. It’s been such a waste of time to listen to acne advice or skincare advice from people that can’t even explain to you why they’re taking what they’re taking or people who don’t use sunscreen and sunbathe trying to give me advice on dark marks...i wish my derm would give me half the explanation you do in these videos.

[@DrDrayzday]

thanks for watching

[@sc00b3rt]

My brother lives in a us territory. He can get retin a for 15 bucks without a prescription. Differin is 12 bucks at my local grocery store. Why is retin a so expensive and why the prescription in the states ?

[@DrDrayzday]

yep

[@naziagulzar2502]

Hello I am here in Uk and I requested my dermatologist to prescribe me Tretinoin but instead he gave me Differn and said it is a form of Tretinoin. As you advise that it’s different to Tretinoin used to reduce wrinkles and fine line. Please can you suggest another form of Tretinoin available in Uk . Thanks Nazia

[@LindoDios]

Very informative video. I have used it for almost ten years now. Interested situation with me is that I have extremely oily skin, and retin-a didn’t help with that. However it cleared my skin almost completely, I’m using it along with an antibiotic cream.

[@DrDrayzday]

glad to hear it helped!

[@MrsLanaHall]

Just left my dermatologist with Tretinoin prescription and a ton of questions. Your blog was very helpful and informative. Thank you very much! I only wish I found your channel earlier int he day, so I won't be binge watching your videos all night now )

[@DrDrayzday]

glad it was helpful!

[@hibamohammed8048]

If my acne cleared up with 0.05% tretinoin, do you recommend switching to a 0.025% to reduce dryness and irritation?

[@gabriellanoelle1606]

I'm thinking of the same thing! I think it would work so I might try it out. How were your results Hiba? Thank you!

[@alicole2754]

@@gabriellanoelle1606 hello ! No matter what percentage, it will still work. The higher percentage just means it will work faster (not better) but can be more irritating. So yes, switching to a lower percentage would help with dryness and irritation! Same results for both percentages!

[@kisabel028]

I’ve watched all your retinol videos and acne/PIH videos and I want to say THANK YOU 🙏🏽. I went to a derm yesterday and this was the first time I’ve gone and I knew what questions to ask, products out there to ask about, percentages, etc. And I’ve started applying and re-applying sunscreen religiously everyday! Also bought a sunscreen based on your recs. You are the best Dr.Dray!

[@selvianael351]

What's sunscreeen u use? The brand

[@kisabel028]

Selviana El Dr.Dray has a video on sunscreens for different skin types, I recommend watching that! I’m currently using the Elta MD, the color is a little light for me, but the formula is good. I’ve also tried the MD Solar sciences, the color was good, but didn’t like the formula to much. I have a Fitzpatrick type 4 skin.

[@janeburke147]

Hi Andrea I love how ya put amazon UK too,also hormonal acne is a great subject that so common although we never talked about this subject years ago,it’s good to talk xxxx

[@DrDrayzday]

:)

[@rinareynolds3284]

Thank you Dr Dray! Could you also go over the Tretinoin purging phase please? A lot of us moderate hormonal break out folks after starting tretinoin get extreme break outs like never before, as well as redness and even oiliness. This process is scary and discouraging and lasts for weeks or months! So is purging always a good sign? Or could it be a reaction to tretinoin? Thank you very much !!!!

[@MA-zg2pz]

Kat Lit what’s your other regiment like? Are you using other products with this?

[@proQuran]

Kat Lit did your Tretinoin purge get better? I’m currently undergoing a serious case of purge with new breakouts everyday on both sides of my cheeks. I want to quit tretinoin because I’ve been going through the purge for 3 months now, but it’s not getting better.

[@takiwithlove347]

I have been using differin gel for two years and it has Been amazing but when I started using acretin aka rétin A I started breaking out so I stopped then came back using it again then broke out again!

[@Sasha_xo]

prqurn are you using the cream or the gel? The cream was horrible for me I never stopped purging but with the gel it has been amazing and my acne and dark spots cleared up :)

[@laceygraham2728]

I was on tretionoin .05 for 6 years. It controlled my acne fine but constantly needing to see a dermatologist just for refills was a pain for me while I’ve been away at college at least. I’ve switched to differin now that I can get it over the counter and so far so good! Eventually I’ll probably get back on tretinoin once it’s easier to travel to my dermatologist.

[@DrDrayzday]

that is a pain fo rsure, glad to hear differin has been a good option

[@kelseyg4103]

Will you make a video on what your favorite acne treatment is? What steps you think someone with acne should do?

[@nia.petrova]

When she says “description box” all I can hear is “prescription box” 🤣🤣🤣

[@jesskarose2446]

I never want to stop using retin a even if my acne stops. In particular for the other benefits. I’m scared for the day my acne calms down and my doctor may not prescribe it any longer.

[@soulkiss1013]

I think you can buy it on amazon, prescription free.

[@jhanvi3019]

Buy it from AllDayChemist

[@popgas3821]

My Dermatologist actually prescribed me with a Mandelic Malic Acid with a 0.05% Tretinoin and I'm able to tolerate it, like not "able" as equals to "endure", because I didn't feel any irritation. So it is a good insight that Dr. Dray is saying acids like Glycolic, Lactic, Mandelic, Salisylic and the like "may" or "can" compromise the efficacy of Tretinoin because of irritation. But I guess that is the reason why my Dermatologist had my Mandelic and Tretinin applied alternately because my toner is a Glycolic acid one, so you know Glycolic + Mandelic + Tretinoin might be a deadly combo, so I'm not risking using the three altogether in one day, lol, curious but I'm scared.

[@UffieLove1]

My derm prescribed me tretinoin 0,025 to eliminate micro warts that I hat on my cheeks, I started noticing that my pores were getting smaller and when I went to th dermatologist again he told me that yes and also explained that it had an effect on pimples

[@amarilyscortes216]

But generally; if using differin every other day , can I apply Ambin ? Maybe on the days that and I will not be using differin.... my skin is very resistant. I don’t get irritated.

[@WalkByBeauty]

Thank you for this video.. I have a QUESTION. I have been told that I shouldn’t use tretinoin because I have hormonal acne and it will make it worse if I use it. That it will cause inflamed acne to get worse.... I’m struggling with getting rid of my acne!! What are your thoughts?

[@montanabonds8409]

tretinoin has been one of the best things ive used for my acne, so has spirnolactone and aveeno ultra calming products! it has been the ONLY things that has cleared up my skin and made it stay away.

[@darshana5395]

Did you experience 'the Purge'?

[@Kayyvr]

That’s good to hear! Im on Spironolactone now, just started it about a week ago and I was also prescribed tretinoin and clindamycin. How long until you started to see results? And what is your dosage of spiro and percentage of your tretinoin?

[@ashleywyatt7114]

@@Kayyvr how is the spiro going now?

[@Kayyvr]

Ashley Wyatt it’s been great! My skin is so clear now, the clearest my skin has ever been. I stopped using the Clindamycin and only take one 25mg pill of spiro in the day and Tretinoin at night. Highly recommend if you are contemplating going on it

[@ashleywyatt7114]

@@Kayyvr I know my acne is hormonal but my derm prescribed me antibiotics but I don't want to take them. I was thinking to call or schedule another apt to talk to her about starting the spiro. How long have you been taking it? How long did your derm say you'd have to take it?

[@akavella]

Can you use clindamycin-benzoyl peroxide cream in the am and retin-a at night? and Proactive face wash day and night?

[@DrDrayzday]

yes

[@purposepursuit7934]

Been trawling through videos for hours to find the answer to this exact question - you’re a god send ❤️ thanks so much

[@pubgsavvy9774]

I have a doubt. Please consider my doubt.Can I apply tretinoin and then salicylic gel at night? I mean can I use these two not by mixing them together but one after another at nights......?

[@UffieLove1]

*BILLIE* *FAN* ask your dermatologist. But if I were you I wouldn’t. You will see that tretinoin makes you extrémalo irritated... at the beginning I stopped all my strong face products

[@jesahmonterde2022]

Can tretinoin cream be used at night while having the house lights on? Will it slow its effects or will it burn my face??? I know this sounds ridiculous but I can't sleep with the lights off.😔

[@Chicabella66]

Awesome info!! Thanks Dr. Dray you are so informative and explain using Retin A in such a clear and precise manner totally love your channel.

[@DrDrayzday]

Thanks!

[@nathashawong2336]

Dr Dray, would it be advisable to use Tretinoin alongside adapalene? Sorry I'm only asking this a year after your video was posted and I hope it's not too late!

[@monicabagonamarkande]

Hi Dr. Dray. Is it true that tretinoin can make pores look bigger at first? This happens to me everytime I use Retin A. Been using it for both acne and anti-aging. My pores is almost not visible prior to using it but once I started it, I would notice this happening. I researched about it and I saw that this pore enlargement thing also happens to many Retin A users. What’s your opinion on this. Thank you much.

[@DrDrayzday]

when the stratum corneum starts to exfoliate, yes the pores appear larger because the stuff previously covering them up is coming off

[@monicabagonamarkande]

Dr Dray thank you Dr. Dray. So this means it is just a temporary thing right?

[@britnysnyder4991]

Yes i thought i was going crazy cuz my pores were looking huge I didn't know this was an effect of it I thought it was all in my head lol

[@katiesemm2202]

I had terrible acne back when I was 16 and the dermatolgist prescribed me tretionin and I LOVED IT after a few of using it of course, my acne did get worse before it got better but the results was amazing! now IM 28 and I believe I have the skin condion called Keratosis Pillaris! Would the tretonion gel clear that up? and how much does it cost out of pocket?

[@DrDrayzday]

See my KP Q&A kzbin.info/www/bejne/rqK8i6xsbK6nm7M

[@aliayasmin3156]

Hi do you use it before moisturizer or after moisturizer ???

[@juliebarnes7425]

Ok questions answered. Thanks so much. Very well done!! Bravo! I prefer the cream tretinoin. I like the highest strength and enjoy the peel bc the skin underneath after exfoliation is beautiful. I'm very lucky. Tonight I'm burning a Melon candle and it's delicious!

[@DrDrayzday]

I think the cream is easier to hack than the gel

[@dulapeep5609]

kinda wonder if ur skin already getting used with tretinoin, can u also use exfoliate product?? Maybe only at morning cause when it comes to night is a time to use the tretinoin orr giving a day break like theres a day that u use tretinoin alone and also theres day that using exfoliate toner alone??? Thanks for the answer

[@1drearias]

can you make a video on what lasers/facials are best for acne and or sun spots/discoloration!?

[@DrDrayzday]

i discuss this in several Q&As....it depends on A) the individual, B) their skin color, C) the subtype of acne or the nature of the discoloration

[@marys9885]

Happy Holidays....Question. I am a 60 yr old woman using Retin A but not able to apply to my sensitive neck. Could you please recommend a product for my 🦃 Neck! Thank you Dr

[@DrDrayzday]

sunscreeen, period

[@marys9885]

Thank you....gravity wins

[@s0phi76]

I was put on clindamycin and tretinoin for hormonal acne (i'm 17) I was told to put moisturizer on before tretinoin, so my skincare routine has been washing with a neutrogena gentle facial cleanser in the morning, then using clindamycin, and then using the neutrogena hydroboost moisturizer, and then the neutrogena clear skin sunscreen, and then at night, I wash with the same cleanser, I moisturize with the same hydroboost moisturizer, I wait 20-30 minutes, and then I put on the tretinoin. What are your thoughts on the routine? Because i've heard tretinoin is often used incorrectly, and i've just been hoping I haven't been using it incorrectly because my skin is SO dry and i've been breaking out with cystic acne and it feels hopeless rn haha

[@phippsey3]

Pretty much the exact same routine I do! I would love to know if this is ok to do.

[@kamw.1026]

Try cerve moisturizing cream to moisturize and alternate days you use the clindamycin and the tretinoin.

[@adtiashok6509]

I'm so sorry to be bugging you with so many questions doc.. But I have a doubt. Why do some pimples hurt a lot, while some don't hurt? Are the hurting ones deeper lesions and cause scars? Thanks..

[@DrDrayzday]

inflammation is painful....depth and degree of inflammation correlates with scarring risk

[@adtiashok6509]

Dr Dray - thank you doc. Happy holidays! I hope you get a few holidays..

[@castitatis3976]

Thanks doc! Love ur channel! I have very acne prone skin, lots of clogged pores. I tried differin and 0.05 retin a, however, no peeling happened at all. I mean AT ALL, my skin just soaked both products with no signs of irritation, acne and wrinkles did not improve at all. I have been using both products for 6months and had 0 peeling. Is there sthng wrong with my skin?

[@mersaursula]

jean foster i’m not sure if your skin needs to peel, you may have just gotten lucky! Maybe you need to use more product? :)

[@castitatis3976]

@@mersaursula thanks for reply! Idk really. Once I slathered retin a on my face like a mask and nothing happened still.

[@mersaursula]

jean foster maybe you can try a higher percentage (.1) or try using it more often every week. Like every other night or every night, just change up your schedule in any way

[@rikivip]

@@castitatis3976 daily?

[@castitatis3976]

@@rikivip yep daily

[@andrewmontoya4473]

I see that you didn’t mention cerave facial foam cleanser. Is it not good for people that have acne?

[@DrDrayzday]

no, it is great too....i can only list so many characters worth of face washes

[@ambermoses6291]

I live in Las Vegas Nevada, it will be very hot in a few months. Is now a bad time to start retin a? Should I start in the fall instead?

[@hikki94]

Can you do a viseo on aczone? I’ve been prescribed this as a topical cream, but i have no idea what it does or how it works.. love your videos!

[@DrDrayzday]

it is a good medication

[@Neellohit]

Is the isopropyl myristate in the Tretinoin creams pore-clogging? Some people find the cream version broke them out while the gel version did not.

[@Christinaejohnson]

What brand retin a do you You recommend. My doctor offers obagi but there is also Rory, and other internet brands?

[@Vfd270]

Hello Dr. Dray! What can I do for extremely dry skin (constantly white and flakey all over, all day). I’m successfully using Epiduo for acne but the dry skin (I’ve skipped days between usage and always pre moisturize w Cerave). What else can I do besides reapplying the Cerave 10+ times per day?? Please, please help. I love that I no longer have acne, but now I’m dry and flakey all day ( been using it for 3 months now).

[@GlydeJ11]

Hello Dr. Dray I’m new to the channel I’m 54 years old I had a incredibly serious about with cystic acne at 37 and I am scarred Severely. I did do the Accutane which finally dried me up enough to where I don’t have any new breakouts until recently and my skin started breaking out nowhere near as bad as it did the first time but I’ve talk to my dermatologist about going back on the Accutane one more round and she agreed. My question to you is what is the best way to use the tretinoin and the moisturizer to keep it from getting so red and irritated because my skin is already red I work outside and I try to wear a hat and sunscreen butI have a red face anyway so when I use the tretinoin it seems to make it almost unbearable and I I go to that dark place that I was back when the first breakout started happening with the cystic acne it was just horrible. Could you please just tell me can I use the moisturizer along with the Retin-A and every night or every other night I just need a plan and I love your channel and if any of the other subscribers have any suggestions I’d be more than grateful to hear any of them. Thank you so much for the content and I hope everyone stays safe God bless.

[@melissamckim1682]

I use Tretinoin 0.1% and my dermatologist also prescribed me minocycline on a needs basis because I am not a fan of oral medication, I have a bit of anxiety. However, I'm 39 and insurance won't cover my prescription...I guess I'm too old for acne in their eyes :( . Anyway, is there a way to get insurance to assist in the cost? Thank you so much for the wealth of knowledge you give us on this channel!

[@cherylleeann]

Melissa McKim reliablerx.com

[@sheenashah2111]

I've been using Differin for the last year for hormonal acne and it has helped a lot in conjunction with glycolic acid on alternating nights. However, I'm thinking about switching over to Retin-A. If I do this, can I expect another purge?

[@ernesta2578]

I wish you were my dermatologist I have healed my skin more from watching your videos then I ever have from consiltations from multiple dermatologist and especially physicians.

[@ej_l2525]

Is tretinoin more safe alternative than Isotretinoin (accutane)? Im thinking of getting an accutane and i thought since Iso is Vitamin A derivative..why not opt for tretinoin which is in cream form and more safer.

[@faymorgane5454]

Accutane affects all the system with bad side effect like joints pain, birth defect, etc. Topical tretinoine (Retin-a) is safer. No doubt.

[@lalablotz7348]

Thanks again for another amazing video. Hope your Christmas was merry 🎄I have a question. Are there people who's skin just can't tolerate even the lowest strength retinA even after months of slow careful use?

[@maricelagonzalez9125]

Ive been on .025 tret. cream along with benzoyl peroxide (day time) and clindamycin for a while now (on and off over the past few years). Would upping my dose to .05 allow me to eliminate the need of benzoyl peroxide? I feel having that extra step is tedious and I'm tired of it discoloring/bleaching my clothes.

[@XXlrayss]

how has those treatments been workng for you? Recently been prescribed those medications from my doctor!

[@duamohammed5681]

Hello Dr.dray I am your new subscriber......I live in saudi Arabia......i found your channel and watched this video you gave a wonderful explanation on ratino -a ........you're a wonderful person .......i love all your videos ...i never miss any of them......i am your big fan.......😘😘 I have a question- I am aged of 31....from last 17years I'm battelling acne valgiras...and I am depressed and hopeless...I used every thing including doxycycline 100mg twice a day for 3 months but It did not give any result ....my last hope is Ratino A..0.5%..i am using it from 3 and a half months .......still break outs are there....but yet i am with patience and hope that it will work out.....i got my harmonal chekh up and everything is okay i have thyroid problems....because of that i feel weak and tired....so my doctor prescribed multivitamin CENTRUM and also a vitamin D tablets ...but my dermatologist told me not consume vitamin a and vitamin d ..while using Ratino a.....is it true ??? Anyways in multivitamins there are all vitamins A-Z can I take multivitamin and vitamin d also while using Ratino a cream? I will be grateful for your help...this is my humble request please reply....I am waiting curiously for your reply ... Thanks DR.Dray 😘😘😘

[@goldennuggets75]

Very informative video and channel, would be great to see a video on the effectiveness of the various silicone gels for scars.

[@kathyharvey6054]

My teenage daughter has been diagnosed with dermatagraphism. Can you recommend products that would be good for her to treat acne but that will not irritate her skin? Thanks!

[@DrDrayzday]

discuss with the treating dermatologist

[@leftblank6036]

could i ask my doctor for a prescription of Tretinoin if i just have scars?

[@AminahK21451]

Some people have commented that retin a has made their acne scars look worse or has caused acne scars, is this actually possible?

[@DrDrayzday]

not exactly, no...it can cause excessive irritation that can leads to postinflammatory hyperpigmentation, but not a true scar

[@kennedyworrix8172]

Hey!! I am currently using tazarotene and taking spironolactone! I had awful acne. A mix of both cystic and topical acne that plagued me since i got my period when i was 9. I am now 22 and finally have my skin under control, after using tazarotene for about two years and the oral medication for about a year. Found out no matter how much water i drank, i was still high testosterone! Now I’m mostly dealing with drier skin and my favorite moisturizer is DML Forte - recommendation from my derm. Have you heard of this? Is this good to use for my skin? It’s the only relief I’ve got from the dry skin.

[@00elenigreece]

I started using tretinoin every 4 days. The 5th time I used it, I started breaking out in my jaw line and it took me two weeks for the pimples to disappear. I started using it again and it happened the same, I have a severe break out on my chin area. Should I stop using it? These pimples hurt and are huge... I use tretinoin 0.05%.

[@RebeccaCoup86]

Hi Dr. Dray, I have a retina a cream that is prescribed to me but I haven't used it in a while. It was prescribed because I have acne on my face my neck my back... It kinda scares me not going to lie....i dont know what cleaners or moisturizers you can't mix with it. I use panoxyl gel for acne face cleaner I also have say yes to cucumber moisturizer and I also use the Garnier Moisture Rescue am I able to use those moisturizers with the Retin-A cream prescription? And also would I be able to use the Retin-A cream with the new Neutrogena hyaluronic acid moisture boost gel?