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HOW
DOES RETIN-A WORK?
Evidence suggests that RETIN-A acts primarily by modifying
the abnormal keratinization (formation of the superficial
layer of skin) located around hair follicles. Comedones
(large deep seeded pus filled pimples) form in follicles
with an excess of keratinized superficial skin cells.
RETIN-A promotes the detachment of these excess cells
and the enhanced shedding of these cells from the follicular
base. Through this action, comedo contents are emptied
and the formation of new comedones is significantly
reduced.
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HOW
TO USE THIS MEDICATION:
Apply a thin layer to affected areas at bedtime. Use
a gauze pad or cotton swab to apply the liquid. Wash
your hands immediately after use. Using this medication
more frequently or in excessive amounts does not improve
the results, but may increase side effects. Avoid applying
near the eyes, mouth, or open cuts since this medication
can irritate sensitive skin. Acne may appear to worsen
when the medication is first used; continue therapy.
It may take three to six weeks before the full benefits
of this medication are seen.
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HOW
EFFECTIVE IS RETIN-A?
In a number of different clinical studies RETIN-A was
significantly superior to a control gel in decreasing
comedo count. Taken together approximately 25% of patients
achieved superior results with the use of this medication.
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RETIN-A
AND ROGAINE?
Yes, when applied topically to the scalp RETIN-A can
induce hair regrowth and significantly augment the activity
of ROGAINE.
It is postulated that this effect is due to increased
absorption of ROGAINE through the scalp by an alteration
of the stratum corneum (superficial layer) barrier.
One study demonstrated that 0.05% RETIN-A tripled the
absorption of ROGAINE locally over effected areas, when
compared with a control drug.
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CAN
I USE COSMETICS IF I AM ALSO USING RETIN-A?
Cosmetics may be used, but clean skin thoroughly before
applying RETIN-A.
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USE
DURING PREGNANCY:
RETIN-A is applied to the skin. Usually, less than 10%
of RETIN-A passes into the mother's bloodstream, and
even less reaches the baby. Broken skin, using more
than is needed on an area, or use on a large area will
cause more of the RETIN-A to pass through the skin.
In general, the less RETIN-A that is used on the mother's
skin, the less likely there will be risks to the baby.
Several studies have tried to find out the effects of
RETIN-A on pregnancy. These studies have not found that
babies whose mothers used RETIN-A during pregnancy are
any more likely to have birth defects than babies whose
mothers did not use RETIN-A.
Nonetheless, it may be best to reserve RETIN-A use during
pregnancy for only the most severe cases of Acne Vulgaris.
Even then, it should be used with extreme caution.
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SIDE
EFFECTS:
Immediately after applying, the skin may feel warm or
mild stinging or redness may occur. Some peeling of
the skin may occur. These effects should subside as
your skin adjusts to the medication. If they persist
or become bothersome, stop the medication. This medicine
may also increase sun sensitivity. RETIN-A may also
cause itchiness and scaling of the skin. This can sometimes
be very extreme depending on the individual. Most people
will experience some itching or scaling if too much
RETIN-A is applied.
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CAUTIONS:
This medication can increase sensitivity to sunlight,
wind and cold. Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun and
sunlamps. Wear protective clothing and use an effective
sunscreen. This medication should be used during pregnancy
only if clearly needed. It is not known if RETIN-A appears
in breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Use mild soap when washing your face. Do not wash face
excessively. Abrasive soaps, cleansers, medicated creams
or lotions can increase skin irritation. Use other acne
preparations with caution while using RETIN-A.
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