Yes, you are absolutely right. Tretinoin is a highly effective medication for treating acne, especially non-inflammatory comedonal acne, which includes whiteheads and blackheads. It is considered one of the cornerstone treatments for acne and has been used for many years with proven benefits.
The mechanism of action of tretinoin in treating acne involves several important effects on the skin:
Reducing acne formation: Tretinoin helps to decrease the formation of new acne lesions by preventing the clogging of hair follicles with dead skin cells and sebum (natural oil produced by the skin).
Unclogging pores: Tretinoin promotes the shedding of retinoin Gel 0.1% dead skin cells and exfoliates the skin. This helps to open up clogged pores, which are a common contributing factor to the development of whiteheads and blackheads.
Promoting skin cell turnover: By increasing the turnover rate of skin cells, tretinoin encourages the growth of new, healthy skin cells. This process can lead to the improvement of overall skin texture and the reduction of acne scars over time.
It’s important to note that tretinoin is not a quick fix for acne, and significant results may take several weeks to become noticeable. Consistent and patient use is essential to achieve the best outcomes. Additionally, some individuals may experience an initial worsening of acne or increased redness and peeling during the first few weeks of treatment, which is often referred to as the “retinization” phase. However, this phase tends to subside as the skin adapts to the medication.
