What 15 Years Of Retin-A (Tretinoin) Did To My Face

I want to address the comments asking if I've had Botox, fillers, etc. so people can have the truth. I've never gotten anything done to my face. I don't judge anybody if that's the route they choose, but I chose to use topical treatment because I want to be in control of my own face and, also, it's not desirable to me to inject my face with stuff. I like my face the way it is. As for my lack of facial expression, I'm still getting used to filming myself, so that's a part of it. And being an extreme introvert, coupled with my reserved nature, and the fact that in my day to day life I'm teaching meditation & yoga, as well as providing hospice care (these are my occupations), my face looks the way it looks. What I'm trying to say is that we wear our lives on our faces. Everyone does. And I've never been a bubbly, over-animated person, so it would come across extremely artificial if I faked a persona that isn't who I am. Additionally, tretinoin imparts a "pulling" (tightening/firming) effect on the skin, which, is both good and bad. Yes, it makes the complexion appear flawless, but there are definite downsides. I can't open my mouth too widely, or I start to peel immediately, for example. The skin, before it peels (mine peels every day), becomes very tight, and taut, and tightly pulled skin looks ultra smooth and shiny, and then it sort of "cracks" (mine does anyway), starts to flake, and then peels away. New fresh skin is then revealed. This is the mechanism of Retin-A. Ultimately, I take it as a compliment and a testament to the power of this product, if people simply "can't believe" I've achieved my skin with the use of topical cream alone. That people believe me or don't believe me doesn't change the truth, and beyond what I've said here, I can't do much else. It's not my concern to convince anyone of anything. But I did want to address this, since I see numerous comments asking, speculating, and accusing me of not being honest. I have no problem being clear and upfront. This is who I am. I must add, too, for those who have asked tactfully – thank you, by the way. Happy holidays everyone.

Retin a is really only for short term use for spots and scars. You shouldn’t be using this long term for anti-aging, as it really thins the skin and is far too abrasive for long term use.

You can get it online for a lot cheaper. Even without a prescription.

What's a good alternative to retin a?

Hi there.. Did you feature in a Ponds ad?? ☺

what % do you recommend for daily use?

I am 20, and i started my retin a journey from today!!

Does anyone know if she has avoided sun/applied sunscreen exposure her whole life?

I use it on top of moisture and it works great!!! I live in Canada and it can get pretty cold in the winter and used it right through. You can also use it every other day to not dry your skin out and avoid the cracking and peeling and redness.

I'm 21 , can. I start using this I have pores and huge undereye bags .???

Hi, how often were you using retin A to see first results at 16 weeks?

Hi jennifer! I hope you are doing better now.
I have started using Retin A from 6th of May.
Till now I am only noticing side effects.
My forehead is full of tiny pimples.
My jaw line cheeks have dark red pimples without heads.
Also my skin is not dry, it is kind of wierd its red my complexion has become uneven, I have the most irritated skin ever in my life.
Based on your experience would you please suggest me should I proceed with the treatment as I really want to continue with this however, at the same time I am afraid that it may make my skin worse ? I am 25 years old.
If possible please make a detailed video on your journey how it went.

Do you use Retin-A around your eyes?

Hey Jennifer just wondering why you started at 22? I'm around that age but thought I'd wait until my 30s to start RetinA

Wow, your skin looks so amazing

Definitely!! #1 thing. Do NOT sleep with makeup on! Especially if you have oily skin! It’s not worth it! Your pores will gape open once you hit your late 20s. 😭 Beautiful skin is a blessing. But must also be maintained! Don’t just count on good genetics.

Wow you are an inspiration! I am a 46 year old man and I had a consult about Retin-A and I wonder if you think shaving would further irritate my skin to the point that I may not want to use it?

I put an oil from Palmer’s Cocoa Butter, it has Vitamin E & C as well. I don’t put it around the eyes or the creases of my nose (where it seems to do the most damage) because I can’t handle the burning & if it burns and makes your skin red I just don’t think that is healthy. Also, the directions on the bottle says not to. To prevent the dangers of harmful sun impacts while using a retinal product I use it only at night, so I have a subtle effectiveness and give my face a break from retinal during the day. At night while I’m sleeping the retinal is hard at work. I still wear sunscreen if I’m going to spend an hour outside, but don’t feel I have to everyday since I don’t put it on twice a day or in the morning. Also, be ware of use of retinal and then an exfoliant. I exfoliant twice a week & use the oil at night everyday. Another anti aging tip: I try to sleep on my back. This draws the skin to the back of your head and over time your skin will remain taught. If you sleep on your side or tummy you are creasing your skin over time. I agree with her that retinal is amazing, but for those that can’t afford or doesn’t want to deal with harsh side effects, I hope this helps.

Hi , does it need a prescription or its available over counter? Is 0.05 safe formula for beginners to use because I have terrible acne on my face. Please reply Also please share the link where you purchase Retin A I couldn't find any in my local pharmacies

I think her secret to looking young is her expressionless face. It’s hard but it works! I have a line in my forehead because I raise my eyebrows all the time.

Hi how was your experience with retin A during pregnancy

Wow, with insurance I only pay 15 dollars per tube.