Why We Should All Use Tretinoin

Unless you live in a cave the sun’s UV rays are going to damage your skin.  These UV rays damage skin cell proteins, internal structures and even the DNA.

Now, our bodies are pretty smart, so many of these cells are lost as we shed skin and our immune system takes care of most of the rest.  But unfortunately some of these damaged cell survive and lead to:  variable skin thickness, collections of degraded collagen and elastic fibers, less mature collagen, enlarged skin vessel, precancerous and cancerous cells and other findings .

But reversal of these changes is possible through the use of tretinoin (Retin-A®).  Tretinoin, a derivative of Vitamin A, when used topically has been found to: increases mature good collagen, increase elastin, increase skin thickness, make the skin layers more cohesive and reverse atypical cells.  In short it helps to reverse the signs of aging and photodamage.

The side effects of tretinoin are temporary facial redness and flaking.  Although many patients are put off by this it is the sign that the tretinoin is rejuvenating the face.  With daily use these side effects typically last 2-6 weeks.  After which your skin will begin to look younger and healthier.

So if you’re looking to improve the health of your skin click here or call us at 703.752.6608 for a complementary consultation with Dr. Christopher Hess on skin rejuvenation.