Creams that include tretinoin as the active agent do double duty: they’ll not only improve your acne, they’ll also encourage collagen production and help smooth out very fine acne scars. Tretinoin is a derivative of vitamin A, which has been proven to be effective in treating wrinkles and improving sun-damaged skin. Although the ingredient is found in cosmetic formulations, it is actually classified as a drug because it alters the function and structure of the skin. Products containing concentrations of tretinoin require a prescription. If you have mild-to-moderate comedonal acne, your doctor may have prescribed a topical retinoid (such as adapalene, tretinoin and tazarotene) and/or a benzoyl peroxide preparation. Wash your face twice-daily (once in the morning and again in the evening) with a mild cleanser containing salicylic acid to unclog pores and speed-up skin cell shedding. Apply a suitable moisturizer to help improve the look of dry skin and soothe areas that may be inflamed from the irritating effects of some acne medications. Discuss with your doctor all of the skin care products that you incorporate into your daily regimen to make certain that they are being used in the correct order and the effects are not counter productive.
