Retin-a

I receintly started using retin-a in combination with Obagi skin lightener.
I'm still shedding at week 3. When will it slow down?  I'm wanting to stay the course but it seems like something professionally comes up and I have anxiety about being seen like this!  Vein, I know but true?
is it true that the peeling will stop or slow down?

[Howard Rosenberg, MD]

Your reaction to the initial use of Retin A and Obaji is absolutely routine.  It can take up to several months for your skin to adjust to tolerate the treatment.  If you persist, the quality of your skin and many of the fine wrinkles will disappear.  Many patients stop treatment because of the reaction to the products, but in the long run it is worthwhile.

[mdesthy]

I am a licensed esthetician working in a plastic surgery office and have treated many patients with the Obagi NuDerm System.  The reaction you describe is perfectly normal.  If you can just stick with it your skin will eventually acclimate to the treatment.  You should see visible improvement in the color and clarity of your skin in about 6-8 weeks.  Hopefully you took some before pictures!  Obagi also makes products called action & tolereen to calm irritation if you are especially uncomfortable.  Also if a major event is coming up, your therapist can cut back your regimen to get you through your event, then resume it.  

[Pinksmything]

Do I have to let my face get beat red for Retin-A to work.
If I started getting burring when I put my regular lotion on in the morning, I skipped that night.  So probably 1 night a week, I have skipped the retin a.
will this lessen the effects?   Janet  :)

[Howard Rosenberg, MD]

Retina A need not be applied every night for effectiveness.  Many patients use it every other or every third day if they have a significant reaction without reduction in effectiveness.

[Pinksmything]

Thank you....
You have been very helpful!  Quick too!   I appreciate it!  Janet