Retinoids for Rosacea (Tretinoin/Retinol/Adapalene)
Retinoids, such as tretinoin or adapalene, are good treatments for acne and also have anti-aging benefits. They can play an important role in rosacea where there is sebaceous hyperplasia - skin thickening and bumps that result from overgrowth of harmless glands within the skin.
However patients with rosacea often have sensitive skin and it can be a challenge to introduce retinoids which can cause rosacea to flare.
It takes time for skin to become used to topical retinoids and it should only be considered when rosacea is well controlled. It is essential that retinoids are introduced very slowly over time.
How to start gently
- Use the sandwich method: Apply a layer of water-based moisturiser such as Cetaphil, wait for it to dry, apply a tiny amount of the retinoid (can be as little as a quater of a pea for the entire face at first), and then apply another layer of moisturiser.
- Start infrequently: Begin by using it only once or twice a week, on non-consecutive nights.
- Increase slowly: Only increase the frequency after several weeks if your skin is showing no signs of irritation. This is similar to the method for introducing any new product.
How can I help
I see patients in person in central London. An in person consultation allows me to examine the skin directly including features that are difficult to capture in a photograph such as 3-dimensional changes and textural change. This is the better option where the diagnosis is uncertain, where previous treatment has not been effective, or where a procedure is being considered. For more straightforward conditions such as acne and rosacea a remote consultation with clear photographs can be a good option.
Related articles
- A Simple Rosacea-Safe Skincare Routine
- Can I Exfoliate If I Have Rosacea?
- Best Ingredients (and Worst Irritants) for Rosacea
