Topical retinoids are derivatives of vitamin A and work by increasing the natural rate the skin sheds so there are fewer dead cells to block the pores. While there are some that do work, all of them carry a risk of skin damage if not used properly.

Some Initial Skin Irritation

Topical retinoids do cause a reaction on the skin when they are first used. The reaction can cause redness, lumpiness, flakiness and irritation. Use plenty of sunscreen as the skin becomes more sensitive in sunlight. Excess vitamin A could affect the foetus - pregnant women are advised not to use it. It is best to use lighter applications in the beginning to lessen the effect, but symptoms could still last for about a month.

RetinA

This has been around for many years and many dermatologists swear by it. This is generally used to treat acne, blackheads and pimples. It was a great discovery because the only treatment prior that was Vitamin A supplements, which carried a risk of over dosing over the long term. RetinA is an effective treatment but it does need to be used within the recommended guidelines. It is best used with the guidance of a doctor.

Renova

This is really the same as RetinA but milder, and with a greater moisturizing base. As women were aging and their skin became drier and more senstive, RetinA was no longer as effective. They found their skin reacted badly to RetinA, causing irritation. Renova was introduced to deal with that problem.

Other Products

Over the years other acne treatment creams emerged to compete with RetinA - products such as Avita, and Differin, which were introduced as a cheaper, milder form of RetinA. Tazorac is another product and is generally used for oily skin and blackheads. All of these acne treatment creams need to be treated with the same caution, as they are topical vitamin A preparations and can cause the same symptoms initially. Initially, they are all likely to cause some skin irritation and. in some people, acne breakouts. They come in the form of gels, creams or solutions. Cream and gels are used for different types of skin - creams moisturise and gels dry.

All these acne treatment creams and gels use a side effect of Vitamin A application: the drying effect it has on the skin causing it to shed cells, which reduces the potential for blockages. They all do what they are supposed to do but they do need to be used with care and under the guidance of a health professional.