RETINOL: A COSMETIC TREATMENT
Topical retinol has been used in cosmetic skin care products for more than 30 years2 to help diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Generally a well-tolerated treatment, retinol users typically experience minimal skin redness and irritation.2 A plethora of cosmetic creams, gels, and serums contain retinol. Obagi offers 2 concentrations of retinols to help minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. In a clinical study, patients reported a noticable difference in 1 to 3 weeks.3,**:
– Obagi Retinol 0.5%
An entrapped form of retinol is gradually released, improving the look of skin texture and minimizing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles with minimal irritation2,4
– Obagi Retinol 1.0%
A higher concentration retinol formula improves the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and skin texture with minimal irritation2,4 The exact mode of action of tretinoin is unknown.
**Study results for daily application of the Obagi360 System in a 12-week study; N=40.
Tretinoin Cream and Gel Indication Tretinoin Gel 0.05% and Tretinoin Cream (0.1%, 0.05% and 0.025%) are indicated for the topical treatment of acne vulgaris.
 
RETINOL: A COSMETIC TREATMENT
If a reaction suggesting sensitivity or chemical irritation occurs, discontinue use of Tretinoin.
The skin of some patients may become dry, red, or exfoliated while using Tretinoin and patients may need to temporarily reduce the amount or frequency of application, or discontinue use temporarily or altogether.
Tretinoin should not be used on eczematous or sunburned skin due to potential for severe irritation. Patients should protect their skin from sun, tanning lights, and extreme wind or cold. Use of effective broad spectrum sunscreen products and protective clothing over treated areas is recommended when exposure cannot be avoided.
Caution should be exercised when using Tretinoin with products that have a strong drying effect, particularly those containing benzoyl peroxide, sulfur, resorcinol, or salicylic acid.
Tretinoin Gel should be used with caution in patients allergic to fish due to potential for allergic reactions to fish protein; patients who develop pruritus or urticaria should contact their heatthcare provider. Tretinoin should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus, and used with caution in nursing women.
The safety and efficacy of Tretinoin have not been established in the treatment of patients younger than 10 years of age (gel) and 12 years of age (cream).
The most common adverse reactions are dry skin, peeling/scaling/flaking skin, skin burning sensation, and erythema. In some subjects the skin-related adverse reactions persisted throughout the treatment period.