Tretinoin is one of the most powerful anti-ageing and skin care treatments available in skincare. It’s been proven to reduce acne, hyperpigmentation and fine lines and wrinkles. The treatment has been a favourite with celebrities and influencers, but how do you get your hands on it? It’s a prescription only product and not available over the counter, but you can book a consultation online with UK Meds to see if you are suitable for the treatment.

During your consultation, an experienced GP will talk to you about your current skincare routine and your medical history to ensure that the treatment is safe for you. They will then design a bespoke treatment plan for you, which will include how much to apply and how often, so that you can achieve the best results possible. They will also advise you on the correct strength to start with, which will be based on your needs and your reaction to the treatment.

There are a few side effects to be aware of when using tretinoin gel. These can vary from person to person and may be mild or severe depending on how your body responds to the treatment. Some of the most common side effects include dryness, itching and irritation, skin flaking, redness and swelling, scaly patches, and hair growth changes. Your GP will be able to advise you on how to manage these side effects, but it’s important to let your GP know straight away if you notice any of them.

Tretinoin works by affecting the way that your skin cells grow, so they speed up their life cycle and die faster. This means that dead skin cells are removed from the surface of the skin, and newer, healthier skin takes their place. This is one of the reasons that it’s so effective at treating acne, as it reduces oil production in the skin and helps to remove excess sebum.

Some people experience a process known as purging, where the increase in cell turnover can cause the appearance of more blackheads or whiteheads than usual, but these should clear up again within a few weeks. If the purging is causing you to feel uncomfortable, your GP will be able to prescribe some medicine that can help.

It’s very important to use a high SPF sunscreen when using tretinoin. Your skin will be very sensitive to the sun, so you will need to protect it from UV rays. You will also need to avoid certain types of skin products if you’re taking the treatment, including harsh soaps, shampoos, hair colouring chemicals, and other skin care products that contain alcohol, spices, astringents or lime.

As a prescription only medication, it’s not suitable for everyone, and you should avoid it if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or trying to conceive, or have a history of liver disease. If you are unsure whether it’s right for you, please contact the UK Meds team and book a consultation with an experienced GP online to find out more.tretinoin gel uk