Dr. Deepti Shukla
Venereology
The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.
Answered by
Medically reviewed by
Patient's Query
Hi doctor,
I am using Tretinoin for the past five months and for about 2.5 months in I began to experience purging. However, at the time I did not know that it was purging, I just assumed that my skin was breaking out again because of the Tretinoin. So I decided to stop using it. I have been off of it for a little over a month and my skin has no improvement. After reading up on the whole purging series and realizing that I should not have stopped using it. I want to start back. Does this mean that I will be starting all over again and will experience another Tretinoin purge?
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
As you mentioned in the history also, yes, Tretinoin users experience skin purging. But it occurs for the initial few weeks only and it improves on its own with treatment continuation. Flare of acne, dryness, and irritation occurs for a few weeks. It should have subsided by now as you have stopped it for over a month. I would request you to please share a photo so I can assess how severe it is and can advise treatment accordingly. Also, if you start again you may face flare again but not necessarily. I would like to start you on one short term of systemic steroids also along with Isotretinoin to prevent this purging. But do not start steroid on your own without a dermatologist consultation as it has its own side effects. Until then, apply moisturizer on the face.
Was this conversation helpful?
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
Venereology
Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.
This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy
