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Topical tretinoin therapy: its use in photoaged skin
M T Goldfarb1, C N Ellis, J S Weiss
1Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor 43109-0314.
Abstract:
Tretinoin cream has been used extensively to reverse the changes of photoaging. It is the first topical therapy to undergo controlled clinical testing and proved to be efficacious. These results have been substantiated with photography, histopathologic examination, and skin surface replicas. The mechanism of action of retinoic acid is unknown, but it may bind to a specific receptor that alters the gene expression of the cell. Therapy is most successful when a liberal amount of tretinoin 0.1% cream is applied to the skin daily. Tretinoin cream has an excellent safety record; a local cutaneous hypervitaminosis A reaction is the only common problem.
Insights
Tretinoin cream effectively reverses photoaging signs and is a safe topical treatment. Daily application of tretinoin 0.1% cream yields the best results for skin rejuvenation.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Cosmetic Science
Background:
- Photoaging, caused by sun exposure, leads to skin damage.
- Tretinoin is a well-established topical treatment for photoaging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of tretinoin cream in reversing photoaging.
- To document the effects of tretinoin on skin aging.
Main Methods:
- Clinical trials with photography.
- Histopathologic examination.
- Skin surface replicas.
Main Results:
- Tretinoin cream demonstrated significant efficacy in reversing photoaging.
- Histopathologic and photographic evidence supported the clinical findings.
- Optimal results were achieved with daily application of 0.1% tretinoin cream.
Conclusions:
- Tretinoin cream is a proven and safe topical therapy for photoaging.
- The primary side effect is a localized hypervitaminosis A reaction.