
Otherwise known under the name of Tretinoin, Avita, and Renova, Retin-A is a form of the popular vitamin A used to increase cell turnover and therefore acne and possibly even scars. However, it should be noted that dead skin cells can still build up on the skin, requiring exfoliation. It also does not in and of itself shrink pores or allow oxygen into the pores in order to kill the bacteria. Nor does it provide any other way of killing the bacteria. However, like benzoyl peroxide, whether used from the inside or out, Retin-A can cause serious side effects as well as irritation upon application to the skin. Many experience flaking, which can be disconcerting and ugly to say the least. Some have used it for several weeks, and it has had an extremely slow effect, leading to the thought that it didn’t work for them. This can be true in some instances. But Retin-A works as a gradual pace and is actually proven to produce results. So patience is needed with this particular item. It can take 6-9 weeks to see results at all, and it has to be used for at least a year. For all these reasons, Retin A can be an undesirable alternative.