Retin-A has 3 main uses. First of all it is used in the topical treatment of acne vulgaris. Secondly it is used in treating the visible signs of ageing and can diminish the lines on the face and can help in fading age spots. The third use of topical tretinoin is to help enhance the effects on minoxidil for the treatment of alopecia or hair loss.

Topical tretinoin appears to increase the beneficial effects of minoxidil, and it is thought that this is due to increased absorption of minoxidil through alteration of the stratum cornum barrier.

One study showed a triple absorption with 0.05 tretinoin as compared with a control vehicle.

Does Retin-A assist in hair growth?

Tretinoin is sold under the trademark Retin-A. Retin-A was originally used in the treatment of acne and other skin disorders. Studies have shown however that Retin-A alone or in combination with minoxidil can result in moderate to good hairgrowth in individuals with Androgenetic Alopecia and Alopecia Areata.

Retin-A has been shown to effect cell proliferation and vascular proliferation. Studies have shown that Retin-A alone can result in good to moderate hairgrowth. The effect that Retin-A or Tretinoin has on growing hair is even more enhanced when used in combination with topical minoxidil. Dr Adam Lewenberg who markets a combination of minoxidil and tretinoin which is known as the Lewenberg formula carried out studies and recorded results of treatments carried out on patients. Dr Adam Lewenberg treated 484 people with a mixture of topical minoxidil and tretinoin. After two years of treatment "cosmetically satisfying" results were obtained in about 90% of these people. In an article written by Dr Lewenberg about his studies, Dr Lewenberg noted the following:

• unlike Minoxidil which effects on the vertex of the scalp, the combination of Tretinoin and Minoxidil results in hair growth in all regions of the scalp
• maintenance therapy requires less frequent and smaller doses of the combined medication
• the combination treatment of topical Minoxidil and Retin-A is highly effective in women

Side effects

Immediately after applying, the skin may feel warm or mild stinging or redness may occur. Some peeling of the skin may occur. These effects should subside as your skin adjusts to the medication. If they persist or become bothersome, inform your doctor.

Precautions

This medication can increase sensitivity to sunlight, wind and cold. Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun and sunlamps. Wear protective clothing and use an effective sunscreen.

This medication should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. It is not known if tretinoin appears in breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Use mild soap when washing your face. Do not wash face excessively. Abrasive soaps, cleansers, medicated creams or lotions can increase skin irritation. Consult your doctor or pharmacist about their use.

Use other acne preparations with caution while using this medication.