During 2021-2022 I was prescribed tretinoin for developing some cystic acne. Previously, I had acne of various kinds (pimples, closed comedones, blackheads, etc).
Tretinoin cleared out my cystic acne. Yet, I couldn’t tell if it helped with anymore because of my skins reactions (major breakouts for long period of times). I’m not sure if I was purging, as I never really saw my skin “clear up.”
I’m considering going back in tretinoin after seeing the results others have had after their purging periods. The images below are give or take what my entire journey on tretinoin looked like.
My skin has cleared up greatly but lately I’ve noticed some breakouts that seem to be cystic. Tretinoin is my back up plan to my current routine.
Was this a tretinoin purge (or a bad reaction)?
Unfortunately, there is no way to tell if it was a purge from the pictures. It very well could have been "purging". The good news is that tretinoin (and other retinoids) can be used over a long period of time. Many people start on it for acne and then continue using for years for anti-aging benefits. What I am trying to say is that if you saw good results from it in the past, it's is very likely to help you again - yet, I am not a doctor and this isn't a medical advice. If I were you, I'd try it again. I'd go slowly - applying it 3 times per week in the first month and then slowly increasing the frequency. I'd also make sure to use a good fragrance-free moisturizer twice a day and whenever my skin feels dry and cleanse the skin very gently to avoid damaging the skin barrier. I hope this is helpful - best of luck on your journey! Also, maybe this guide to creating a good routine for acne-prone skin can be useful: https://whatsinmyjar.com/skin-guide/skincare-routine-acne-prone-clogged-pores/