Retinoic Acid with Topical Niacinamide

This is a variation of the Retinoic Acid with Copper Peptide multi therapy. Retinoic acid is a derivative of vitamin-A which promotes mild shedding of the skin. This mild peeling of the skin keeps the pores from being clogged and thus avoids the formation of blackheads and whiteheads. Retinoic acid is an excellent keratolytic agent but the main problem with retinoic acid when used alone (monotherapy) is skin irritation. Irritated skin due to retinoic acid use experiences redness, burning sensation and excessive shedding of the skin. For some persons, the side effects are very minimal but most users of retinoic acid gets annoyed by its side effects and may become non-compliant to this type of treatment.

 

Skin irritation can be minimized by using anti-inflammatories like corticosteroid (not recommended), copper peptide and topical niacinamide. The advantage of topical niacinamide over copper peptide is its lower cost. Topical niacinamide after retinoic acid use helps keep the redness and flaking of the skin minimal and also gives you the benefits of topical niacinamide use. Skin dryness associated with retinoid use is also reduced by topical niacinamide because a 2% topical niacinamide gel is more effective than petrolatum (Vaseline) in increasing the hydration level of the skin.

Dosage and Application

The recommended concentration of topical niacinamide is at least 5% check out the Do-It-Yourself section of this website for instructions on how to make one. For retinoic acid, always use the tretinoin microspheres version at 0.025% concentration. Apply first the topical niacinamide solution or gel on the affected areas. Allow the topical niacinamide solution to dry first on the surface of the skin and then apply the retinoic acid microspheres.

 

References

• http://www.retinamicro.com ( 12 October 2007 )
• http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/medmaster/a682437.html ( Last Revised - 04/03/2000 American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc.)
• International Journal of Cosmetic Science, Volume 26, Number 5, October 2004 , pp. 231-238 Authors: Bissett, D. L.; Miyamoto, K.; Sun, P.; Li, J.; Berge, C. A
• British Journal of Dermatology, September 2000, pages 524?531; and Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, April 2004, page 88
• Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, Volume 8, Number 2, June 2006 , pp. 96-101(6)
• International Journal of Dermatology, March 2005, pages 197-202

Page last modified: January 07, 2008