How do I fix tretinoin skin burn
Started using tretinoin about a year ago, and a month ago I realized it felt like I was given loaded ammunition without much warning. I did some research here and there but was so excited to start it. My dermatologist started me on 0.5% at first, then switched to 0.1% after three months. Later, I added Clindamycin 0.1% with tretinoin 0.1%. In the summer, I wasn' t as strict with applying sunscreen, so I got badly sunburned, but I didn' t notice much damage. My problem is that the front of my face looks okay, but hyperpigmentation is mainly on the sides of my cheeks and face. So I focused mostly on the front and kept my hopes up. My old dermatologist prescribed tretinoin for about five months before adding Clindamycin, and I used that combination for another five months. I had to switch to a new dermatologist after my first one moved away. The new doctor lowered my tretinoin to 0. 5%, added azelaic acid 15%, and kept me on Clindamycin 1%. When I went back after seven weeks, they had me on:
Tretinoin 0.5%
Azelaic acid 15%
AM Routine:
Prequel cleanser
Benzoyl peroxide 4% wash (alternating with tretinoin nights )
La Roche- Posay toleriane moisturiser
Haru Haru Wonder sunscreen
PM Routine:-
Prequel cleanser-
Anua Rice Toner-
Tretinoin every other night-
La Roche- Posay toleriane moisturiser
Pictures: 1-5 were taken today.
Pictures: 6-7 were taken last November or December when I fully realized the damage I had caused.
Picture: 8 was taken a few days before I started using tretinoin last year
I asked my dermatologist about the severe darkness and congestion on the sides of my cheeks, and they recommended a chemical peel.
Can my face be fixed? Before the severe burn, I have always struggled with hyperpigmentation on the sides of my face, but it' s gotten worse. I don' t know what to do. I' ve struggled with acne and hyperpigmentation since I was a teen, and now in my late 20s, I' m still dealing with it. Before seeing a dermatologist, I was getting facials off and on for almost three years. I don' t even know what I need. Please help.