Is this combo a definite NO-NO? I was thinking of starting to use it for fine upper lip wrinkles but I was just reading about it on the internet and it said you can’t use it if you are having electrolysis done. Experts . . . is this true!?
1 Like
Heavens – don’t do both! Your skin will be too sensitive. You may end up with dark spots or worse. You can use BHA’s a couple of times a week if you want, but not Retin A. People should never do electrolysis while taking Accutane, either. Spiro is fine, BHA and 2.5% benzoyl peroxide is fine, but don’t use harsh chemicals/meds at the same time as electrolysis.
Some have cautioned about using facial lighteners as the same time (hydroquinone), but I haven’t looked it up for myself.
Hi ht,
Do you remember where you read that electrolysis was contraindicated for Retin A users?
Many of our clients use Retin A; no dermatologist we know of has noted that electrolysis be avoided.
So, yes, you can have electrolysis as a Retin A user.
Since Retin A is applied before bedtime, the only warning I know of is that too much irritation can result from a late night electrolysis appointment so if you are a Retin A user or plan to become one, have your electrolysis earlier in the day.
Your electrologist might use alcohol free sanitizers on your skin and might prefer to use insulated probes.
The Retin A stimulates the formation of collagen and your skin should become smoother and firmer.
You might notice some peeling and dryness.
You will be instucted to use sunscreen. Use it.
Remember, if you use a #15, you need to reapply it every 2 1/2 hours.
Good Luck
I used Differin, when I was getting electrolysis done, and I noticed when I stopped using it, my skin was very hydrated, and recovered better from electrolysis.
I read about the Retin A/Electrolysis combo issues on several websites. Perhaps drugdigest.org or one of the other sites that I normally use to read up on adverse reactions to prescriptions.
okay, I just checked the above mentioned site and here’s a copy/paste from it . . .
Do not wash your face more than 2 or 3 times a day, unless told to by your prescriber or health care professional. Do not use the following products on the same areas that you are treating with tretinoin, unless otherwise directed by your prescriber or health care professional: other topical agents with a strong skin drying effect such as products with a high alcohol content, astringents, spices, the peel of lime or other citrus, medicated soaps or shampoos, permanent wave solutions, electrolysis, hair removers or waxes, or any other preparations or processes that might dry or irritate your skin. Consult your prescriber or healthcare professional before using these products.
Hi ht,
Essentially, what is noted in your post regarding tretinoin and electrolysis is that the user consult with their health care professional. If you couldn’t find the website/post that indicated you should not have electrolysis while using retin A, forget it, we all know that there is a lot of inaccurate information all over the internet.
Since I don’t know your age or your skin condition, if drying is a big issue, ask your dermatologist about the advantages of Renova over Retin A.
In any event, these are questions to ask your dermatologist who actually has your personal information and sees your skin and then, you can get an answer based on your skin and health situation.
Good Luck.
ELectrolysis is okay to do. As Arlene said before, perhaps your practitoner would choose to use an insulated probe and turn down the intensity a little bit and use a non-alcohol based product to soothe and cleanse your skin. I do electrolysis on Retin A clients with little fanfare. Exercising more care and observing the healing process is needed and I have no problem. Finding a practitoner with computerized equipment may be helpful as well.