Retinol/Tretinoin/Obagi

[Sugarfreejelly]

I know there are various retinol threads so I’m sorry to be a bore....but...

I’ve just purchased the Obagi Nu Derm kit which contains 0.05% tretinoin (I asked for the 0.025% but she said this would be better). I have no skin conditions, I just want the anti-aging effects.

However, I’m now having a major wobble about using it as I’m concerned about the peeling and redness. I already use the Ordinary’s Granactive Retinoid 2% emulsion with no problems.

I am wondering whether anyone can advise me on whether or not I should use the Obagi OR if I’d be better just using the tretinoin on its own and see how this goes first. I’ve read on various threads here that using the tretinoin on its own is kinder on the skin so wondering if that might be a better starting point.

I felt a bit rushed into buying the Obagi and I’m kicking myself now.

Hopeful bump!

I’ve read on various threads here that using the tretinoin on its own is kinder on the skin

I'm not sure how you came to that conclusion but it's the opposite. Tretinoin is easier tolerated by buffering with a bland moisturiser or applying it over a layer of moisturiser or leaving a period of time (30-60mins) after cleansing before applying.

The ordinary granactive retinoid is very mild on the skin, so in all likelihood you will be having some adjustment side effects with tretinoin. 0.05 wouldn't be my choice to start off with eithee so I'd definitely start slow (once a week) and build up, using it buffered or one of the other methods mentioned above and then gradually start using it undiluted in a similar schedule ie. start using it once a week undiluted, then build up, etc.

@botemp
Thanks for replying. I meant that I’ve been told that using just tretinoin is kinder on the skin than using the full Obagi Nu Derm system which also includes Hydraquinone in addition to the Tretinoin. Does that make sense?

Maybe I’ll try applying over a moisturiser once a week and start from there?

In that sense, yes, but I thought they didn't sell the hydroquinone product as part of the system in the UK. I think it's just the one product so if you did get that and don't have hyperpigmentation issues then you can probably just skip that.

Once a week sounds sensible, try twice a week for a week or two after that if it's going fine then build up to every other day, potentially every day but it's not many who can use it every day without issue.

How much is tretinoin in the UK?

I started using it every third night, then every second night. I was expecting dry skin etc but didn't have any problems apart from the odd little spot (which would be unusual for me) as my skin was getting used to it.

Little, I'm not sure how much Obagi is but I know it's pricey, especially the entire nu system. You can get a monthly subscription with Dermatica, an online dermatologist service that sends you a monthly prescription cream for around £22 a month.

I’ve double checked and the Obagi does have hydroquinone in - 2 products, one for the morning and one for the evening

The Obagi is really expensive - it’s 8 separate products. Wish I had just bought the Tretinoin now....

@ MoltonSilver
How do you use the Tretinoin? Do you mix it with anything or use moisturiser first?