ReTrieve contains the active ingredient tretinoin 0.05% which is an acid form of vitamin A.
It is used for the treatment of dry, sun-damaged skin and can improve fine lines and pigmentation by accelerating cell renewal. The strength of ReTrieve is much higher than over-the-counter skin preparations of tretinoin.
How to use ReTrieve
ReTrieve is a strong skin medication only available by prescription. It is common to have a skin reaction but this can be limited by gradually introducing your use.
Apply ReTrieve at night, some – most nights of the week.
It is best used in combination with a simple moisturiser. Apply an amount which is the size of a pea or your little fingernail.
When commencing ReTrieve, introduce it slowly to avoid reactions.
The suggested regime is below-
Night 1 – apply and leave on for 5 minutes, then wash off
Night 2 – apply and leave on for 10 minutes, then wash off
Night 3 – apply and leave on for 30 minutes, then wash off
Night 4 – apply and leave on for 1 hour, then wash off
Night 5 – apply and leave on for 1.5 hours, then wash off
Night 6 – apply and leave on for 2 hours, then wash off.
If you have not experienced any irritation or redness, you can then leave ReTrieve on overnight.
Using a simple moisturiser before applying ReTrieve can also limit redness.
You can also limit the use of ReTrieve to a few nights of the week only, especially if your skin is only mildly skin-damaged.
Retrieve is generally well tolerated but consult your doctor if you experience side effects. Some redness and irritation may be experienced initially. Some types of skin will be too sensitive for Retrieve.
Apply an SPF30 or SPF50+ sunscreen to the treated area during the day.
Avoid exposure of the treated area to excessive sunlight, sunlamps, strong wind, dry air, skin peels, harsh soaps and exfoliants.
Reasons not to start ReTrieve
You are pregnant, planning pregnancy or breast feeding.
Speak to your doctor if you have eczema or sensitive skin or are using other medicines or skin treatments.
Speak with your doctor about any of these side effects if they are persisting-
- redness of skin
- feeling of warmth on skin
- peeling of skin
- slight stinging
- darkening or lightening of thetreated areas.
Stop taking ReTrieve and seek medical advice if…
- excessive irritation
- severe burning
- skin becomes very sensitive to light.
