Did you know that some of the best anti-aging products you can buy, either with or without a prescription, are Retin-A skin cream and other Retin-A products? Retin-A is found in many skin cream products in your local drug store, cosmetics counter and pharmacy. Consider this a definite plus in your anti-aging skin care arsenal.

Retin-A is a brand name of a derivative of Vitamin A. Retin-A skin cream performs its beauty enhancing miracles by speeding up the production of collagen, the basic building block of your skin that gives skin firm elasticity and shine. It ranges in cost from as little as $10-$12 for over the counter Retin-A products to as high as $100 or more for prescription Retin-A skin cream. If you see a doctor for your Retin-A skin cream, costs for the physician consultation can range from $100 to $200. When using a prescription for Retin-A products, your cost over a year can run into several hundred dollars.  

Retin-A causes skin renewal to happen faster than it normally would, which is how it can help fill in those tiny lines and wrinkles. While that’s all well and good, the process can cause redness and flaking, so don’t give up using Retin-A products if you notice these side effects. Of course, if they are very irritating or severe, such as ongoing redness, excessive dryness and swollen or blistered skin, then let your doctor know immediately. Your doctor can prescribe creams, ointments or oral medication to help relieve the side effects. There are some medications that can interact with Retin-A products, so make sure that your doctor is aware of all medications you take, whether over-the-counter or prescription.

Retin-A skin cream works best when you apply it in a very thin layer. You don’t need to use very much—in this case a little bit goes a very long way. Use a rough washcloth rather than just your fingertips when you wash your skin and this will help the exfoliation process and lessen the flaking. Apply plenty of moisturizer as well. Retin-A products will increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun, so make sure you wear a sunscreen every day to protect your face.