Can I use tretinoin under my eyes?

Author: Prof. Casimir Dicki  |  Last update: Thursday, April 10, 2025

Yes, tretinoin can be used to treat dark circles under the eyes. It has been found to effectively reduce darkness related to pigment and improve overall skin texture. However, it's important to consult a dermatology provider before starting tretinoin treatment for dark circles.

Can I use tretinoin under my eyes for wrinkles?

Answer: YES! Studies show that even prescription-strength tretinoin, the most potent Retinoid, can be safe and effective at softening fine lines around the eyes – IF used correctly.

How long does it take for tretinoin to work under eyes?

The bottom line

Retin-A (tretinoin) is a topical medication that's effective for the treatment of acne, wrinkles, and skin damage from the sun. It starts working within the first few weeks of treatment for acne, but can take 3 to 6 months for wrinkles.

How can I tighten the skin under my eyes?

Therapies. Various wrinkle treatments are used to improve the appearance of puffiness under the eyes. These include laser resurfacing, chemical peels and fillers, which may improve skin tone, tighten the skin and rejuvenate the under-eye area.

How to rebuild collagen under eyes?

Retinoids increase collagen formation, which improves the look of fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes. Begin with a lower concentration to reduce irritation. Use a vitamin C-rich eye cream or serum to fight against free radicals and promote collagen formation.

RETIN A 9 MONTH BEFORE & AFTER // TRETINOIN

Does retinol tighten skin?

Retinol can help improve the skin's firmness, which may help the skin appear “tighter.” However, topical medications (including retinol) can only treat the outer layers of the skin; they cannot address loose or sagging skin due to age-related changes in the underlying support structure of the face.

Is tretinoin 3 times a week enough?

You should aim to use tretinoin every night, however, you must start slowly as your skin needs to get used to it. The first 2 weeks apply it 2 to 3 nights per week, after that try applying it every other day, and then if your skin can handle it, apply it every night.

What does tretinoin purge look like?

Skin purging is common, but doesn't necessarily happen to everyone. In fact some people don't experience it at all. For those of us who do suffer from purging, it can look like: breaking out in pustules (pimples), the appearance of flaky, peeling skin, irritation and dry patches.

Will tretinoin tighten skin?

Yes! Tretinoin can help tighten your skin to some extent. It works primarily by stimulating collagen production and accelerating cell turnover, which can in turn, improve skin texture and elasticity making the skin appear firmer and youthful.

Can tretinoin damage eyes?

It can also cause dryness and irritation of the eye if it migrates into the eye itself. However, that's not to say that tretinoin is definitely the cause of your eye problems. There are many other important causes of eye dryness that require the evaluation and treatment of an ophthalmologist.

Is retinol too strong for under-eye?

Here are some precautions to take when using retinol under the eyes: Begin at a Low Concentration: Begin with a low-concentration retinol product (around 0.1% or less) designed specifically for the eye area. If your skin tolerates it well, gradually increase the concentration or frequency.

Where not to apply retinol?

Apply retinol in a thin layer to your entire face (be careful not to get it in your mouth, nose and eyes). You should use a dose that's about the size of a pea. For the first couple weeks of treatment, apply retinol only every other day. Finish with a facial moisturizer that won't clog your pores (noncomedogenic).

Does tretinoin increase collagen?

Tretinoin effects collagen in two ways. With consistent long term use, tretinoin will increase the production of collagen while simultaneously decreasing the rate of collagen degradation. In other words, a win-win benefit.

Should I put tretinoin on my neck?

The skin on the neck is thinner and more sensitive, so it may not tolerate tretinoin well, causing irritation. However, if you want to address signs of ageing on your neck, you may benefit from using tretinoin there. To avoid irritation, start with a lower frequency on your neck and build up as your skin tolerates it.

Can tretinoin cause broken capillaries?

Tretinoin, like retinol, helps reduce the visibility of these capillaries because it builds surface collagen in the dermis, thus minimizing the appearance of these capillary. The plot thickens when we consider other causes of 'broken' facial capillaries.

What are the tretinoin uglies?

A tretinoin purge, also referred to as “tretinoin uglies” is a common skin reaction that occurs when a patient uses tretinoin (Retin-A or Tretin-X) for the first time.

What are the results of tretinoin 3 months?

What are the results of tretinoin after 3 months? If you consistently use tretinoin for three months you can expect to have a reduction in acne breakouts, smoother and firmer skin, a more even complexion, enhanced skin elasticity and more refined pores.

What moisturizer goes well with tretinoin?

Three inexpensive moisturizers that our physicians love are Vanicream Daily Facial Lotion with Hyaluronic Acid, Neutrogena Hydroboost Gel, and The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid Serum. All three of these are affordable, non-comedogenic,and blend well with tretinoin.

What is the sandwich method for tretinoin?

Option one: The sandwich technique

After washing your face, apply a layer of moisturiser. Allow it to dry down for 5-10 minutes. Then, apply a pea-sized amount of tretinoin to your entire face. Allow this to dry down for 5-10 minutes.

Does tretinoin peeling ever stop?

Some people may notice that this side effect goes away within a few weeks of use, while others may have flaky skin for up to two months. Regardless of how long it takes to subside, tretinoin peeling is temporary and will go away once your skin gets used to the product.

Can I use hyaluronic acid with tretinoin?

Hyaluronic acid can also be used in combination with Clindamycin gel and Tretinoin when treating acne because it helps moisturize the skin. Hyaluronic acid can be combined with almost all other skin care ingredients because it helps to hydrate, plump, and protect the skin.

Can Tretinoin lift jowls?

Skincare products to treat sagging jowls

Luckily help is at hand! If skin laxity is one of your concerns, vitamin A-derivate creams and vitamin C (such as tretinoin, retinoic acid, and l-ascorbic acid) will stimulate the building blocks of the skin, fixing you from the inside out.

What tightens skin the fastest?

Laser resurfacing also gives you the fastest results. After you heal, you'll see tightening and fewer wrinkles within 2 weeks. Bottom line: Laser resurfacing can tighten skin, usually better than any other skin-tightening procedure.

Does retinol tighten under eyes?

By amping up your skin's production of collagen and elastin, retinol helps in firming, tightening, and thickening the skin in the eye area.

Previous article
Can permanent hair dye come out?
Next article
How can I hide my large pores without makeup?