How long does it take for tretinoin to fade marks?

Author: Lazaro Kunde  |  Last update: Sunday, September 28, 2025

The time it takes to start fading hyperpigmentation varies depending on severity and whether you're using Tretinoin alongside Hydroquinone. Noticeable improvements in skin tone may start after as little as 6-8 weeks or as much as 3-6 months of regular use.

How long does tretinoin take to fade scars?

Tretinoin would take longer to work for scars (up to several months)and dark spots than it would take you to see the results for acne or wrinkles.

How fast does tretinoin fade dark spots?

How fast does tretinoin fade dark spots? It may take up to three months of constant use for tretinoin to reduce the appearance of dark spots. You may see results faster if you use tretinoin alongside hydroquinone, azelaic acid, tranexamic acid or kojic acid.

Can tretinoin make scars disappear?

Using tretinoin over time may also reduce the appearance of acne scars as it promotes collagen production to give skin a smoother, even texture.

Can tretinoin get rid of dark marks?

One of the tretinoin creams is used to treat fine wrinkles, dark spots, or rough skin on the face caused by the damaging rays of the sun. It works by lightening the skin, replacing older skin with newer skin, and slowing down the way the body removes skin cells that may have been harmed by the sun.

6 Month Tretinoin/Retin-A Update: Before & After + My Current Skincare Routine!

How long does retinol take to remove scars?

However, it typically takes at least a couple of months for retinol to fade acne scars, and even prescription-strength retinol may not produce the results you want to achieve. Retinol is likely to have very little, if any, noticeable effect on the appearance of severe acne scarring.

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 an atrophic scar look like?

Atrophic scars are the opposite of hypertrophic scars. They are depressed, sunken and often have a pitted appearance.

How to tell if tretinoin is working?

After 4-6 weeks, your skin will get used to Tretinoin and will begin to be noticeably smoother and more even. Depending on how often you use Tretinoin, you may begin to see full benefits by this point. A lot of the initial irritation will settle down and true “retinization” of your skin is in full force.

How long does it take for tretinoin to fade stretch marks?

Tretinoin is a retinoid, which may also make early stretch marks less noticeable. In one study, people who applied this prescription cream every night for 24 weeks had less noticeable stretch marks.

Can I use tretinoin forever?

It's true that some people with persistent acne use tretinoin for years, but generally speaking, most stop once they have clearer skin or if they're no longer seeing results. Other people may continue to use tretinoin after their breakouts subside for the most part for maintenance therapy.

Is topical tretinoin bad for the liver?

Retinoids have been implicated in causing mild-to-moderate elevations in routine liver tests, but these elevations are usually asymptomatic and transient, resolving spontaneously even with continued therapy.

How long until I see results from tretinoin?

Retin-A (tretinoin) is a topical medication used for the treatment of acne, wrinkles, and skin damage from the sun. It belongs to a class of medications called retinoids. Retin-A starts working in as early as 2 weeks for acne. But its full benefits are more often seen within 12 weeks (3 months) of regular use.

How to make tretinoin work faster?

Expert tips on using tretinoin in skincare treatment
  1. Cleanse and wait 10-20 minutes before applying tretinoin. ...
  2. Start small and increase slowly. ...
  3. Ensure proper application of tretinoin. ...
  4. Make it a part of your nighttime routine. ...
  5. Integrate it in with your other products.

What moisturizer is best 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.

Will indented scars fill in?

It's natural to wonder, “Do indented scars fill in over time?” Unfortunately, these scars won't disappear on their own. Atrophic scars rarely go away completely, but with the help of a dermatology provider, you may be able to successfully reduce their appearance.

Does retinol help with indented scars?

The effectiveness of retinol in treating acne scars has been the subject of numerous studies, indicating promising results. Research suggests that retinol, by accelerating cell turnover and boosting collagen synthesis, can significantly diminish the visibility of acne scars over time.

Does Vaseline help atrophic scars?

Moisturize Atrophic Scars

This will help to keep your skin hydrated making it appear less dry and rough around the scar. Try using a non-comedogenic moisturizer, like Vaseline® Jelly – it won't clog your pores and is appropriate for use on sensitive areas, like the face.

When to give up on tretinoin?

Signs you should stop using tretinoin

It's normal to experience some dryness, peeling, and irritation—maybe even some purging—as you adjust to using tretinoin. But if the side effects become severe or don't go away, it might be time to hit pause and give your skin a breather.

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.

Can I use tretinoin as a spot treatment?

Tretinoin is used to treat acne, sun damage and as an anti-aging product to help reduce the appearance of fine wrinkles and dark spots. Tretinoin cream or gel works by helping the skin renew itself, decrease comedone formation, and also help with hyperpigmentation.

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.

How fast does retinol fade dark spots?

Bare in mind, you may not see results overnight - it'll take about 3-6 months of consistent nightly application to see a reduction in photo damage, acne, and fine lines.

What is tretinoin purge?

A tretinoin purge is a phenomenon that affects some people when they start using a retinoid skin product like tretinoin. For some users, acne will flare up within the first few weeks of using tretinoin before it starts to reduce acne. Tretinoin purge is also referred to as “acne flaring.”

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