Prescription-strength Obagi/Spear Dermatology Tretinoin Cream 0.05% is a powerful option for treating moderate inflammatory acne. Dermatologists often turn to Obagi Tretinoin Cream for treating particularly stubborn cases of acne.The cream is available in two strengths: The 0.1% strength is typically used to treat more serious cases, while this 0.05% concentration is the more common treatment.

Obagi Tretinoin Cream aggressively works to rehabilitate damaged skin and diminish the frequency of acne outbreaks. While not a cure for inflammatory acne, tretinoin is the treatment of choice for unclogging pores and encouraging the peeling of unhealthy, damaged areas of acne-affected skin. Removing old skin cells from these areas allows for new healthy cells to form, and therefore, healing the skin over time.

Because Obagi Tretinoin Cream is such a powerful treatment option, it should be used only as directed by your doctor, dermatologist, or skin care professional. He or she can develop a treatment regimen specific to your skin type and acne severity. Typically, the 0.05% concentration of Tretinoin Cream is applied once daily, or every two to three days for those with more sensitive skin.

During the first one or two weeks of treatment with Obagi Tretinoin Cream, the skin may appear red, flaky, and irritated. This is due to the medication ridding the skin of damaged cells and unclogging pores in order for the body's natural healing processes to take effect. After several weeks of consistent application, irritation and redness should subside.

Before applying Obagi Tretinoin Cream 0.05%, thoroughly wash the affected area with a soft, non-abrasive soap. Allow the skin to dry for at least forty minutes before applying tretinoin. The affected skin should be lightly covered with the cream using clean hands, cotton swabs, or gauze pads. Carefully apply the cream only to skin with acne sores; avoid healthy areas of skin.

Directions:

Wash your hands and affected skin area thoroughly with mild, bland soap (not medicated or abrasive soap or soap that dries the skin) and water. To be sure that your skin is thoroughly dry, wait 20-30 minutes before applying tretinoin. Use clean fingertips, a gauze pad, or a cotton swab to apply the medication. Use enough medication to cover the affected area lightly. Do not over saturate the gauze pad or cotton swab. Apply the medication to the affected skin area only (e.g., skin with acne sores).