Topical Acne and Skin Treatments

Topical retinoids, acids and skin preparations at PCTMart

This category covers preparations applied to the skin, and the retinoids are the largest part of it. Tretinoin is stocked in 0.025%, 0.05% and 0.1% creams and gels under names including A-ret and Retino-A. Adapalene is carried at 0.1% and 0.3%, alone and combined with benzoyl peroxide. Isotretinoin appears in topical form here, distinct from the oral version. Benzoyl peroxide is stocked at 2.5% and 5%, azelaic acid at 10% and 20%, and dapsone gel is also carried. Tubes are generally 15GM, 20GM and 30GM.

Pigmentation and ophthalmic preparations

For pigmentation there are hydroquinone preparations, commonly at 2% and 4%, and combination creams pairing hydroquinone with tretinoin and a mild steroid. The category also holds ophthalmic preparations (latanoprost and bimatoprost eye drops), which are grouped here by formulation rather than by use.

How retinoids are actually applied

Retinoids need a particular approach to be tolerable. They are applied to dry skin, usually at night because several are degraded by light, and typically in a pea-sized amount for the whole face rather than spread thickly. Most people go through an adjustment period of several weeks with dryness, flaking and some irritation before the skin settles, and starting every second or third night is a common way to ease into it. Daily sun protection matters throughout, since these preparations increase sun sensitivity.

Pregnancy, combining actives and when to stop

Tretinoin and isotretinoin are not used in pregnancy. Combining a retinoid with benzoyl peroxide at the same time of day can deactivate one of them, so they are usually applied at different times. If your skin is broken, or a reaction is severe rather than simply dry, stop and speak to a doctor. Pack size in grams and the full strength are listed on every product, along with the guaranteed minimum expiry date. All stock ships from India via licensed distributors.

Patch testing first

Patch testing a small area for a few nights before applying a new preparation more widely is a sensible habit, particularly with the higher-strength retinoids and acids.