The therapeutic effects of topical Retin-A on skin have been recognized for approximately 30 years, evidence based studies now showing a dramatic improvement to the skin with out any questions. Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin known as Retinol; derivatives of this, including Retin-A, are known as the retinoids. Retinol is available in our diet as the vitamin itself or as precursors known as the carotenes, Beta-carotene (found in carrots) being the most popular example.

These vitamins are absorbed through the intestines and stored in the liver. Retinol is the actual protein in the cells of the Retin-A that react to light, and Vitamin A has been used for over 3000 years to treat visual disturbances, especially night blindness. Vitamin A also maintains specialized epithelial surfaces such as the mucous membranes, skin, the intestinal lining, and other organs.

Recently, Retinols have been discovered to play a role in the development of tissues and organs, tumor growth suppression, and the immune system. Retin-A has been used for acne treatment since the late 1960's, triggering the revolution in non-surgical treatment and rejuvenation of the skin. Available in creams or gels of, Retin-A produces a mild superficial peel of the epidermis and affects not only the surface (epidermis) but also deeper layer of the skin (dermis). In the epidermis it affects the dispersion and depletion of melanin, as well as thickens and strengthens the actual tissue. At the dermal layer, it activates collagen-producing cells, increases blood vessel development and nutrition, and causes cells to divide faster. FDA approved it for use on photo damaged skin in the late 1970's, Retin-A stimulates repair, cell division, and collagen thickening, and decreases clogged pores. It improves acne, lightens spots, and smooths wrinkles. Minimal side effects include temporary peeling, redness and sun sensitivity, requiring that Retin-A be used in conjunction with a sun screen. In the 1980's, Retin-A became a part of other skin rejuvenation such as peel and dermabrasion.

We have learned more recently about the benefits of Retin-A, and physicians began to incorporate it into aggressive skin treatment protocols that provide for very safe and predictable skin rejuvenation. Often, the goal is a careful combination of three products; Retin-A, hydroquinone, and glycolic in a very specific physician-supervised program. The program can improve pigmentation, smooth wrinkles and prepare the skin for cosmetic surgery, and can also accelerate the healing after surgery, and accelerate their effect of bleaching creams.

Dr Bafitis does the compounding of his own prescription strength Retin-A creams and a custom cream called Fade and Renew. Fade and Renew can improve most skin facial discoloration, uneven pigmentations, fine and medium wrinkles, loose tone and much more !