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I was complaining to my doc about fine lines, crow's feet/smiles lines, and the beginnings of those "marionette" lines (nasolabial fold area) and was inquiring about botox or a filler. He told me I wasn't ready for that yet and instead prescribed Retin A gel. He said faithful use of this, starting judiciously and then increasing, would provide visible reduction in about 8-12 weeks.
I've heard that Retin A (even the microgel) can be really harsh on the skin initially and to be prepared for redness, flaking and dryness, and to be sure to use a really gentle cleanser like Cetaphil and a strong but noncomodogenic moisturizer to help stave off the initial side effects.
Does anyone here use Retin A (either the original or the microgel) and, if so, did you discover a reduction in fine lines/plumping of the nasolabial folds and a reduction in pore size? If so, did you find his estimate of 8-12 weeks pretty accurate? Also, what cleanser and moisturizer did you find worked the best with the products?
He also told me to always wear a wide-brimmed hat or a strong SPF for ANY time spent out in the sun.
Advice appreciated!
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