Tretinoin and Waxing

With over 5M views TikTok user Abbi O’Connor experienced a bad reaction after having her brows waxed, whilst she was using acne ingredient, tretinoin.

Abbi Ingram, Skin Specialist at The Skin Studio London comments on the risks and lack of knowledge surrounding Tretinoin and what to be aware of when using the prescribed medication.

“Some of the leading online-prescribed skincare brands, prescribe tretinoin to their customers, without fully informing them of the risks and precautions of the skin medication. I have had clinic consultations where my clients have been given tretinoin and don’t even know why they are using it or how to use it correctly. It’s worrying and it can do so much more damage to the skin.”

Tretinoin has been shown to:
•⁠ ⁠Reduce inflammation associated with acne
•⁠ ⁠Improve the skin texture and tone
•⁠ ⁠Exfoliate the skin

When it comes to applying tretinoin here’s some things to remember:
Apply once a day before bed (unless your doctor tells you otherwise.
Avoid the eye area
Apply SPF everyday whilst using
Wash your hands after use

Things to avoid:
Waxing
Harsh soaps
Skin products with alcohol
Other topical skin ingredients
Sunlight/lamps (inc sunbeds)
Extreme cold (cryo therapy)

Tretinoin is more concentrated than retinol which means the side effects can be much more severe. Side effects include, redness, sensitivity and dryness.

The Beauty Team at Blush + Blow London have also commented, stating “It’s so important your brow technician asks these questions prior to your appointment to avoid things like this happening. Questions like whether they are using any medicated skincare, on any new medications or pregnant/breastfeeding, prevent side effect like this from happening. If your brow technician hasn’t ask you, take it upon yourself to update them – especially if anything has change medically for you”.