From the Research
Tretinoin is not the most effective treatment for keratosis pilaris (KP), with laser therapy being a more supported form of treatment, as shown in a 2022 systematic review 1. The use of tretinoin for KP is based on its ability to increase cell turnover and prevent the buildup of keratin that causes the characteristic bumps of KP. However, its effectiveness is not as well-established as other treatments. Some key points to consider when treating KP include:
- The most supported form of treatment is laser therapy, particularly the QS:Nd YAG laser, as demonstrated in a 2022 systematic review 1.
- Topical treatments, including mineral oil-hydrophil petrolat, tacrolimus, azelaic acid, and salicylic acid, can also be effective in improving the appearance of KP, as shown in the same review 1.
- Intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy has been shown to significantly improve KP in randomized, double-blind, sham irradiation-controlled trials, such as the one published in 2019 2.
- When using tretinoin, it's essential to apply sunscreen daily, as it increases sun sensitivity, and combine it with gentle exfoliation and skin hydration for best results.
- Common side effects of tretinoin include dryness, redness, and irritation, especially during initial use, and frequency of application should be adjusted accordingly. It's also worth noting that isotretinoin, a related retinoid, has been used to treat severe KP, as described in a 2022 case report 3, but its use is typically reserved for more severe cases due to potential side effects.