What is RETIN-A® MICRO?
	RETIN-A® MICRO™ is a prescription product indicated for topical application in the treatment of acne. It is the first prescription product to use Advanced Polymer System's unique Microsponge™ system. This technologically advanced system is designed to minimize the irritation commonly experienced with the highest strength of RETIN-A® (tretinoin).
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	What is the ingredient in RETIN-A® MICRO™?
	RETIN-A® MICRO™ contains tretinoin, the same active ingredient as RETIN-A® and RENOVA® (tretinoin emollient cream) 0.05%. RETIN-A® and RETIN-A® MICRO™ are indicated for acne, while RENOVA is indicated for fine wrinkles, brown spots and surface roughness when used as part of a comprehensive skin care program.
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	What is a microsphere and how does the Microsponge system work?
	Microspheres are round microscopic particles made of synthetic polymer. These particles entrap tretinoin in the Microsponge system and the medication is formulated into a gel. The microspheres hold the medication in reserve, allowing the skin to absorb small amounts of tretinoin over time. Dermatologists who conducted the pivotal clinical studies believe this may be why most RETIN-A® MICRO™ patients experience little or no irritation. The microspheres themselves remain on top of the skin and are easily washed off when you shower or wash your face.
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	What can RETIN-A® MICRO™ do for my skin that over-the-counter acne medications can't?
	While many products promise to "cure" your acne, they usually don't achieve the results you're hoping for. That's because nothing can "cure" acne. However, RETIN-A® MICRO™ can help successfully control it.
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	How much does RETIN-A® MICRO™ cost?
	RETIN-A® MICRO™ costs approximately $8-10 per month of therapy.
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	Does RETIN-A® MICRO™ contain mineral oil?
	No.
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	What's the difference between RETIN-A® MICRO™ and RETIN-A® (tretinoin)?
	RETIN-A® MICRO™ offers the maximum strength of tretinoin with minimal irritation. It has not been compared to RETIN-A® in clinical acne trials, however, clinical efficacy results appear consistent with results observed from other forms of RETIN-A® . Of those using RETIN-A® MICRO™, 90 percent experienced no or mild erythema (redness), 84 percent experienced no or slight peeling, 88 percent experienced no or slight burning/stinging, and 91 percent experienced no or slight itching at two weeks -- the typical peak irritation period for tretinoin. RETIN-A® MICRO™ can be applied immediately after patients wash their face, unlike RETIN-A® , which requires a 20-30 minute waiting period. Patients using RETIN-A® MICRO™ should not experience the same level of skin reactions as has been seen with the higher strengths of RETIN-A® in the past.
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	Are there different concentrations of RETIN-A® MICRO™ available?
	RETIN-A® MICRO™ is currently available as a 0.1% aqueous gel.
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	How do I get RETIN-A® MICRO™?
	A physician or other prescribing healthcare professional must prescribe RETIN-A® MICRO™. It is available at your local pharmacy. Click here to register for a $5.00 gift certificate off your purchase of RETIN-A® MICRO™ when prescribed by a doctor or other healthcare professional.
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	Has RETIN-A® MICRO™ replaced all forms of RETIN-A?
	No, RETIN-A® is still available at local pharmacies.
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	How safe is RETIN-A® MICRO™?
	RETIN-A® MICRO™ has been approved by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration. It is backed by the RETIN-A® 28-year heritage of safe and effective use in treating acne.
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	Why is RETIN-A® MICRO™ a yellow color?
	The yellow appearance of RETIN-A® MICRO™ gel is the result of the active ingredient, tretinoin, which is a yellow crystalline powder. The color is more noticeable in RETIN-A® MICRO™ due in part to the higher concentration of tretinoin, 0.1%.
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	If it's a gel, why does RETIN-A® MICRO™ look like a cream?
	RETIN-A® MICRO™ is an acetone-free, alcohol-free, aqueous gel with microspheres suspended in the vehicle. The microspheres have an opaque powder appearance and cause the gel to look more like a cream.
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	How long do the microspheres stay on the skin?
	The microspheres do not penetrate the skin barrier. The microspheres remain on top of the skin and are easily washed off when patients shower or wash their face.
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	How does RETIN-A® MICRO™ work?
	Although its exact mode of action is unknown, researchers believe that RETIN-A® MICRO™ penetrates into the skin and attacks acne in two different ways. First, it loosens existing acne plugs beneath the skin so they are pushed out and shed onto your skin's surface. Second, and more importantly, RETIN-A® MICRO™ helps prevent future outbreaks by keeping skin cells from sticking together, thereby preventing the formulation of new plugs. RETIN-A® MICRO™ also reduces the appearance of facial oiliness (shine) on the skin's surface.
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	What kind of results should I expect with RETIN-A® MICRO™?
	It's important to remember that RETIN-A® MICRO™ is a treatment that takes patience and dedication. Improvements in your acne-prone skin will take place gradually, but over time you should notice significant changes. Therapeutic results may be noticed after two weeks, but up to seven weeks of therapy may be required before consistent beneficial effects are observed. RETIN-A® MICRO™ significantly improved patients' acne by 12 weeks in clinical studies.
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	What are the most common side effects seen with RETIN-A® MICRO™?
	As RETIN-A® MICRO™ starts to work, you may (or may not) experience some side effects, such as redness, peeling, itching, and even breakouts. The good news is, these side effects (if you get them) usually only last for 2 to 4 weeks. Certain people who have sensitive skin may experience excessive redness, swelling, blisters or extreme peeling. These reactions do not happen to everyone. You may not get any reactions at all, which just means your skin is tolerating treatment. If you experience severe or persistent irritation, discontinue the use of RETIN-A® MICRO™ and consult your doctor.
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	How often should I apply the medication?
	For best results, stick to the plan for RETIN-A® MICRO™ that your doctor has designed for you and follow these simple instructions. If you have questions, please consult your doctor. It is recommended that you apply RETIN-A® MICRO™ once daily in the evening after washing. Wash your face thoroughly with mild soap or a gentle alcohol-free cleansing cream. Pat dry (avoid rubbing). Do not use an alcohol-based astringent or toner after washing. Make sure to use the dosage prescribed by your doctor. Do not overapply. Using too much may cause unnecessary irritation. To apply the medication, dab RETIN-A® MICRO™ on your forehead, chin, and both cheeks; then spread it over your face. Don't spot treat pimples. Smooth into your skin until the medication becomes invisible. When applying RETIN-A® MICRO™, be sure to avoid the corners or your mouth and eyes. Every morning, right after you wash your face, apply a sunscreen or non-comedogenic (non-pore plugging) moisturizer with sunscreen (regardless of the weather). This is an important step in your therapy, as RETIN-A® MICRO™ can make your skin more susceptible to the sun. If you spend a lot of time outside playing sports or working, it's especially important to remember these rules, and protect your skin from extreme heat or cold.
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	Is it true you should not go out in the sun if you're using RETIN-A® MICRO™?
	No. Contrary to popular belief, if you're using RETIN-A® MICRO™ you do not have to avoid the sun at all costs. Follow basic sun-protection guidelines, avoid extensive sun exposure, and talk to your dermatologist about your summer skin-care regimen.
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	What happens to my skin during treatment with RETIN-A® MICRO™?
	During the first few weeks of therapy, RETIN-A® MICRO™ pushes the dead cells and plugs that are responsible for acne to the skin's surface. As it does, you may (or may not) experience some mild burning, stinging, feeling of warmth, or peeling. Some patients also notice their skin begins to take on a reddish blush. These reactions do not happen to everyone. You may not get any reactions at all, which just means your skin is tolerating treatment. During weeks 3 through 6, blackheads are being dislodged and shed from the skin, During this time period, it may appear as if your acne has worsened but, in actuality, it's a sure sign that RETIN-A® MICRO™ is doing its job. Be encouraged! Stick with it! The worst is behind you. If you would like extra assurance, call your doctor. After six weeks, you should notice steady improvement in your skin. DO NOT STOP TREATMENT AT THE FIRST SIGN OF IMPROVEMENT. Remember, acne cannot be cured. But RETIN-A® MICRO™ can successfully control it, and help prevent new blemishes from forming. Between 7 and 12 weeks, you should begin to enjoy a big change in your skin. Fewer existing blemishes. Your skin should look better than it has in a long time.
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	Are there any precautions I should follow if I'm using RETIN-A® MICRO™?
	If you are using RETIN-A® MICRO™, avoid preparations that may dry or irritate the skin. If a reaction suggesting sensitivity or chemical irritation occurs, consult a doctor. Unprotected exposure to sunlight, including sunlamps, should be minimized and patients with sunburn should not use the product until fully recovered. Patients who are pregnant, who think they may be pregnant, or who are nursing should consult with their doctor before using this medication as no studies in pregnant women have been conducted.
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	What will happen if I apply too much RETIN-A® ?
	Make sure to use the dosage prescribed by your doctor. Do not overapply. No more rapid or better results will be obtained by overapplying the medication. Using too much may cause unnecessary irritation.
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	What happens if the product is swallowed?
	RETIN-A® MICRO™ is intended for topical use only. Oral ingestion of large amounts of the drug may lead to the same side effects as those associated with excessive oral intake of Vitamin A (irritability, fatigue, lethargy, abdominal discomfort, severe throbbing headache, insomnia, restlessness, painful joints). If the medication is accidentally ingested, consult your doctor immediately.
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	Can I use an over-the-counter product that contains benzoyl peroxide at the same time I'm using RETIN-A® MICRO™?
	Tretinoin and benzoyl peroxide neutralize each other when applied at the same time. Talk to your doctor about how to use these two products in conjunction with each other.
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	Can RETIN-A® MICRO™ be refrigerated?
	RETIN-A® MICRO™ can be refrigerated for up to five days.
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