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Individuals with acne have a plethora of choices available to them as far as treatment options go. They can either purchase treatment systems at retail stores or pharmacies, or can obtain prescriptions for medicated options that are more powerful than the over-the-counter treatments. Retin-A Micro is one example of a medicated treatment option provided by a dermatologist. In this article, the properties and capabilities of Retin-A Micro will be reviewed and discussed.

Retin-A Micro is produced by Ortho Dermatologics, a company that also makes Renova tretinonin cream. Ortho Dermatologics does not have a file with the Better Business Bureau.

Retin-A Micro is a gel designed to unclog pores, soften or remove scarring, fortify the skin against future breakouts, and heal and repair damage caused by moderate to severe acne on the face. The active ingredient in this product is called tretinonin, which is the acidic form of vitamin A. This ingredient is available in either .04% or .1% concentrations, and is meant to be applied by hand to the face. The user should first clean the face with a cleanser before application. The properties of the active ingredient, combined with “microscopic sponge-like beads”, help to make the skin look healthy.

As a prescription medication, Retin-A Micro is only available via a doctors prescription.

Therefore, a visit with a dermatologist is necessary.

The cost of this medication depends on whether or not one has insurance; without insurance, the cost can be as much as $100 (although Ortho Dermatologics offers a $50 rebate).

As with most prescribed acne treatment options, Retin-A Micro is quite capable against most – if not all – forms of acne. The downside, though, is with the side effects: dryness, itching or red skin, stinging, burning, or peeling. Not all users experience these, though, and most report that Retin-A Micro does eventually give good results (although the wait can be several weeks if not months). If continuously applied, and used as directed by a trained and qualified dermatologist, Retin-A Micro can be effective. One thing must be said, though: Many of those who use Retin-A and reviewed it used it in conjunction with other products, so the positive results may not have been entirely from Retin-A. Still, Retin-A does appear to be worth a try for those with moderate to severe acne.

Seasonal allergies are a constant companion for many individuals and represent a major health factor for millions of Americans. Symptoms include sneezing, coughing, red itchy eyes, sore throat and even dark circles under the eyes.

Hay fever is often caused by pollens which are at the highest counts in higher heats, humidity and carbon dioxide concentration. Ragweed is the most common allergen in the fall which causes our immune system to release histamines and other inflammatory mediators. The spring is dominated by tree contributions, followed by flowers, weeds and molds. These all cause the same immune system response. In the United States about 75% of allergy sufferers are to ragweed and 10% are to trees.

Since we can not cure allergies, we must change our environment to best deal with them. When the outdoor allergens are high, try and stay indoors keeping the humidity below 50%. Change the filters on the air conditioners at least once a month and wear a mask outside when working in the garden. Be sure to wash hands immediately after out door activities, shower and change clothes often.

Contact lens wearers should consider reducing their wear during high allergen times and while working out doors. If contacts are worn then rub and rinse them frequently and use hydrogen peroxide systems like AOSept or OXYSept.

Medications can also be very helpful. Eye allergy drops like Patanol or Pataday are great at relieving the symptoms, and severe allergy suffers can benefit from mild topical steroid drops as well such as Lotemax or FML. Systemic antihistamines that can be purchased over the counter are useful as well, Claritin, Allegra, Benadryl etc.

Always inform your health care provider and eye doctor of all the medications that you are taking even the OTCs. They can interact with prescriptions that may be detrimental, or antagonize conditions such as glaucoma.