What To Expect On Your Tretinoin Journey by Musely Editors What To Expect On Your Tretinoin JourneyHere is what to expect on your tretinoin journey: Most of the side effects you will experience will happen during the first few weeks of treatment. You can expect a lot of redness and sensitivity. Because tretinoin is much more effective than over the counter creams, it can increase your sensitivity to sunlight. In order to protect yourself from a sunburn, use SPF 30 or higher, a hat, and avoid spending too much time in the sun. When you first apply tretinoin, it might sting or feel a warming sensation. If you can't handle the tingling, use the treatment every other day. Once your skin feels better, begin to use it every day. Over time, your skin will feel better as you build up a tolerance for the medication. Your skin is going to get worse before it gets better, so you can also expect dryness, peeling, and irritation. To help with the dryness, make sure to moisturize with an oil-free and non-medicated moisturized both in the morning and at night. Don't expect an overnight makeover, this process takes time, persistence, and patience. Within two months, you will see improvements in your skin with brightness and less visible wrinkles.