Prescriptive medications frequently used in Aesthetic Medicine:
Tretinoin (topical)
Patient Handout
Generic Name: tretinoin topical (TRET in oin)
Brand names: Retin-A, Retin A Micro, Refissa, Renova
Tretinoin is a topical (applied to the skin) form of vitamin A that helps the skin renew itself.
Tretinoin has been proven to improve mild sun damage, fine wrinkles, discoloration and rough skin when used as part of a comprehensive skin care program. It works by lightening the skin, replacing older skin with newer skin, and by slowing down the way the body removes skin cells that may have been harmed by the sun.
Tretinoin is also commonly used to treat acne. It works partly by exfoliating the skin to keep skin pores clear of sebum (the bodyís natural oil).
Hydroquinone
Patient Handout
Generic Name: hydroquinone topical (HYE droe KWIN one)
Brand names: Alustra, Eldoquin, Lustra
Hydroquinone decreases the formation of melanin in the skin. Melanin is the pigment in skin that gives it a brown color. Hydroquinone topical is used to lighten areas of darkened skin such as age spots, chloasma, and melasma.
Azalaic Acid (aze-eh-LAY-ik ASS-id)
Generic Name: Azelaic Acid
Brand Name:
Azelex
- Cream 20%
Finacea
- Gel 15%
Used as a topical treatment of mild to moderate inflammatory acne vulgaris (cream); topical treatment of papules and pustules associated with mild to moderate rosacea
It works in part by stopping the growth of skin bacteria that can help cause acne. Azelaic acid also helps to lessen acne by keeping skin pores clear.
Metronidazole (MET roe NYE da zole)
Generic Name: metronidazole topical
Brand Names: MetroCream, MetroGel, MetroLotion, Noritate
Topical metronidazole is used to control rosacea breakouts.
Oral Antibiotics commonly used for acne include:
- Minocycline
- Tetracycline
- Erythromycin
- Bactrim
Topical Antibiotics commonly used for acne include:
Vitamin K
Topical cream
Few studies have been conducted to test the effectiveness of topical vitamin K. However, there appears to be evidence that topical vitamin K oxide to hastens the resolution of facial bruising that can occur after cosmetic procedures. While there is little scientific evidence to support the theory that topical vitamin K is an effective treatment for under eye dark circles, many people have claimed success with its use.
Arnica Montana
Topical cream and oral
Limited clinical trials suggest benefits of arnica for reduction in post-procedural swelling and bruising. Experimental studies on the effects of arnica preparations have also demonstrated antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects.
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