A pharmacist has warned against buying prescription-only skincare from unregulated websites, as it can cause serious skin damage if misused without guidance.
Pharmacist Elina has cautioned people against purchasing tretinoin, a potent prescription retinoid, from "unregulated websites" due to its strength. According to Healthline, tretinoin accelerates skin cell renewal, unclogs pores, and stimulates collagen production.
Why tretinoin is risky without a prescription
While tretinoin is prescribed to treat acne, reduce fine lines, and lighten dark spots, improper use can compromise your skin barrier and trigger serious irritation, redness, peeling, and burning sensations. Therefore, you shouldn't be using it without seeking the advice of a health professional beforehand.
The specialist explained that purchasing tretinoin from unregulated websites means you "don't know if the product is genuine, you don't know if it's been stored correctly, you don't know if the strength is even accurate, and you don't know if it's actually appropriate for you".
Damage reported by users
Elina stated that you're "putting your skin at risk" when buying such products without a proper prescription, and revealed she's received numerous messages from individuals who have "damaged their skin" while using it.
People frequently use the product "inappropriately" and purchase it from "random websites," meaning they're "not actually sure what's even in it". "Tretinoin is a prescription-only medication, and it's prescription-only for a reason, and it should be prescribed by a qualified healthcare professional," she urged.
How tretinoin is prescribed
Elina noted that there are "so many things to take into consideration" when prescribing tretinoin, such as medical history, what dose is suitable for you, what formulation is suitable for you, the rest of your skincare routine, and how to use it safely.
"These are all things that you really need to know before starting," she shared, encouraging people to have their skin assessed before assuming tretinoin is something they genuinely require. Elina highlighted: "It's an amazing product - just needs to be purchased safely".
Risks and side effects
During the first few weeks, skin can often feel dry, tight, or flaky, though those with a prescription will already have been advised of this. Your skin may appear "sunburned" initially, with irritation and redness, as it adjusts to the product. Temporary breakouts may also arise as deeper blockages surface.
Daily SPF is also non-negotiable as skin burns more easily while you're using tretinoin. Always consult a medical professional if you have worries about your skin, rather than purchasing medication online and hoping for positive results. The NHS website also offers a wealth of useful information.
