A great deal of research shows that the use of tretinoin, a derivative of vitamin A found in the prescription-only topical creams such as Renova or Retin-A, is effective in treating skin discolorations. However, the response to treatment is less marked than with other topical treatments such as hydroquinone or azelaic acid.
Results can also take far longer with tretinoin than with other treatments, requiring at least six months or more before improvement is seen. As such, tretinoin is generally not recommended as the only treatment option for skin discoloration, but is used in combination with other effective topicals. Even though tretinoin can be disappointing for immediate skin-lightening improvement, that should in no way diminish the critical role it plays in the overall improvement in skin from the standpoint of cell production, collagen production, elasticity, skin texture, and dermal thickness. That’s why tretinoin, in combination with more effective skin-lightening treatments, makes a powerful contribution in the battle against sun-damaged and aged skin.
(Sources: Journal of the Academy of Dermatology, December 2006, pages 1048-1065; Skin Therapy Letter, November 2006, pages 1-6; and International Journal of Dermatology, April 1998, pages 286-292.)
Retinol, which is the entire vitamin A molecule, has some research showing it to be effective in reducing the appearance of skin discolorations. (Source: Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry, October 2008, pages 2589-2597.) I recommend several moisturizers and serums with retinol in my book Don’t Go to the Cosmetics Counter Without Me, 7th Edition and on my Web site, www. Beautypedia. com.