Galleria Medical Hydroquinone / Tretinoin / Hydrocortisone / Kojic Acid Cream Ingredients Explained

This is why tretinoin is so effective; it gets to work immediately on the skin.

Research on tretinoin has found it to be incredibly effective for reducing the signs of aging. It helps improve damage from the sun, even the skin tone, and smooth out wrinkles. It is also an effective acne treatment by reducing and balancing out sebum production in pores.

Tretinoin, like other forms of Vitamin A, increases the turnover cycle of skin cells. This helps the skin create newer and healthier skin cells faster.

It can cause irritation, redness, and dry skin because it is considered a "strong" ingredient. Those with sensitive skin should consult a professional about using tretinoin.

Using retinoids will increase sun-sensitivity in the first few weeks of use. Though studies show retinoids increase your skin's natural SPF with continuous use, it is best to always wear sunscreen and sun-protection.

Read about a form of retinoid you can purchase at the store, retinol.

Be sure to use this ingredient as prescribed by your doctor. Wearing sunscreen is also a must (you should be wearing sunscreen anyway!).

Most hydroquinone prescriptions are not to be used for longer than 3 months.

This ingredient is banned in the EU for being skin sensitizer. In the US, this ingredient is not allowed for over-the-counter sale.

There is no known research backing this ingredient to be carcinogenic in humans.

Gentle reminder that all skin tones are beautiful!

Kojic Acid is antifungal and often used to treat fungal infections. Additionally, it can help fight bacteria with its antimicrobrial properties. A side effect may be treating acne caused by bacteria.

A similar ingredient is arbutin.