Tretinoin(retin a) or dermarolling better for increasing penetration of topicals?

[kj6723]

Tretinoin twice a week, or dermarolling once a week; of the two, which would be better on the scalp for clearing a pathway to the follicles for topical agents? Anyone have experience using one or both and see a significant difference in effectiveness compared to using the topical agents without one?

 

[pegasus2]

My opinion is Retin A if you can tolerate it. Dermarolling could cause scarring if it's not done right. Personally, I'm avoiding any kind of wounding until we know follica's protocol.

 

[kj6723]

Dermarolling does sketch me out a bit. My biggest concern with the retin a is that I don't like the idea of putting sunscreen on the scalp (which is essential when using retin a), and possibly clogging follicles...seems like it could end up being counterproductive.

 

[mr_robot]

I don't think there are any studies that actually prove that tretinoin enhances penetration, that is just a hypothesis that people came up with when they found minoxidil worked better when it was added.

I suggest you try menthol instead, it's cheap, easy to get and should not cause any skin irritation and you can use it every day.