Retinoids
January 2017
in “
Clinical approaches and procedures in cosmetic dermatology
”
TLDR Retinoids are effective for skin conditions like severe acne and psoriasis but must be used with caution due to potential side effects and risks during pregnancy.
The 2017 document provides a comprehensive overview of retinoids, detailing their classification, mechanisms of action, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics. Retinoids, which include first, second, and third-generation compounds, are used in dermatology to treat conditions such as acne vulgaris, psoriasis, and cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, with isotretinoin being particularly effective for severe acne and acitretin approved for psoriasis. The document emphasizes the teratogenic risks of retinoids, making them contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation, and discusses their various dose-dependent side effects, which necessitate laboratory monitoring. Topical retinoids are used for acne and photoaging, but can cause dermatitis and photosensitivity. The document concludes that with proper understanding and monitoring, retinoids can be safely and effectively used in dermatological treatments.