I started Tretinoin three weeks ago. 0.025% cream. 

In the last few months, I kept getting breakouts on my cheek / jawline area. My skin also became more oily. I went to the dermatologist and she prescribed me tretinoin. I was told to use Tretinoin every other night. 

My skin is dry around my jawline, I have red spots on my forehead, I broke out on both sides of my neck, and I have a few breakouts scattered around my face. Is this the purge? Is my routine wrong? I want to give up. I used to have beautiful skin and now I’m at a loss. 

First pic is before Tretinoin, second pic is during/after Tretinoin. 

AM: Wash face with water. Paula’s Choice Hyaluronic Toner, Vanicream moisturizer. 

PM: Dermalogica Oil Cleanser, Vanicream cleanser, Paula’s Choice Hyaluronic Acid Toner, Tretinoin, Vanicream moisturizer OR Weleda Skin Food. 

I’m too scared to exfoliate. 

I recently stopped using the toner to see if that would help. I only use tret every other night. I’m leaning more towards Weleda Skin Food to help repair what I think is a broken skin barrier now. I know it’s only been a few weeks, and I don’t want to stop because I do think it’s helping my skin in some way, but I just dont know what to do with my routine. 

Help :(

Newbie