To use tretinoin cream for acne effectively:

1. Cleanse your face with a gentle cleanser and warm water, then pat it dry. Wait 20-30 minutes to ensure your skin is completely dry before application to reduce irritation.
2. Apply a pea-sized amount of tretinoin cream to your face, spreading it evenly over the affected areas while avoiding sensitive regions like the eyes, nostrils, and lips.
3. Use tretinoin once daily, preferably at bedtime, so it can absorb fully while you sleep and minimize interaction with sunlight.
4. To start, apply the cream every other night or 2-3 times per week and gradually increase to nightly use as your skin builds tolerance.
5. Follow with a moisturizer after application to help reduce dryness and irritation.
6. Use daily sunscreen during the day since tretinoin increases skin sensitivity to the sun.

Expect some initial dryness, flaking, or redness as your skin adjusts, which usually improves with continued use. If no improvement is seen after 8-12 weeks, consult a dermatologist for further advice or stronger formulations.

Key tips:

• Use only a small amount (pea-sized) to avoid excessive irritation.
• Apply to fully dry skin.
• Apply at night.
• Use sunscreen daily.
• Start slowly and increase frequency as tolerated.

This routine maximizes the benefits of tretinoin cream in treating acne while minimizing side effects.