Can topical retinoids cause side effects related to Post Accutane Syndrome?
Topical retinoids can undergo percutaneous absorption. However the effect is minimal, and the plasma concentration of all-trans retinoic acid is significantly lower as compared to oral Isotretinoin treatment. [1] A topical application of 0.025% of All-trans-retinoic acid slightly increased serum 13-Cis-Retinoic Acid and All-trans-retinoic acid (ATRA). Interestingly the researchers found that this treatment was associated with a decrease in nocturnal retinoid metabolism, suggesting that the slight increase in serum ATRA was sufficient to disrupt endogenous retinol/retinal synthesis. This is an effect explained by my model of Post Accutane Syndrome: https://secondlifeguide.com/2023/11/05/what-causes-post-accutane-syndrome/
Nonetheless topical retinoids can cause many of the same side effects as hypervitaminosis A. This is perhaps because of the enhanced skin absorption due to the use of retinoids on skin which is already compromised (eczema, acne etc.) These side effects include headaches, weakness, fever, and fatigue. [2]
[1] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8113456/