Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in Canada, but it is also the most preventable. There are many methods of preventing skin cancer, and many more are still being explored. One method of preventing and treating skin cancer is the usage of retinoids. What are Retinoids? Retinoids are natural and synthetic derivatives of vitamin A. When they interact with nuclear retinoic acid receptors, they proliferate and differentiate keratinocytes. Prescriptions include tretinoin and other synthetic tretinoin derivatives such as tazarotene. Traditionally, retinoids have been used to treat almost every part of photoaged skin from fine lines to hyperpigmentation. They are also used in the treatment of acne. Retinoids to Treat and Prevent Skin Cancer The power of retinoids, however, does not end with anti-aging treatments. They are also a prevention and treatment option for pre-cancers known as actinic keratosis. Retinoids can be used to treat cutaneous neoplasms, suppress tumor growth, and promote cell maturation. Oral retinoids already have an extensive history of being used as chemoprophylactics. They reduce the development of basal cell carcinomas, squamous cell carcinomas, as well as actinic keratosis. Oral retinoids help repair the sun’s damage to the skin. When retinoids are used as chemoprotective agents, however, patients may develop side effects that limit the amount of treatment they can receive. To combat this, physicians may use topical retinoids. This more localized form of treatment helps limit any adverse side effects. The usage of topical retinoids to treat and prevent skin cancers has also been backed by numerous studies. Topical retinoids are normally used to treat actinic keratoses and prevent basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas. Most topical retinoids are offered in a gel or cream form. Both appear to offer the same level of effectiveness and safety. Retinoids are, however, teratogenic, and therefore should not be used during pregnancy. Continue reading at https://kelownaskincancer.com/2019/07/10/retinoids-to-prevent-and-treat-skin-cancer/