for the face only, the right amount is the size of a pea. dot on forehead, each cheek, chin. then blend. when they say thin layer, they mean thin enough that it is immediately absorbed, you shouln't feel it or see it

There have been newer more advanced versions of Retin A/Tretinoin products that have come to market that I personal use and LOVE. These two more advanced versions of Tretinoin are Reffissa and Atralin.

Refissa is like Renova, tretinoin suspended in a moisturizing cream base that assists in minimizing negative side affects that are usually associated with Retin-A/Tretinon use, e.g. dryness, irritation, peeling, inflammation etc. Refissa is a newer version of Renova but at a stronger level, containing .05% tretinoin suspended in a moisturizing base as well though a less viscous lighter base than Renova. This lighter base allows the active ingredient to permeate the dermal layers pore deeply, which greatly assists in better results and less negative side affects.

The absolute bnest RX Tretinoin product in the market in my opinion is without a doubt Atralin. Its .05% Tretinoin in an aqueous base! Since this base is aqueous, it penetrates more deeply than any other RC tretinoin product available and produces LITTLE TO NO NEGATIVE SIDE AFFECTS whatsoever! An insurance will cover it!

Pleas save yourself money, time and frustration and don't use an OTC retinol products, as most are worthless. The retinol MUST ne at least 1% Retinol to be somewhat affective, but the reuts pale i comparison to Tretinoin.

If you simply insist on using an OTC Retinol product, I HIGHLY suggest Peter Thomas Roth's Retinol Fusion as it contains 1.5% encapsulated retinol in a squalane base with vit c added in. I sometimes use this product OVER my Atralin! Good luck with whatever you choose!