Darkening of the skin after using retinoic acid cream usually recovers on its own in about 2 weeks to 1 month. Retinoic acid cream is a derivative of vitamin A. It is commonly used for common acne and may cause facial peeling, dryness, flushing, and darkening of the skin. If the medication is discontinued, it usually recovers on its own in about 2 weeks to 1 month, and the adverse reactions will gradually disappear. Adverse reactions may cause signs of skin irritation, such as burning, erythema and flaking, or even vesicles, which may make the lesions more noticeable, but at the same time indicate that the medication is working rather than an aggravation of the condition. The skin can mostly adapt and tolerate it, and the irritation can gradually disappear. If discomfort persists without relief, the drug should be discontinued and prompt medical attention should be sought. It is contraindicated in allergy, pregnancy, lactation, severe hepatic impairment, severe renal impairment, eczema, acute and subacute dermatitis. It is recommended that patients follow the doctor’s instructions to use retinoic acid cream, do not self-medication, in order to avoid adverse reactions.