I started using Retin A when I was 14 or so, and switched to Retin-A Micro when I was 16. Retin-A Micro is gentler, even in higher doses, because of the microspheres so I experienced less side effects. My skin was dry and itchy at first, but my skin is mostly clear and glowing on most days. I've never had absolutely clear skin, but I had severe acne with cysts and everything, and now I just get a few tiny zits here and there.
It controls oil all day if you use it in the morning, but be sure to use a moisturizer in the morning if you're applying it at night. Your skin is naturally drier at night, so using Retin-A at night may make it dry in the morning.
I'm trying out Tazorac to see if I can zap the remaining zits, but if not, I won't stray from Retin-A Micro again because it's simply wonderful.
