Aklief (trifarotene) vs tretinoin: What is best for acne and hyperpigmentation?
This article compares Aklief with tretinoin highlighting their various characteristics, different ways of action, and how they improve the skin.
Table of Content:
Similarities | Differences | Price | What is best for acne? | What is best for pigmentation? | What is best for anti-aging? | Who can use them? | Who should not use them?
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Navigating the world of acne and hyperpigmentation treatments can be overwhelming, especially with the variety of options available. Among these options, Aklief (trifarotene) and tretinoin (Retin-A / Altreno) stand out as popular choices.
Both of these popular medications are known for their effectiveness in addressing these skin concerns, but what sets them apart?
In this article, we will explore the differences between Aklief (trifarotene) and tretinoin (Retin-A), shedding light on their unique properties, mechanisms of action, and their gentleness on the skin. This information will help you and your online dermatologist make an informed decision on what medication may be better for you.
Similarities between Aklief (trifarotene) and tretinoin
Aklief (trifarotene) and tretinoin are both topical prescription medications commonly used to treat acne and hyperpigmentation (melasma)1. This means they can only be purchased with a doctor’s prescription.
Besides, both medications belong to a class of medications called retinoids, which are derivatives of vitamin A known for their ability to influence skin cell turnover, unclog pores, and promote a smoother complexion2.
It is important to highlight that applying these topical medications at night and the concurrent use of sunscreen in these treatments is essential, as stimulating cell turnover makes the skin more prone to sunburn.
Acne
Both Aklief and tretinoin are widely prescribed for the treatment of acne vulgaris. They work by targeting multiple factors involved in acne development, including reducing inflammation, preventing clogged pores, and promoting the shedding of dead skin cells3 4 .
Hyperpigmentation
Both Aklief and tretinoin can contribute to the improvement of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), which often occurs after acne breakouts. Their ability to promote skin cell turnover can help fade dark spots and even out skin tone over time5 6 .
Comedolytic properties
Comedones, including blackheads and whiteheads (usually called pimples), are a common feature of acne. Aklief and tretinoin help to address these lesions by promoting their removal and preventing their formation7 8
Cell turnover stimulation
Both medications accelerate the natural process of skin cell turnover. By shedding old skin cells more efficiently, they help reveal newer, healthier skin layers, which can improve skin texture and tone9 10 .
Increased need for sun protection
Aklief and tretinoin like all retinoids will likely increase skin sensitivity to sunlight. That is why it is indispensable to use adequate protection, such as sunscreen with SPF 50 every morning (even during winter) on areas being treated and that are exposed to the sun when using these medications to prevent sunburn and other sun-related skin damage.
May cause initial irritation (skin purging)
In the early stages of use, both medications may cause irritation on the skin (also known as skin purging) which includes redness, dryness, peeling and additional breakouts as the skin adjusts to the treatment. Using tretinoin in the proper way can help manage these side effects.
Cannot be used by pregnant women
Tretinoin and Aklief cannot be used by women who want to get pregnant, who are pregnant or nursing as it may cause teratogenic effects on the fetus.
All About Tretinoin
Aklief vs tretinoin: the main differences
Aklief (trifarotene) and tretinoin are both topical medications used to treat skin conditions, particularly acne. However, they have differences in terms of their formulation, age of usage, side-effects and price.
Aklief is much more expensive than tretinoin, and although it is a newer retinoid, the cost-benefit is not that much, therefore tretinoin becomes a much better alternative overall.
How to get a tretinoin prescription?
You can get a tretinoin prescription by having a photo consultation with an online dermatologist via Miiskin for $59. Medication refills are only $39.
Retinoid classification
Aklief (Trifarotene) is a fourth-generation retinoid (medication released in 2019) designed to target retinoic acid receptor gamma, which is found in the skin. This selective targeting potentially reduces side effects associated with impacting other retinoic acid receptors.
Tretinoin on the other hand is a first-generation retinoid (medication that was introduced in the 70’s) that binds to multiple retinoic acid receptors and has been widely used to treat several skin conditions11.
FDA approvals
Since Aklief (trifarotene) is a newer medication it only so far received FDA approval for the treatment of acne. On the other hand tretinoin has been around for many years and has received FDA-approval for the treatment of acne, fine wrinkles, mottled hyperpigmentation, and rough skin texture caused by chronic sun exposure and the natural aging process12.
Age of usage
Most tretinoin formulations (with the exception of Altreno) should only be used by patients 12 years of age and older. On the other hand, Aklief can be used by patients as young as 9 years of age13.
Formulation
Aklief is available only as a topical cream formulation. On the other hand you can find tretinoin creams, gels, and lotions, with different strengths designed for specific skin types.
Generic
Since Aklief is a newer medication, there isn’t a generic formulation available in the market, on the other hand there are multiple brands and generic formulations available for tretinoin.
Price
The off-the-shelf price for Aklief without any coupon is between $600 – $700 for a 45 gr. tube. However, the manufacturer of Aklief offers a patient coupon that allows patients to buy Aklief for $60. The price of tretinoin ranges between $20 – $150 depending on the brand and concentration*.
*The price range listed here is just an estimation. Medication prices may vary depending on the state and the pharmacy selected. Miiskin is not responsible and cannot influence the price of the medication as it is independent from these entities.
Side Effects
Aklief (Trifarotene) is formulated to target the retinoic acid receptor gamma potentially minimizing the potency of its side effects which include skin dryness, irritation, and redness. Clinical studies have shown that trifarotene (Aklief) is generally well-tolerated, and it causes less skin irritation compared to tretinoin14.
Tretinoin can cause side effects such as skin dryness, peeling, redness, and increased sensitivity to sunlight, especially during the initial stages of treatment. That is why at the beginning of the treatment, it is recommended to alternate and not use it every night.
What is the price of Aklief and tretinoin?
The price of Aklief varies between $600 to $700. However the manufacturer offers coupons for patients who purchase Aklief cream out-of-pocket. With the Galderma Care card, patients can buy a tube of Aklief for $60.
On the other hand the price of a generic tube of tretinoin varies between $20 – $50. A milder version of tretinoin, Altreno, is $60 – $115.
*The price range listed here is just an estimation. Medication prices may vary depending on the state and the pharmacy selected. Miiskin is not responsible and cannot influence the price of the medication as it is independent from these entities.
What is best for acne Aklief or tretinoin?
According to Dr. Carolina Fernandez, board-certified dermatologist, both tretinoin and Aklief can be effective in treating acne. The choice between them can depend on factors such as the severity of your acne, your skin’s sensitivity, and your dermatologist’s recommendation.
Your online dermatologist can assess your specific skin condition, medical history, and treatment goals to provide personalized advice on which medication may be more suitable for you. You should always follow your provider’s guidance and use the medication as directed to achieve the best results while minimizing potential side effects. It is important to follow the provided instructions and usage guidelines.
What is best for hyperpigmentation tretinoin or Aklief?
According to Dr. Fernandez, both tretinoin and Aklief (trifarotene) have the potential to address hyperpigmentation to some extent due to their retinoid properties, which promote skin cell turnover and renewal. However, it’s important to note that while they can contribute to the improvement of hyperpigmentation, they are not specifically designed for this purpose like other treatments such as Tri Luma (hydroquinone/tretinoin blend).
It is important to consider that there are dermal hyperpigmentation (meaning they are deep in the skin) that might require additional treatment.
What is best as an anti-aging tretinoin or Aklief?
According to Dr. Fernandez, both tretinoin and Aklief (trifarotene) can address certain signs of aging due to their retinoid properties, including stimulating collagen production, improving skin texture, and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
However, there are some considerations to keep in mind when choosing between tretinoin and Aklief for anti-aging purposes:
Tretinoin is a well-established retinoid that has been used for decades as an anti-aging agent. Tretinoin’s multiple retinoic acid receptor targeting can result in more comprehensive effects on skin cell turnover, collagen production, and skin texture improvement. Due to its long history of use, there is substantial clinical evidence supporting its anti-aging benefits.
Since Aklief is a newer medication that targets retinoic acid receptor gamma, this means there is a lack of long-term clinical data compared to tretinoin.
The efficacy of Aklief for anti-aging purposes is related to its ability to influence skin cell turnover and collagen production, similar to tretinoin since it is also a retinoid.
Who can use tretinoin?
Patients over 12 years of age. Women who are not pregnant or breastfeeding.
Who can use Aklief?
Patients over 9 years of age. Women who are not pregnant or breastfeeding.
Who should not use tretinoin or Aklief?
Patients under the age limit or who want to become pregnant, are pregnant or breastfeeding as it may cause teratogenic effects on the fetus.
Is Aklief better than tretinoin?
Although Aklief is often less irritating when it comes to sensitive skin, tretinoin is more reasonably priced and it is approved by the FDA for anti-aging and hyperpigmentation.
But the truth is that both retinoids have a lot in common. Always follow your dermatologist’s recommendations regarding which of these topical retinoid treatments to use to treat your acne or other skin conditions.
Aklief vs tretinoin: The takeaway
Choosing between Aklief and tretinoin depends on factors such as your specific skin condition, your skin type and sensitivity to the ingredients. Talk to your online dermatologist to determine the most appropriate treatment option based on your needs and medical history.
Other tretinoin topics
Everything you need to know about using tretinoin for wrinkles and anti-aging.
Have you heard about the so-called tretinoin purge? When should you expect it to come, how to minimize the symptoms, and how long will it last.
What is the difference between Altreno and Retin-A? Discover the differences between these two tretinoin brands.
Tazarotene vs tretinoin: What are the differences between these two retinoids and learn which one is better for your skin?
This article is also available in Spanish: Retin-A ó Aklief ¿Cuál es mejor para el acné y la hiperpigmentación?
Article References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9166940
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8750127/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557478/
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