Altreno^TM vs tretinoin (Retin A): We asked a derm why this new tretinoin formulation is better

Table of Content:
Similarities | Differences | Altreno ingredients and benefits | Side-effects | Precautions | How to use it? | FAQ

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For many decades tretinoin has been regarded as the gold standard for treating acne, reducing fine lines, and improving overall skin texture. However, recent advancements have brought a new contender to the forefront: Altreno^TM. This innovative tretinoin formulation is making waves in the dermatology community, leaving many to wonder what sets it apart from the tried-and-true Retin-A.

To shed light on this new and exciting prescription medication, we sought the expertise of a Dr. Anna Chacon, board-certified dermatologist who has shared her insights on the key differentiators between Altreno and tretinoin and why it might be a better choice for individuals with adult acne or with anti-aging concerns. 

In this article, we will explore the unique benefits of Altreno and the reason behind its growing popularity among patients and dermatologists alike. So whether you are a long-time Retin-A user or someone considering requesting a tretinoin prescription for the first time, this article aims to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the differences between tretinoin and Altreno as well as their benefits.

Similarities between Altreno and tretinoin (Retin A)

According to Dr. Chacon, Altreno and tretinoin (Retin-A) share a few similarities as they both belong to the same class of topical retinoids and are used for the same purpose to combat acne and anti-aging. 

• Tretinoin is one of the active ingredients in Altreno¹. Tretinoin is a form of vitamin A known for its effectiveness in treating acne, reducing fine lines and wrinkles, and facial roughness and hyperpigmentation²
• Both, Altreno and tretinoin stimulate the turnover of skin cells, promoting exfoliation and the growth of new, healthier skin cells. This helps unclog pores, reduce inflammation, and improve the appearance of the skin^{3 4}
• Both Altreno and tretinoin require a doctor’s prescription to purchase it
• Altreno and tretinoin both cause skin purging and may cause similar side effects, especially during the initial stages of treatment

How to get a tretinoin/Altreno prescription?

You can have a consultation with a board-certified dermatologist via Miiskin. First consultation is $59 and medication renewals are only $39.

Differences between Altreno and tretinoin (Retin A)

“While Altreno and tretinoin share a few similarities, Altreno can be considered an improved version of Retin-A due to its inclusion of micronized tretinoin alongside additional beneficial ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, fish collagen, and glycerin” said Dr. Chacon. 

“In contrast, Retin-A (branded version of tretinoin) only consists of tretinoin without these supplementary components,” she added. In another article, Dr. Chacon explains whether Retin-A and tretinoin are the same thing, so read on if you are interested to learn more.

Benefits of Altreno

Dr. Chacon says that the reason why Altreno is superior to Retin A (stand-alone tretinoin) is because it contains a combination of widely used active ingredients such as collagen, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin in addition to tretinoin, all of which are renowned for their benefits in combating skin aging. Therefore, while the stand-alone tretinoin formulations are beneficial, they lack of these other ingredients.

Tretinoin benefits

The benefits of tretinoin, one of the active ingredients in Altreno are many, that is why it has been one of the most popular ingredients prescribed by dermatologists. 

• Reduces wrinkles and fine lines by promoting cellular turnover
• Stimulate new collagen production
• Lightens sun spots 
• Regulates the sebum (oil) in the skin
• Unclogs pores 
• Reduces acne breakouts 
• Gives skin a smoother texture
• Gets rid of dead skin cells which minimizes appearance of pores
• Softens hard skin patches⁵ 

Hyaluronic acid benefits

Tretinoin and hyaluronic acid have always been considered the ultimate skincare duo since these two products complement each other so well. Although they have very different mechanisms of action, the benefits of hyaluronic acid complement those of tretinoin.

• Keeps skin hydrated and moisturized⁶ 
• It gives helps maintain a youthful appearance⁷
• Stimulates skin cell regeneration ⁸
• Reduces premature signs of aging due to environmental factors⁹ 

Collagen benefits

Studies conducted on on patients with wrinkles, lax skin, scarring, and stretch marks applying topical collagen have demonstrated significant improvements in skin appearance and histological changes such as: 

• Anti-wrinkling effect
• Increased dermal density and elasticity
• Improved skin texture, and hydration 
• Increased collagen and elastin deposition

These findings suggest that collagen treatments can have beneficial effects on the skin and contribute to overall skin enhancement^10. 

Glycerin benefits

The topical application of glycerin (also known as glycerol) can be beneficial for conditions characterized by dryness and impaired barrier function, particularly skin conditions aggravated by dry and cold environmental conditions. Glycerin has multiple positive effects on the skin, including:

• Improving hydration
• Enhancing the skin’s barrier function
• Protecting the skin against irritants
• Accelerating wound healing
• Antimicrobial properties¹¹ 

Side effects of Altreno and tretinoin

Since they both include tretinoin, their side effects are quite similar which may include the so-called “tretinoin purge” and other symptoms such as burning, redness, stinging, peeling, dryness and skin irritation^12. However, according to clinical trials these symptoms only affect 1% of the patients using it¹³. 

• Dryness
• Pain
• Redness
• Irritation
• Peeling¹⁴ 

Warnings and precautions when using tretinoin or Altreno

Dr. Chacon said that since Altreno contains tretinoin (which is a retinoid) it cannot be used by pregnant or nursing women^15..

The Altreno formulation includes fish proteins, if you have a known fish allergy and experience hives or itching during your treatment, it is essential you let your dermatologist know¹⁶.

Inform your dermatologist about any pre-existing skin conditions, such as eczema, and provide a list of the medications you take, including prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

“To protect your skin, it is advisable to minimize sun exposure and avoid tanning beds. Apply sunscreen with a high sun protection factor every morning on the skin areas undergoing treatment with Altreno and reapply every two hours when being outdoors,” said Dr. Chacon.

How to use tretinoin and Altreno?

Tretinoin and Altreno should be applied once a day during the night after washing your face with a gentle cleanser.

In the case of Altreno, this is enough, as it is quite gentle on the skin. In the case of tretinoin you can follow a list of recommendations by Dr. Chacon to minimize tretinoin irritation. 

FAQ About Altreno and tretinoin

Can tretinoin and Altreno be bought over the counter (OTC)?

Both tretinoin and Altreno are not available over the counter (OTC), they are prescription medications.

How can you get a prescription for tretinoin or altreno?

You can request a virtual visit with an online dermatologist which only costs $59 and if suitable, you will get an answer and a prescription for Tretinoin or Altreno in 1-2 days. Then you can pick up the medication from your local pharmacy.

How much is Altreno and how much is tretinoin?

According to the Altreno official website, a 20g of Altreno is $60 while a 20g tube of generic tretinoin is $20 – $40*.

*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.

References:
https://www.altreno.com/the-evidence/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557478/#article-37574_s5
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3225141/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7570474/
https://www.hmpgloballearningnetwork.com/site/wounds/article/hyaluronic-acid-inflammation-and-tissue-regeneration
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3583886/
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/358298784_Collagen_Supplements_for_Aging_and_Wrinkles_A_Paradigm_Shift_in_the_Field_of_Dermatology_and_Cosmetics
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18510666/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/tretinoin-topical-route/side-effects/drg-20066521
https://www.healio.com/news/pediatrics/20180824/fda-approves-altreno-for-acne-treatment-in-kids-adults
https://www.altrenohcp.com/siteassets/pdf/patient-brochure.pdf
https://obgyn.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/tog.12075

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