Tretinoin vs retinol: Why is tretinoin a far better alternative?
Dr. Chacon explains why tretinoin, the prescription strength alternative of retinol, is far superior and the benefits you will experience when you incorporate it to your skin care routine.
Table of content:
Uses | Benefits | Side effects | Differences | Which one gives better results? | How to get a tretinoin prescription? | FAQ
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Tretinoin (commercially known as Retin-A) and retinol are two of the most widely sought-after ingredients for skin care but in this article Dr. Anna Chacon, board-certified dermatologist, explains why tretinoin is a far superior alternative to retinol for those seeking to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and improve overall skin health.
What are retinol and tretinoin?
Tretinoin and retinol are both derivatives of Vitamin A used to treat skin conditions such as acne and signs of aging. Tretinoin is a prescription-strength retinoic acid used for more severe cases, while retinol is a milder, over-the-counter option that converts into retinoic acid once applied to the skin.
What are tretinoin and retinol used for?
- Treatment of acne: Tretinoin and retinol can both be used to reduce the formation of new acne breakouts and promote the healing of existing ones.
- Hyperpigmentation: Retinol and tretinoin are also used to fade dark spots and even out skin tone.
- Rough skin texture: Tretinoin and retinol can improve skin texture by promoting the growth of newer, smoother skin cells.
- Wrinkles and anti-aging: Tretinoin and retinol are also used to smooth wrinkles and fine lines by stimulating collagen production and improving skin elasticity1.
- Stretch marks: Clinical studies show that tretinoin can be used to improve the appearance of stretch marks and since both products are quite similar, retinol could also be used (to some extent) for this purpose2.
Benefits of tretinoin and retinol
- Increase collagen production
- Reduce fine lines and wrinkles
- Improve skin tone and skin texture
- Reduce hyperpigmentation, lightening dark spots
- Minimize pores3 4
Side effects of tretinoin and retinol
While retinol and tretinoin are very popular, some side effects are associated with their use. The side effects of Retinol are less intense than Tretinoin.
- Skin irritation and reddening
- Burning sensation
- Dry, flaky, and peeling skin
- Acne breakouts
- Sunburn
What is the difference between retinol and Retin-A?
The most significant distinction between tretinoin and retinol is tretinoin is a prescription medication that is believed to be 20 times more potent than retinol, which is sold over the counter5.
Retinol vs tretinoin: Which one gives better results?
Dr. Anna Chacon, board-certified dermatologist, says that tretinoin is considered a far superior alternative to retinol for those seeking to get rid of acne breakouts, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, lighten dark patches or smooth rough skin texture and there is numerous scientific evidence that supports this.
Why is tretinoin more efficient than retinol?
Immediate action
Tretinoin is a form of retinoic acid, which is the active form of vitamin A that can be utilized directly by the skin cells without needing conversion. This direct application allows it to act more quickly and efficiently in treating skin conditions.
Directly influences cellular activity
Tretinoin works at the cellular level by binding to retinoic acid receptors, which directly influence cell functions. This binding stimulates cell turnover and increases collagen production, leading to improved skin texture and reduced wrinkles and fine lines.
Efficacy in skin renewal
Due to its potent and direct action, tretinoin is much more effective at accelerating skin renewal. It helps shed the outer layer of the skin more rapidly and promotes the growth of new skin cells, which can clear up acne and rejuvenate the skin more effectively than retinol.
Clinical strength and regulation
As a prescription drug, tretinoin is much more potent than retinol, giving much more noticeable results in terms of reducing the number of acne breakouts, reducing fine lines and wrinkles, lightening dark spots and smoothing rough skin texture.
Research and evidence
There is substantial clinical evidence supporting the effectiveness of tretinoin in treating severe acne and visible signs of aging. Its efficacy is backed by decades of research, making it a trusted choice among dermatologists6.
All About Tretinoin
Who should use tretinoin?
According to Dr. Chacon, tretinoin is ideal for individuals with mild to moderate acne, or those looking to reduce wrinkles, sun damage, and hyperpigmentation, as well as improve overall skin texture. It is particularly effective for people who seek quick and noticeable improvements in their skin’s appearance and health. Tretinoin is also a good option for those who have tried retinol without satisfactory results and are looking for a more aggressive therapeutic approach.
How to get a tretinoin prescription?
You can have a photo-consultation with a board-certified dermatologist via Miiskin. This only takes a few minutes, and you will get your prescription in less than 2 business days. Consultations are usually around $59. You can pay and collect your tretinoin and the local pharmacy once you get your prescription.
Who should not use tretinoin?
- Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals: Both retinol and tretinoin should not be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding because they are considered teratogenic, which means they may cause birth defects7.
- Individuals using isotretinoin (Accutane) because it can increase the risk of hypervitaminosis A, leading to serious issues such as vision problems, increased intracranial pressure, high cholesterol, and inflammation of the liver, pancreas, or digestive tract8.
- People who have had recent skin procedures or have sunburned skin: It is recommended to avoid using retinol or tretinoin on recently treated or compromised skin. This includes laser treatments, chemical peels, or microdermabrasion. Additionally, it is important to avoid applying these ingredients to sunburned or excessively irritated skin, as it can exacerbate discomfort and potentially cause further damage.
Frequently asked questions about tretinoin and retinol
Is tretinoin the same as retinol?
Dr. Chacon says that although retinol and tretinoin have the same uses in skin care, tretinoin is a more potent retinoid and you need a doctor’s prescription to buy it.
Can you get a prescription for retinol?
Retinol is sold over the counter, however you can get a prescription for tretinoin which is 20 times more potent than retinol.
Is it better to use retinol or tretinoin?
Dr. Chacon says that tretinoin is a far better alternative to retinol if you want to experience visible results in your overall skin health in just a few weeks, besides generic tretinoin is also cheaper than most cosmetic products that include high concentrations of retinol.
Why is tretinoin prescription only?
Dr. Chacon says that tretinoin is prescription only due to its potency, however, getting a tretinoin prescription is a fairly simple process with Miiskin, and it will be given to you in most cases (with the exception if you want to become pregnant, are pregnant or nursing).
Is tretinoin 20 times stronger than retinol?
Dr. Chacon says that tretinoin is approximately 20 times more potent than retinol therefore you can achieve faster results9.
Is 0.05% tretinoin stronger than 1% retinol?
Yes, tretinoin 0.05% and tretinoin 0.025% are stronger and more effective than retinol 1% because tretinoin is a prescription-strength retinoid and retinol is over the counter.
Acne-Prone Skin Care
Can I switch from retinol to tretinoin?
Yes, absolutely! You can switch from retinol to tretinoin after your skin has gotten used to it, but you can also get started with tretinoin 0.025% even if you have never used a retinoid before by starting slowly.
Is tretinoin better for anti-aging than retinol?
Tretinoin can lead to more significant and faster results in anti-aging compared to retinol because it is more potent and it is clinically proven to reduce wrinkles, pigmentation and skin texture. While retinol is effective in improving signs of aging, the results may be slower and less dramatic compared to tretinoin.
Can I use vitamin C with tretinoin?
Dr. Chacon says that it is absolutely possible to use tretinoin and vitamin C together as they both stimulate collagen production. Always use vitamin C in the mornings (before you apply your face sunscreen) and tretinoin at night time since it is photosensitive.
Can people use moisturizers with tretinoin?
Yes, tretinoin should in fact be applied between two layers of moisturizing cream to minimize irritation.
Does insurance cover tretinoin?
Yes, generic tretinoin is covered by most private health insurance companies and even medicare. However, even if you don’t have insurance, the price of a generic tretinoin tube with 45 grams is around $30 and it can last up to 6 months, making it a much cheaper option than most retinol creams and serums.
What is cheaper tretinoin or retinol?
Generic tretinoin is much cheaper than most retinol creams and serums available in the market, which makes it a better option for those seeking cost-effective acne or anti-aging treatment. Branded formulations such as micronized tretinoin or Altreno, are on par with luxury cosmetic brands containing retinol.
Does tretinoin get rid of acne scars?
Tretinoin can help reduce the appearance of acne scars by promoting rapid cell turnover, which can help to fade and smooth out scarring over time. Tretinoin is especially effective in treating atrophic scars, which are indentations left in the skin from acne or other causes. By increasing collagen production and skin cell turnover, tretinoin can help to even out the skin’s texture and reduce the depth of indentations.
Does anything work better than tretinoin?
Tazarotene is often considered stronger than tretinoin for certain skin conditions due to its highly potent formulation. Like tretinoin, tazarotene is a retinoid, but it is selectively more effective at binding to specific retinoid receptors in the skin. This selectivity can make tazarotene more effective for treating psoriasis and certain types of acne, as well as for reducing fine lines and hyperpigmentation more rapidly. Its potent action can lead to quicker and more pronounced improvements, though it may also increase the risk of side effects such as irritation and dryness. For these reasons, tazarotene is sometimes favored for its efficacy in severe cases where robust treatment is needed.
What is the price of tretinoin?
A 20 gr tube of generic tretinoin may cost between $20 to $40*.
Altreno (improved tretinoin formulation) according to their official website, 20 gr tube is around $60 and a 45 gr tube is around $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.
Conclusion
Retinol and tretinoin are popular treatments for acne and combat anti-aging. The main difference between these two substances is that tretinoin is much stronger, so called prescription retinoid, requiring a prescription to buy it.
Ask your healthcare provider if tretinoin is the right solution for you. In the meantime, you can begin by adding some measures for acne self-care and getting started with retinol .25% and work your way up to retinol 1%.
Lee el articulo en Espanol Tretinoína vs. Retinol ¿Cuál es mejor?
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https://www.webmd.com/beauty/retinoid-gel-and-cream-treatments#
https://www.centerforsurgicaldermatology.com/benefits-of-retiniods/
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https://www.singlecare.com/drug-classes/retinoids
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https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/23293-retinol
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https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases/fetal-retinoid-syndrome/
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