Get a tretinoin prescription online
Response time: 1-2 working days
- Board-certified dermatologists
- No medication susbcription
- Generic or personalized medication with up to 5 active ingredients
Table of Content:
What is tretinoin? | What is tretinoin used for? | Tretinoin brand names | How to get tretinoin? | How to get a prescription for tretinoin online? | How does tretinoin work? | Benefits | Strengths | Warnings and precautions | Side effects | The tretinoin purge | How to use tretinoin? | Tretinoin and other medications |Tretinoin prescription request faq
Content last updated: October 2025
What is tretinoin?
Tretinoin (generic version of Retin-A) is a topical prescription medication widely used by dermatologists to treat acne, hyperpigmentation, wrinkles and sun damage1.
Tretinoin works by accelerating the lifecycle of skin cells and boosting new collagen formation. It belongs to a family of synthetic and natural compounds called retinoids that are derived from Vitamin A2.
What is tretinoin cream or gel used for?
Tretinoin is approved by the FDA for the treatment of:
Acne and acne scars
Facial wrinkles
Skin roughness
Hyperpigmentation3
Brand names of tretinoin gels or creams
- Retin – A
- Altreno
- Atralin
- Avita
- Refissa
- Renova
- Tretin – X
- Retin – A micro
Benefits of tretinoin
Stimulates collagen for firmer skin
Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
Smooths skin texture and tone
Fades dark spots and discoloration
Unclogs pores and reduces breakouts
Prevents future acne formation
Get a customized skincare formula
Some patients prefer customized formulas to simplify their skincare routines. Miiskin connects you with board-certified dermatologists who can prescribe personalized compounded treatments, tailored with up to 5 active ingredients.
During your consultation, your dermatologist may discuss various ingredient options — such as tretinoin, hydroquinone, niacinamide, or others — depending on your individual treatment plan.
No subscriptions. No hidden fees. Just pay for the care and medication you need—only when you need it.
Disclaimer: Compounded medications are not reviewed by the FDA for safety or efficacy.
How to get tretinoin online?
How to get a tretinoin prescription?
To get a tretinoin prescription, you can have an online consultation with a board-certified dermatologist through Miiskin.
How much does it cost to get a tretinoin prescription online?
The consultation fee with an online dermatologist via Miiskin is around $59 for first-time patients and $39 for prescription renewals. You need to fill in a questionnaire, upload photos of your skin and in 1-2 you will get your prescription if its adequate and safe for you.
How to get a tretinoin then?
After you receive your prescription, you can buy it at a local pharmacy or order it via an online pharmacy and it will be delivered to your door.
* A first-time tretinoin prescription from a dermatologist typically lasts 3–6 months, giving your dermatologist the chance to monitor your skin’s progress and make any needed adjustments. Prescriptions are provided only if medically appropriate, so you’ll know it’s tailored just for you! Be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions for the best results. Prices, as of 07.11.2024, can vary by pharmacy, coupon usage, and application amount. Follow-ups ($25–$39) may be recommended to check in on your progress and renew or adjust any prescriptions.
Get an online tretinoin prescription via Miiskin
- Select “Start consultation” to sign up.
- Fill out the consultation form and take photos of your skin.
- An independent dermatologist will prescribe tretinoin to you, if medically appropriate.
- Buy tretinoin affordably from the pharmacy of your choice.
How to get a prescription for tretinoin?
Miiskin connects with a board-certified, online dermatologist. After reviewing your case, if the dermatologist determines that tretinoin is safe and appropriate for you, they will issue your prescription to the pharmacy of your choosing.
Tretinoin explained
How does tretinoin work?
Tretinoin stimulates cell renewal in the epidermis, enhancing the cell layer, reducing pigmentation and normalizing sun-damaged cells4.
Tretinoin also works in the dermis promoting the production of collagen and elastin thickening the dermal layer and making the skin appear more plump5.
According to multiple research, tretinoin gels and creams are a safe and effective therapeutic modality for the long-term treatment of acne and photoaging.6 78
Most common tretinoin strengths prescribed
Tretinoin Cream 0.025%
Tretinoin cream at 0.025% concentration is a gentler option, often recommended for patients new to tretinoin or those with sensitive skin. Its lower strength allows for a gradual introduction to tretinoin, reducing the chance of irritation. It’s commonly used for mild concerns such as fine lines, uneven skin tone, and mild acne.
Tretinoin Cream 0.05%
Tretinoin cream 0.05% works faster and produces more visible results than the 0.025% cream. It’s a moderate-strength option suitable for addressing more prominent signs of aging, moderate acne, and persistent hyperpigmentation. Although it carries a higher risk of side effects like dryness, following your doctor’s guidance can help manage any reactions and maximize its effectiveness.
Tretinoin Cream 0.1%
Tretinoin cream 0.1% is considered high-strength and is typically reserved for more intense treatment needs. It is often recommended for individuals with more severe skin concerns, such as deep wrinkles, pronounced signs of aging, or stubborn acne that requires stronger intervention.
Warnings, side effects and purging
Warning and precautions when using tretinoin creams or gels
This medication should only be used under medical supervision and it is advised that women use effective contraception when using tretinoin.
Tretinoin is considered teratogenic, and therefore it cannot be used by women who want to become pregnant, are pregnant, or are breastfeeding because it may cause serious harm to the fetus13 14.
Tretinoin is likely to make your skin more sensitive to sunlight so you should apply sunscreen with SPF 50 factor every morning while using this product and reapply every two hours when outdoors.
Tretinoin may cause skin irritation when you first start using it, follow the precise instructions of your healthcare provider to minimize unwanted side effects.
Do not combine tretinoin with other acne or pigmentation medications, unless indicated by your doctor.
Side effects of tretinoin
- Redness
- Peeling
- Itching
- Burning/Stinging
- Dryness15
What is the tretinoin purge?
The tretinoin purge (also known as tretinoin uglies) is a very common skin reaction that occurs when a patient uses tretinoin for the first time.
How to get started once tretinoin is prescribed?
You should always follow the precise instructions of your healthcare provider, because your treatment plan will depend on your skin condition and your skin type. However, as a general rule, if you have never used tretinoin, here is a good way to start.
- First 2 to 4 weeks:
Apply tretinoin .025% two nights per week in the evenings - Following 2 weeks:
Apply tretinoin every other night - After 6 to 8 weeks of use:
If your skin tolerates the product well, apply the product every night
It is also important to find a balance that is right for you. Your skin may not tolerate the application of tretinoin every day even after weeks of use and you may notice that your skin improves by applying tretinoin every other day instead of daily.
How to use Tretinoin correctly
Watch this 2-minute video where doctor Anna Chacon, board-certified dermatologist in the Miiskin network, explains how to use tretinoin the proper way to minimize the potential of irritation.
Click to read video transcript
How to Use Tretinoin
– Start with a gentle cleanser.
– Wash your face with lukewarm water and pat dry with a soft towel.
– Always make sure your skin is completely dry before applying tretinoin — wait about 15 to 20 minutes. This helps minimize irritation.
– Before applying tretinoin, always start with a gentle, non-comedogenic moisturizer. This helps protect your skin barrier and reduces dryness and peeling.
– Next, squeeze out a pea-sized amount — that’s really all you need for your entire face. Dot the tretinoin across your forehead, both cheeks, nose, and chin. Then gently spread it evenly over your entire face.
– Avoid the corners of your mouth, the creases around your nose, and the delicate skin around your eyes — these areas are more prone to irritation.
– Apply an additional layer of moisturizer across the face and neck. This is optional but recommended, especially if you have sensitive skin. You can also use a hyaluronic serum instead of a moisturizing cream.
– Remember, tretinoin takes time to work. You may not see results for several weeks, but consistency is key.
– Tretinoin requires a prescription from a dermatologist. If you are interested in getting a personalized tretinoin formula — with up to three additional ingredients for your skin — I am here to help.
Click the link to start your consultation today.
What ingredients can be safely
combined with tretinoin?
Sunscreen SPF 50
Hyaluronic acid
Non-greasy moisturizer
Azelaic acid
Niacinamide
Peptides
Ceramides
What ingredients should not be combined with tretinoin?
- Benzoyl peroxide*
- Glycolic acid*
- Lactic acid*
- Salicylic acid*
- Retinol
- Tazarotene
- Trifarotene
- Adapalene
*Unless instructed by a dermatologist
Provider & Prescription Information
Miiskin connects patients with independent dermatologists who provide care through their own private practices. Miiskin does not employ dermatologists and does not sell or distribute medications. Any prescriptions issued by the dermatologists can be filled at third-party pharmacies of the patient’s choice.
Start a virtual consultation to request Tretinoin
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References:
1https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557478/
2https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9112391/
3https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557478/
4https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557478/
5https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9112391/
6https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9112391/
7https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamadermatology/article-abstract/553009
8https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5574737/
9https://link.springer.com/article/10.2165/00002512-199506060-00008
10https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3225141/
11https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16045694/
12https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3225141/
13https://rarediseases.info.nih.gov/diseases/517/fetal-retinoid-syndrome
14https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26897386/
15https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9112391/
