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Home / Tretinoin

Tretinoin: a dermatologist’s guide for patients

This comprehensive dermatologist guide helps patients learn everything they need to know about tretinoin, including its benefits, side effects, uses, formulations, doses, and how to get started with it.

Dermatologist  Dr. Alpana Mohta
Medically reviewed by:
Dr. Alpana Mohta
Dermatologist

Table of Content:
What is tretinoin? | What is it used for? | Benefits | Side effects | Formulations | Concentrations | Getting used to it | Shelf life | Request a consultation | Tretinoin and Altreno | Tretinoin and isotretinoin | Tretinoin and adapalene | Tretinoin and tazarotene | Tretinoin and trifarotene | Tretinoin and retinol | Tretinoin with Winlevi | Tretinoin with azelaic acid | Is tretinoin over the counter?

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Our commitment to producing high-quality content:
The information presented in this article is based on scientific research and the professional advice of our Content Medical Reviewers, who are experts in the field of Dermatology. How we write our content →

What is tretinoin (Retin-A) cream?

Tretinoin, (also known as all-trans retinoic acid ATRA), is a topical prescription medication belonging to the retinoid class. Tretinoin is used to treat various skin conditions by regulating the process of skin cell growth and differentiation. In simpler terms, tretinoin help regulate how skin cells develop and mature which is beneficial to manage different skin problems1.  For example, tretinoin accelerates the turnover of aging skin cells while stimulating the generation of fresh ones. Consequently, it also helps unclogging pores, reducing inflammation, and improving the overall skin texture appearance.

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What is tretinoin used for? 

Treatment of acne

Tretinoin is commonly prescribed for treating mild to moderate acne, including both non-inflammatory (whiteheads and blackheads) and inflammatory (papules, pustules, and cysts) forms. It helps to prevent the formation of new acne lesions and promote the healing of existing ones2.

Hyperpigmentation

Tretinoin can be effective in treating hyperpigmentation issues such as melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. It helps to fade dark spots and even out skin tone3.

Rough skin texture

Tretinoin can improve the texture of the skin by encouraging the shedding of dead skin cells and promoting the growth of newer, smoother skin cells4.

Stretch marks

Clinical studies show that tretinoin can be used in some cases, to improve the appearance of stretch marks, although its effectiveness tends to vary from person to person5.

Wrinkles and anti-aging

Tretinoin can also be used for wrinkles and anti-aging. Its regular use can lead to the reduction of fine lines, wrinkles, and other signs of skin aging by stimulating collagen production and improving skin elasticity6.

tretinoin for anti aging

Tretinoin for wrinkles

Tretinoin is approved by the FDA for the treatment of wrinkles and photoaging. In this article we will explain how to safely use it to maximize its benefits and maintain a youthful appearance.

Benefits of tretinoin on the skin 

Tretinoin, a potent topical treatment, has several effects on the skin that help reduce the number of acne lesions and improve overall skin health. 

Tretinoin has proven comedolytic properties, which helps prevent the formation of comedones – the building blocks of acne. It regulates exfoliation, promoting healthy turnover of skin cells within hair follicles and preventing pore congestion7.

Tretinoin also helps prevent follicular plugging by inhibiting the activity of transglutaminase, an enzyme that contributes to the adhesion of skin cells.8.

Tretinoin also plays a role in the drainage and expulsion of excess sebum and acne-contributing bacteria. It cultivates an aerobic follicular environment, unsuitable for the growth of acne-causing bacteria9.

Anti-inflammatory effects

Tretinoin has mild anti-inflammatory properties. It can help decrease the inflammation associated with acne lesions, reducing redness and discomfort10.

Stimulation of collagen production

Tretinoin also stimulates the production of collagen and helps preserve existing collagen, by inhibiting collagenase, an enzyme that breaks down collagen fibers. This leads to smoother and more youthful-looking skin. As collagen levels increase, the skin becomes more supple, wrinkles and fine lines are reduced, and overall skin texture improves11.

Cell renewal 

Tretinoin accelerates the turnover of skin cells, a process known as desquamation and exfoliation. This involves shedding the outermost layer of dead skin cells and replacing them with new ones. By promoting this turnover, tretinoin helps to reveal fresher, younger skin cells, resulting in a smoother complexion and improved skin tone12.

Enhanced blood flow

Tretinoin’s action on the skin can lead to increased blood flow to the treated areas. This enhanced circulation brings more oxygen and nutrients to the skin cells, aiding in their renewal and overall skin health13.

Normalization of keratinization

Tretinoin helps regulate the process of keratinization14. This is a natural process that occurs in the body as a defense mechanism in which the outer layer of  the keratinized cells acts as a shield, protecting the body and helping it to retain moisture within the skin15. 

However, in conditions like acne, abnormal keratinization can lead to the formation of plugs within hair follicles, contributing to the development of acne breakouts. Tretinoin helps to normalize this process and prevent pore blockages16.

Reduction of pigmentation

Multiple clinical studies show that tretinoin contributes to the fading of hyperpigmentation, sunspots, and uneven skin tone17 18 .

Pore size reduction

Studies show that tretinoin can reduce the appearance of large pores due to the increased cell turnover. As dead skin cells are shed more efficiently, pores may appear smaller and less noticeable19.

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Potential side effects and precautions

Tretinoin, while effective in addressing various skin concerns, can also have some side effects, particularly when starting the treatment or if used improperly. It is important to be aware of these potential side effects and to use tretinoin under the guidance of a dermatologist. Here are some common side effects of tretinoin:

  • Skin irritation
  • Peeling and flaking
  • Increased sensitivity to sun
  • Dryness
  • Skin redness
  • Tingling or burning sensation
  • May cause hyperpigmentation in skin of color due to irritation20
  • Increased breakouts in the beginning of the treatment (commonly referred to as tretinoin purging)

It is recommended that women stop using tretinoin one month before planning a pregnancy, during pregnancy, and until they are nursing. This is due to the teratogenic effects it may cause to the developing fetus21.

Since tretinoin is photosensitive and causes sun sensitivity22, so it is important that it is applied during the night and that you use a sunscreen with SPF 50 during the course of the treatment to prevent sun damage. 

tretinoin uglies

Tretinoin purge

Have you been prescribed tretinoin? This is a dermatologist’s guide on what to expect while your skin gets used to this acne and ant-aging prescription medication.

Tretinoin formulations

Tretinoin comes in three different formulations: creams, gels and a lotion. They have different benefits and uses, and the right formulation greatly depends on your type of skin and your concern.

Tretinoin gel vs cream

Are you considering tretinoin cream or gel for acne or anti-aging? Explore distinctions and their effectiveness in addressing skin concerns.

Tretinoin concentrations

Tretinoin cream comes in different concentrations such as 0.01%, 0.02%, 0.025%, 0.05%, 0.08%, and 0.1%. The mildest concentration is 0.01% and the most potent concentration is 0.1%.

Different pharmaceutical companies produce different strengths, and not all brands offer all variations.

strengths of tretinoin

Tretinoin strengths

In this quick guide you will learn all you need to know about the different tretinoin strengths, formulations, when to increase your product’s concentration, and the right strength for acne and antiaging.

Getting used to tretinoin cream

Although tretinoin has benefits for the skin, it tends to be quite irritating, especially if you have never used it before. That is why it is essential that you only use it under medical supervision and that you follow your dermatologist’s guidance on when and how to use it, how to layer it, and the best strength for your needs.

applying tretinoin

How to use tretinoin

A dermatologist explains how to use tretinoin, including when to use it, how often, how much, and how to layer it.

Tretinoin shelf life and expiration date

Like all medications, tretinoin cream has an expiration date which is very different from the medicine’s shelf life after opening. The expiration date and the shelf life after opening in many cases is not the same, but which one should you follow?

when does tretinoin expire

Does tretinoin expire?

Dr. Mohta answers your most important questions about the tretinoin expiration date and its shelf life after opening.

Get tretinoin with an online dermatologist consultation 

To get tretinoin, you must have a doctor’s prescription. To get this, you can have a virtual photo consultation with an online dermatologist which only costs $59. It will take 1-2 days to get your answer and the prescription. Once you have the prescription, you can buy tretinoin at your local pharmacy or order it online.

Request a consultation for a tretinoin prescription

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Comparing tretinoin to other retinoids

Retinoids play a significant role in addressing various skin concerns. Among them, tretinoin cream stands out as a well-known and widely-used option. However, there are several retinoids and they all have unique benefits. As a general rule, you should not use two different retinoids at the same time because the benefits are quite similar and they could cause too much irritation on the skin. 

Tretinoin and Altreno

Tretinoin (also known by its brand name Retin-A) has been the gold standard for addressing acne, minimizing fine lines, and enhancing skin texture. However, AltrenoTM, a new and revolutionary tretinoin formulation has emerged with clear advantages due to its unique formulation which includes tretinoin, hyaluronic acid, collagen and glycerin. 

tretinoin-altreno

Altreno vs tretinoin (Retin A)

Discover why Altreno is far superior than the original tretinoin formulations. Compare the efficacy and relevance for acne or anti-aging. Find why Altreno is a better and more gentle treatment for your skin.

Lina Kristensen

Testimonial: Lina’s Story

Lina Kristensen was looking for the perfect anti-aging cream and she decided to try Altreno and her discovery led her to the Miiskin app.

Tretinoin and Isotretinoin

Tretinoin is a first generation retinoid approved for the treatment of mild to moderate acne, fine wrinkles, hyperpigmentation and rough skin23. Isotretinoin is a second generation retinoid that is taken by mouth. It is indicated in the treatment of severe acne that has not responded to other treatments24. Due to its teratogenic effect and serious side effects, it is a medication that is only prescribed as a last resource. 

tretinoin and isotretinoin

Isotretinoin vs tretinoin

Acne can be treated and prevented with retinoids like isotretinoin and tretinoin. Find out how these two medications differ from one another.

Tretinoin and adapalene

Adapalene is a third generation retinoid that is considered as effective as tretinoin for acne but less irritating25. The advantage of adapalene is that it can be used by people with sensitive skin and is priced similarly to tretinoin while some of the newer retinoids tend to be very expensive.

adapalene vs tretinoin

Adapalene vs Tretinoin

Learn about the differences and similarities between tretinoin and adapalene, as well as which of these two solutions is best for wrinkles and acne.

Tretinoin and tazarotene

Tazarotene is a third generation retinoid and is considered the most potent retinoid available in the market.  It is approved for the treatment of moderate to severe acne, photodamaged skin and psoriasis. Clinical studies have shown that tazarotene shows results faster than tretinoin in the treatment of acne, fine lines and wrinkles, and photodamaged skin26 27. 

tretinoin vs tazarotene

Tazarotene vs tretinoin

Tazarotene and tretinoin are two common prescription drugs used to treat wrinkles and acne. Although relatively similar, one is stronger than the other one showing faster results but it also irritates the skin a bit more.

Tretinoin and trifarotene 

Trifarotene is a fourth generation retinoid approved by the FDA for the treatment of acne.  An important difference from tretinoin is that it is less irritating on the skin and has less side effects which is why it is one of the few retinoids that can be used by patients as young as 9 years of age28. In contrast, most retinoids should only be used by patients who are at least 12 years of age.   

Aklief (trifarotene) vs tretinoin

Struggling with acne and hyperpigmentation? Relief is possible. Explore powerful remedies like Aklief and tretinoin. Discover the better choice for treating acne effectively.

Tretinoin and retinol 

Retinol, is a very popular, over the counter retinoid available in the market. Since it is much less potent than tretinoin and it has milder side-effects it is widely used in many skin care products. 

retinol vs tretinoin

Tretinoin vs Retinol

Retinol and Tretinoin are both Vitamin A derivatives used for anti-aging and combat acne breakouts. Tretinoin needs a prescription, whereas Retinol is easily accessable.

Request a tretinoin prescription

Request prescription Start consultation Start consultation

Combining tretinoin with other medications

Acne is often treated with a combination of two or more medications at the same time, which is commonly referred to as “combination treatment.” 

Combination therapy aims to address multiple factors that contribute to acne development, such as excess oil production, bacterial growth, inflammation, and abnormal skin cell shedding.

By using different medications that target these various factors, dermatologists can often achieve better and more comprehensive results than by using a single treatment alone. 

For example, a common approach might involve using a topical retinoid (like tretinoin cream) alongside a topical antibiotic or benzoyl peroxide to target both acne-causing bacteria and skin cell turnover. Combination therapy can lead to improved efficacy, faster results, and reduced potential for antibiotic resistance, which can occur when antibiotics are used as a monotherapy. 

Tretinoin with Winlevi®

Using Winlevi together with tretinoin is an effective way to combat acne since they complement each other. Winlevi is an androgen receptor inhibitor which regulates sebum production and inflammation29 while tretinoin unclogs pores and reduces the number of new and existing acne breakouts.

Winlevi and tretinoin

Winlevi and tretinoin are commonly used medications for the treatment of acne. Discover how they work together, their side effects, and their effectiveness to get clearer skin.

Tretinoin with spironolactone

Using spironolactone together with tretinoin is an effective and affordable way to combat hormonal acne long-term. Oral spironolactone is a is potassium-sparing diuretic used off-label in the treatment of hormonal acne and female pattern baldness.

tretinoin and spironolactone

Tretinoin and spironolactone

Spironolactone and tretinoin are frequently used together to treat hormonal acne. Discover how this combination treatment can give you clearer skin.

Tretinoin with azelaic acid

The combination of azelaic acid with tretinoin is a powerful acne treatment since they complement each other quite well.  These two medications address some of the same causes of acne such as decreasing sebum production, act as anti-keratinizing agents, reduce hyperpigmentation, inflammation and unclog pores. On the other hand, azelaic acid also has antimicrobial properties and targets some hormonal causes similar to Winlevi. 

tretinoin and azelaic acid -

Azelaic acid and tretinoin

Combining Azelaic Acid with Tretinoin offers potent acne-fighting power. Learn how these ingredients work synergistically to target blemishes, reduce inflammation, and promote clearer, healthier skin.

Is tretinoin sold without a prescription?

Tretinoin cannot be purchased without a prescription. To get tretinoin, you must get a prescription from a healthcare professional.

tretinoin otc

Tretinoin over the counter

Tretinoin boosts collagen synthesis and cell renewal to give skin a healthier appearance, but can it be bought over-the-counter? Read on to learn more!

Conclusion

This comprehensive guide on tretinoin cream can serve you as a valuable resource if you want to improve your skin health with the guidance of your online dermatologist. 

By covering various aspects of tretinoin, from its definition and diverse applications to its benefits, proper usage guidelines and concentration variations, you will be better equipped with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about your dermatology treatment.

Article References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557478
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3225141/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2699641
https://www.jwatch.org/jd199310010000004/1993/10/01/tretinoin-restores-collagen-formation-photoaged
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1729619/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8479462/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8776661/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK582989/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557478/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11843231/
https://www.jaad.org/article/S0190-9622(03)03447-9/fulltext
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15203997/
https://www.winlevi-hcp.com/androgen-sebum-pathway

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