Tretinoin
Topical retinoid all-trans-retinoic acid. Acne, photoaging, hyperpigmentation treatment. Dermatological gold standard.
Related comparisons
Tretinoin vs Tazarotene vs Azelaic acidWHAT IS TRETINOIN?
Detailed overview
Tretinoin (all-trans-retinoic acid) is the first topical retinoid (Ortho Retin-A, FDA 1971), dermatological standard in acneology + anti-aging. Retinoid receptor (RAR) activation normalizes follicular keratinization (acne mechanism), accelerates collagen synthesis (anti-aging), and reduces melanin pigmentation (hyperpigmentation). The most common strengths: 0.025%, 0.05%, 0.1% cream or gel. Compared with isotretinoin it is topical – non-systemic, pregnancy risk SIGNIFICANTLY LOWER, but avoid in childbearing-age women. Long-term anti-aging evidence: Kligman 1986 PMID 3548421, the best-documented topical treatment for photoaging.
ATC code
D10AD01
Prescription status
Prescription only (Rx), dermatologist supervision
Mechanism of action
RAR-α/β/γ retinoid receptor agonist (all-trans-retinoic acid)
Half-life
Topical, minimal systemic absorption
Onset of action
8-12 weeks (acne), 4-6 months (anti-aging)
Data console
Lab data
Safety
Side effects, stop signs, contraindications
Side effects · 6
- Skin irritation: redness, burning-stinging, dryness and peeling, mainly in the first weeks of treatment (retinization phase).
- Increased photosensitivity (phototoxicity) and tendency to sunburn, so daily SPF 30+ sun protection is mandatory.
- Initial acne flare-up (purging) in the first 2–4 weeks before the skin improves.
- Transient hyper- or hypopigmentation, plus a tight, sensitive feeling on the treated area.
- Contact dermatitis, severe peeling or blistering with excessive amounts or too-frequent application.
- On eczematous, sunburned or broken skin: heightened irritation, stinging and dryness.
Contraindications · 3
- Pregnancy (retinoid)
- Broken/sunburned skin
- Hypersensitivity
Related Hair & Skin
Same therapeutic category
Studies
Related research and clinical findings
An Updated Review of Topical Tretinoin in Dermatology: From Acne and Photoaging to Skin Cancer.
Balado-Simó P, Morgado-Carrasco D, Gómez-Armayones S
Management of Acne Vulgaris: A Review.
Eichenfield DZ, Sprague J, Eichenfield LF
Efficacy and Safety of Generic Fluocinolone Acetonide, Hydroquinone, and Tretinoin Cream Compared With TRI-LUMA for the Treatment of Melasma.
Hu H, Zhou P, Yao H
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Educational hair and skin info from official sources (PubMed, FDA, EMA). Does NOT replace medical consultation. Talk to a dermatologist!
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