Tretinoin
TYPE OF INGREDIENT
Retinoid
COMMONLY FOUND IN
Prescription cream or gel
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF TRETINOIN?
Tretinoin is an effective treatment for both inflammatory and comedonal acne. Because tretinoin increases cell turnover, it helps exfoliate the outermost layer of the skin and helps improve uneven skin tone. In addition, tretinoin increases collagen production in the skin, thereby improving fine lines and wrinkles. Tretinoin also improves the signs of skin aging caused by photodamage.
WHAT IS TRETINOIN?
Tretinoin is a type of retinoid, which is a derivative of vitamin A. Tretinoin is a synthetic version of vitamin A, which is only available with a prescription in the United States.
IS TRETINOIN SAFE FOR ALL SKIN TYPES AND TONES?
Tretinoin is commonly associated with skin irritation, which may be more pronounced in those with very sensitive, eczema-prone or rosacea-prone skin types.
CONTRAINDICATIONS
Tretinoin use is contraindicated in pregnancy.
Sources:
- Leyden, J., Stein-Gold, L. & Weiss, J. Why Topical Retinoids Are Mainstay of Therapy for Acne. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb) 7, 293–304 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s13555-017-0185-2
- Griffiths CE, Russman AN, Majmudar G, Singer RS, Hamilton TA, Voorhees JJ. Restoration of collagen formation in photodamaged human skin by tretinoin (retinoic acid). N Engl J Med. 1993 Aug 19;329(8):530-5. doi: 10.1056/NEJM199308193290803. PMID: 8336752.
- Baldwin HE, Nighland M, Kendall C, Mays DA, Grossman R, Newburger J. 40 years of topical tretinoin use in review. J Drugs Dermatol. 2013 Jun 1;12(6):638-42. PMID: 23839179.
- Jain S. Topical tretinoin or adapalene in acne vulgaris: an overview. J Dermatolog Treat. 2004 Jul;15(4):200-7. doi: 10.1080/09546630410033006. PMID: 15764031.
