Retin-A - Topical Medication for Acne and Skin Health

Retin-A is a topical medication that contains tretinoin, a form of vitamin A. It is commonly used to treat acne, improve skin texture, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Category
Medication
Where to get
Available by prescription from dermatologists
Applicable for
Prepared by Shruti Sahoo, reviewed by Dr. Eugene Smith

Retin-A FAQ


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What is Retin-A?

Retin-A (the brand name for tretinoin or retinoic acid) was the very first prescription-strength retinoid on the market, and it’s still one of the most widely prescribed retinoids. Tretinoin was initially FDA approved in the 1970s as an acne treatment.

What is Retin A tretinoin used for?

Last updated on Feb 5, 2024. What is Retin-A? Retin-A is a form of vitamin A that helps the skin renew itself. The Retin-A and Avita brands of tretinoin are used to treat acne. The Renova brand of tretinoin is used to reduce the appearance of fine wrinkles and mottled skin discoloration, and to make rough facial skin feel smoother.

What is the difference between retinol s & Retin A?

Retinol s are a weaker vitamin A derivative that can be purchased OTC without a prescription. They’re gentler on the skin than retinoids, but also don’t deliver the same dramatic results. Retin-A is a specific brand of topical retinoid products that contain the active ingredient tretinoin. Retin-A requires a prescription from your dermatologist.

What are retinoids used for?

Retinoids are derived from vitamin A. They can make skin cells grow and function more effectively. Tretinoin is one of the strongest and most effective topical retinoids used to treat acne and skin aging. There are several different band names of tretinoin on the market. All are used on the skin.

Does Retin-A (tretinoin) work for acne?

Retin-A ( tretinoin) is a prescription drug that is applied topically, or to the skin, to treat acne. It can be effective in treating inflammatory acne, which can cause swelling and pimples deep under the skin. It also works especially well on comedonal acne, which is the type that involves blackheads or whiteheads.

What are the ingredients in Retin A cream?

RETIN-A Cream, 0.1%, 0.05%, and 0.025%: store below 80°F. Retin-A is a trademark of Bausch Health Companies Inc. or its affiliates. Each gram contains: Tretinoin 0.025%, stearic acid, isopropyl myristate, polyoxyl 40 stearate, stearyl alcohol, xanthan gum, sorbic acid, butylated hydroxytoluene, and purified water. Usual Dosage: See package insert.

Retin-A References

If you want to know more about Retin-A, consider exploring links below:

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