Tretinoin - Uses, Side Effects, and Precautions

Tretinoin is a topical retinoid medication derived from vitamin A, commonly used in dermatology to treat acne, reduce wrinkles, and improve the skin's texture and tone.

Tretinoin FAQ

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What is tretinoin cream used for?

Tretinoin for acne helps reduce the number and severity of pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, and also helps to improve dark spots (hyperpigmentation). Tretinoin cream for skin aging may help improve fine wrinkling, hyperpigmentation, roughness, and epidermal thickness.

Can tretinoin cause side effects?

While clinical studies show that tretinoin is an effective treatment for acne and sun-damaged skin, it can trigger side effects, including: However, people can discuss the risks and benefits of the medication with their doctors. Retinol and adapalene are two milder OTC retinoids that are available.

How does tretinoin work?

It’s used mainly to treat acne, sun-damaged skin, and fine wrinkles. It may sound counterintuitive, but tretinoin works by irritating the skin. Tretinoin is able to speed up the life cycle of skin cells. It makes them divide faster and die faster, so newer, healthier cells can take their place.

What is tretinoin based acne treatment?

Tretinoin is a synthetic retinoid derived from vitamin A. People commonly use it to treat acne, reduce wrinkles, and improve the skin’s texture and appearance. The medication is available as a topical cream or gel, as well as an oral tablet. Tretinoin-based acne treatments also require a doctor’s prescription.

Does tretinoin really work?

Tretinoin works best when used within a skin care program that includes protecting the treated skin from the sun. However, it does not completely or permanently erase these skin problems or greatly improve more obvious changes in the skin, such as deep wrinkles caused by the sun or the natural aging process.

What is tretinoin used for?

Tretinoin is used to produce remission (a decrease or disappearance of signs and symptoms of cancer) of APL, but other medications must be used after treatment with tretinoin to prevent the cancer from returning. Tretinoin is in a class of medications called retinoids.

What is tretinoin cream for skin aging?

Tretinoin cream for skin aging may help improve fine wrinkling, hyperpigmentation, roughness, and epidermal thickness. When tretinoin is used for photoaging of the skin it should be used along with other treatments, comprehensive skin care, and avoiding sun damage. Tretinoin topical became an FDA-approved medicine on October 20, 1971.

Can tretinoin be used as a topical skin treatment?

Tretinoin as a topical skin treatment isn’t new. It’s been used to treat mild to moderate acne for almost 50 years. Tretinoin combination products sometimes contain antibacterial ingredients for treatment of acne. Research has shown that tretinoin is helpful in: