What is Tretinoin cream?
Tretinoin (all-trans-retinic acid) is the oldest and best researched topical retinoid. It has been used for the treatment of acne since the 1960s and continues to be considered as a gold standard among the retinoids.
Unlike recent retinoides such as adapals, tretinoin is not light-stable and must be used in the evening. It is more effective, but also irritating than adapals. Many know it under the brand name Retin-A®.
Tretinoin is also used for anti-aging treatment and is one of the few agents with proven action against skin aging.
Active Ingredients & Mechanism of Action
Active ingredient: Tretinoin 0,025-0,1%
Tretinoin binds directly to retinoid receptors:
Active mechanism:
- Binding to RAR (Retinoid Acid Receptors)
- Activates specific genes
- Changes gene expression in skin cells
Effects on acne:
- Normalizes the maple in the follicles
- Prevents microcomedone formation
- Solves existing comedons on
- Has anti-inflammatory properties
Effects on the skin:
- Accelerates skin turnover
- Stimulates collagen production
- Dilutes the stratum corneum
- Thicken the epidermis
Important: Since tretinoin is light-sensitive and makes the skin more sensitive, it is essential for evening use and sun protection.
Who is it suitable for?
Tretinoin is suitable for:
- Acne vulgaris (all forms)
- Komedons-concrete acne
- Anti-aging treatment
- Hyperpigmentation
Advantages:
- Best data position among all retinoids
- Dual: Acne + Anti-Aging
- Long-term application possible
Restrictions:
- Stronger Irritation as Adapalen
- Non-stable (in the evening only)
- Not in pregnancy
- Longer time required
Available Dosages
Concentrations:
- 0.025% (low – for accusation)
- 0.05% (standard)
- 0.1% (high – for compatibility)
Depletion forms:
- Cream (for dry skin)
- Gel (for oily skin)
- Solution (for scalp/big surfaces)
Recommendation: Start with low concentration (0.025%) and increase in compatibility.
How to Take
Application (evening): 1. Clean face with mild cleanser Two. Wait 20-30 minutes (important in dry skin!) 3. Spread pea-sized quantity on the whole face 4. Save sensitive areas (eyelider, mouth angle) Five. Wait 20 minutes, then if necessary moisturizer
Reconciliation scheme:
- Week 1-2: Every 3rd day
- Week 3-4: Every 2nd day
- From week 5: Daily (if tolerated)
Important:
- Apply only in the evening (light sensitive)
- Morning sun protection LSF 30+
- Remove Retinol products
- No peeling, no other acids initially
Contraindications
Do not apply at:
- Pregnancy (teratogen!)
- Still time
- hypersensitivity to retinoides
- Akutem eczema, sunburn
- Perioral dermatitis, Rosacea
Prevention of pregnancy: Women of the age of birth must be safely prevented. Leave at least 1 month before child's request.
Preview at:
- Sensitive skin
- Atopic dermatitis
- Simultaneous application of other irritating products
Possible Side Effects
Very common (retinoid dermatitis):
- dry skin
- dandruff
- Roasting
- Burn, steal
- These reactions improve after 2-4 weeks
**
- Increased sun sensitivity
- First aggravation of acne
- Itching
Occasionally:
- Hyperpigmentation (in case of incorrect application)
- Contact dermatitis
Purging: In the first 4-8 weeks, the acne can get worse before it gets better. That's normal!
Interactions
Not combine with:
- Other retinoids
- benzoyl peroxide (time-replaced possible)
- AHA/BHA in high concentration (in the beginning)
- Sulfur, resorcinol
To be combined:
- benzoyl peroxide (morgens)
- azelaic acid
- Niacinamide
** Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) can inactivate tretinoin separately (morgent Vit C, tretinoin in the evening).
Frequently Asked Questions
Similar Medications
Is Tretinoin cream right for you?
A licensed doctor will review your information and issue a prescription if suitable. Discreet and secure.
Important Notice
This information does not replace medical advice. If you have questions about your health or the suitability of this medication, please consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Important Safety Information
This service operates under German pharmaceutical law (HWG). For risks and side effects, read the package leaflet and consult your doctor or pharmacist. All medications are dispensed from a licensed pharmacy in Germany.