Tretinoin and retinol are related but not the same. Both are forms of vitamin A and belong to a class of medications called retinoids, but tretinoin is the prescription-strength, active form that works directly on skin cells.

Retinol is an over-the-counter vitamin A derivative that the skin first converts into tretinoin (all-trans-retinoic acid), the active form. Because of this extra step, retinol is less potent and works more gradually than prescription-strength tretinoin as an acne or anti-aging treatment.

Before starting tretinoin, it’s important to let your healthcare provider know about your overall health and any medications, supplements, or skincare products you currently use. Certain treatments, like exfoliating acids, harsh cleansers, or sulfur-based acne products, can increase irritation when combined with tretinoin.

Tretinoin also makes your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Protect your skin by applying sunscreen daily and avoiding tanning beds or prolonged sun exposure. If you’re taking other medications or herbal remedies that may increase photosensitivity, discuss these with your provider before starting tretinoin.

Women who are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding should avoid tretinoin. Always follow your provider’s instructions for use, and report any unusual reactions promptly. Taking these precautions helps ensure safe, effective treatment and better results for your skin.

Tretinoin is not available over the counter. All tretinoin products, including the generic form of Retin-A, require a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. While some OTC products contain retinol or milder vitamin A derivatives, these are not the same as tretinoin and are less potent in treating acne, fine lines, or sun damage.

You can get same-day acne treatment online with Sesame. A licensed provider can evaluate your skin and, if appropriate, prescribe tretinoin or other prescription retinoids for pickup at a local pharmacy or delivery to your home.

Because tretinoin is prescription-only, you can obtain a prescription through a licensed healthcare provider, either in person or via a telehealth service like Sesame.

A provider on Sesame can evaluate your skin and determine if tretinoin or any prescription skincare is appropriate, then send your prescription to a pharmacy of your choice for purchase. Your provider can also handle refills, often without additional consultations. All prescriptions are at the discretion of your doctor.

Topical tretinoin is the generic name for the active ingredient in a class of prescription retinoid creams and gels. While the medication is the same, it can be sold under several brand names in the U.S., including Altreno, Atralin, Avita, Retin‑A, and Retin‑A Micro.

Each of these contains tretinoin as the active ingredient, but they can differ in their formulation, strengths, and delivery systems.