Topical tretinoin is a prescription medication that is prescribed to treat acne, fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, or rough skin caused by sun exposure.

Topical tretinoin comes in the form of a medicated cream and is available under various brand names. It is only available via prescription, which means a licensed health care provider must authorize its use.

Topical tretinoin belongs to a classification of medications known as retinoids. These medications work by stimulating the production of new skin cells. This prevents hair follicles and pores from clogging. It can also help reduce the appearance of acne, fine lines, and wrinkles by exfoliating the top layer of skin, which can be particularly effective in treating conditions like acne vulgaris.

Additionally, retinoids may improve collagen production, enhancing skin texture and elasticity. Regular and consistent use of topical retinoids can lead to smoother, clearer, and more youthful-looking skin over time.

Tretinoin has been shown to cause some mild side effects. If these adverse effects do not go away within a few days, talk to your health care provider.

Mild side effects reported from topical tretinoin use include:

• Burning, itching, or irritation of the skin
  
• Scaling or redness of the skin
  
• Changes in skin color (lightening or darkening)
  
• Unusually dry skin
  
• Unusually warm skin
  
  

More severe side effects include:

• Itching
  
• Skin rash
  
• Hives
  
• Pain around the affected area
  
  

Seek medical attention immediately if you notice any of these symptoms. These are signs of a severe adverse reaction or overdose requiring medical treatment.

As with all prescription medications, inform your prescribing doctor about any medical conditions you have and any medications and supplements you are currently taking before starting treatment with topical tretinoin. This drug can interact with other medicines and substances, leading to potentially serious side effects.

Tell your doctor if you are taking:

Topical Exfoliants: Combining topical tretinoin with other skin exfoliants, such as alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), can increase skin sensitivity and irritation. It is advisable to use them cautiously and consult a dermatologist for guidance on combining such products.

Astringents or Abrasive Cleansers: Harsh astringents or abrasive cleansers may exacerbate skin irritation when used concurrently with topical tretinoin. Using gentle, non-irritating skincare products while using tretinoin is generally recommended.

Sulfur-Based Products: Sulfur-based products, often used for acne treatment, may interact with tretinoin by increasing skin dryness and irritation when used together. Consult with a healthcare provider or dermatologist to determine the best combination for your skincare routine.

Photosensitizing Medications: Tretinoin may increase skin sensitivity to UV radiation. When using tretinoin, apply sunscreen regularly and avoid other photosensitizing medications or substances, such as certain antibiotics or herbal remedies, which can heighten the risk of sunburn or skin damage.

This is not a complete list of all drugs that interact with topical tretinoin. Make a comprehensive list of all medicines and supplements that you take before starting treatment with this drug.

You should also tell your health care provider about any medical conditions you manage.

Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant before starting treatment with tretinoin. If you become pregnant while taking this medication, stop taking it and inform your health care provider immediately.

Topical tretinoin is usually supplied as a cream or gel. The prescribed dosage varies depending on the patient's age and the severity of the condition requiring treatment.

Generally, topical tretinoin is applied to the affected skin once a day.

Before using topical tretinoin, wash your face with a gentle cleanser and warm water. Wait for 20 or 30 minutes to ensure that your face is dry. When applying the medication, use a small amount of medicine to cover the affected area lightly. Wash your hands after application to ensure no medication remains on your fingers.

Do not discontinue or increase your topical tretinoin usage without consulting your doctor first. Take the medication exactly as prescribed, and inform your doctor if you begin to experience any side effects while taking the medication.

Tretinoin should be stored in the container it’s supplied in. Keep these containers at room temperature, away from excess heat or moisture.

Do not freeze this medication.

Keep all medicines out of sight and out of the reach of children. Ensure that the caps of all medicine bottles are tightly closed and locked (if applicable).

Topical tretinoin is currently only available via prescription. This means that a licensed health care provider must authorize the use of this drug.

Looking for a prescription? Providers on Sesame can write you a prescription during a virtual or in-person visit. You can arrange for same-day pickup at your pharmacy, depending on the medication. Book an online consultation with a licensed provider on Sesame today to determine whether or not tretinoin might be right for you.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your health care provider. Sesame cannot guarantee that you will be provided a prescription after a video or in-person appointment. Providers on Sesame are unable to prescribe controlled substances. For more information about controlled substances, check out the Drug Enforcement Agency’s scheduling guidelines here.

Providers on Sesame can write a prescription for topical tretinoin to be picked up near you—often within the same day. Don’t wait to get your prescription filled. Talk to a provider on Sesame and get your prescription ordered right away for fast and convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your doctor.

Topical tretinoin is a generic drug. It’s available in its generic form or under brand names like:

• Altreno
  
• Atralin
  
• Avita
  
• Refissa
  
• Renova
  
• Retin-A