Tretinoin
Prescription-strength retinoid with the most robust clinical evidence base for photoaging, acne, and dyschromia. The molecule against which all other retinoids are benchmarked.
Directly binds RAR receptors without conversion. Accelerates epidermal turnover, normalises keratinocyte cohesion in the pilosebaceous unit, and stimulates dermal collagen via fibroblast activation.
- Research suggests wrinkle reduction
- May support clearer comedonal and inflammatory acne
- May help reduce the appearance of photoaging
- May help fade melasma
- May improve the appearance of skin elasticity
What the evidence supports.
- Normal
- Oily
- Combination
- Pregnant
- Breastfeeding
- Eczema
- Active rosacea flare
Later treatment or moisturiser step.
Concentration range in well-formulated products: 0.025%–0.1%
Year-round under prescriber supervision; reinforce SPF and barrier care in summer.
Endogenous metabolite of dietary Vitamin A (retinyl esters from animal sources).
- Persistent acne
- Coarse photodamage
- Advanced rhytides
Buffer with moisturiser pre- and post-application during the first 6 weeks. Pause 5–7 days before peels or laser.
Tretinoin is a regulated medication. Use only under the guidance of a licensed physician or dermatologist. The information here is educational, Skinlumis does not dispense prescriptions or provide medical advice.
- Kligman et al. 1986, first landmark trial showing photoaging reversal
- Weiss et al. 1988, confirmed sustained collagen-I upregulation over 12 months
The research behind Tretinoin.
Every claim on this page traces to published research. Findings below are drawn from randomized trials and systematic reviews, each links to the study on PubMed.
American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2020
Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery, 2020
Journal of Advanced Research, 2015
Dermato-Endocrinology, 2011
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1 study from the Intelligence Vault that discuss Tretinoin.
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