Retin-A Cream (Tretinoin)

Retin-A Cream (Tretinoin) Medication Information

Uses

Retin-A Cream is a prescription skin cream used to treat acne.  Retin-A Cream contains the active ingredient tretinoin and belongs to the retinoid drug class.  Retinoids are chemically similar to vitamin A and help support skin health.

Acne is a common condition that happens when skin pores become clogged.  Acne breakouts (pimples or zits) on the face and body are most common in adolescence but can continue into adulthood. 

Retin-A Cream may also be prescribed off-label (non-FDA-approved uses) to help reduce the appearance of fine lines (wrinkles), acne scars, or dark spots.

Dosage

Retin-A Cream comes in two sizes (20 gram and 45 gram tubes) and contains tretinoin in one of three different strengths: 

• 0.1%
• 0.05%
• 0.025%  

Apply Retin-A Cream as directed by your physician.  Retin-A Cream is usually prescribed once daily before bedtime.  For sensitive skin, your doctor may suggest applying Retin-A every other night.  

First, wash your face with mild soap and gently pat dry.  Wait 20 to 30 minutes before applying Retin-A Cream.  Skin must be completely dry to minimize possible irritation.

Precautions

Retin-A cream may not be safe for everyone with acne.  Let your doctor know before using if you have any of the following conditions:

• Eczema
• Pregnant or plan to become pregnant
• Breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed  

Side Effects

Retin-A Cream can cause side effects related to skin irritation:

• Blisters
• Puffiness
• Redness
• Temporary warmth or slight stinging
• Sunlight sensitivity

If any of these side effects occur and are bothersome, talk with your doctor.  They may advise you to temporarily stop using Retin-A until your skin heals, or prescribe a different strength or less frequent use. 

Interactions

Using certain skin products may increase the risk of skin irritation.  You shouldn’t use the following skin products at all while using Retin-A Cream:

• Astringents
• Resorcinol
• Salicylic acid
• Sulfur
• Any cleanser or product with a strong drying effect

Storage

Store Retin-A Cream at room temperature (77°F or 25°C).

Pharmacists Tips

• Squeeze about a half-inch or less of cream onto the fingertip. This should be enough for your whole face. The cream should become invisible almost immediately. If not, you are using too much. 
• Keep Retin-A Cream away from the corners of the nose, mouth, and eyes. Avoid open wounds.
• Retin-A Cream can make your skin more sensitive to the sun.  You will need to take extra precautions in the sun, avoid artificial sunlight, and apply sunscreen every day.  If you get sunburned, stop Retin-A Cream treatment until your skin has healed.

Retin-A Cream FAQs

Why is my skin breaking out?  I started using Retin-A Cream a month ago.

Some people notice new blemishes around 3 to 6 weeks after starting treatment.  This is actually a sign that Retin-A Cream is working against deep acne that was previously below the skin’s surface.

How long does Retin-A Cream take to work?

Retin-A Cream works deep inside your skin which takes time.  Some improvement may be noticed after 3 weeks, but the full benefits of Retin-A Cream may take more than 6 weeks. 

How should I incorporate Retin-A Cream into my skincare routine?

In the morning, wash your face gently with a mild, non-medicated soap.  Pat dry.  Apply sunscreen.  If desired, apply non-drying skin products and cosmetics.   

In the evening, wash your face gently, without scrubbing.  Pat dry.  Wait 20 to 30 minutes, then apply a thin layer of Retin-A Cream.  Avoid corners of the nose, mouth, eyes, and open wounds.

Related Drugs

• Aczone
• Epiduo
• Retin-A Micro
• Tazorac Gel

References

1. Retin-A Cream Prescribing Information.  Skillman, NJ:  Ortho-McNeil Pharmaceutical, Inc.;2002. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2002/16921s21s22s25lbl.pdf Accessed December 12, 2020.
2. What is Acne? National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases; 2020. https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/acne Accessed December 12, 2020.
3. Wrinkles. Manríquez, J. et al.;2014. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25569867/ Accessed December 12, 2020.