Tretinoin

Retinoid

Also known as: All-trans retinoic acid, Retinoic acid, Vitamin A acid

Description

Tretinoin is a first-generation retinoid derived from vitamin A. It is one of the most extensively studied topical agents in dermatology, widely used for acne vulgaris and photoaging. [Kligman 1986] [Griffiths 1993]

Mechanism of Action

Binds to retinoic acid receptors (RARs) in the nucleus, modulating gene transcription. Promotes keratinocyte differentiation, accelerates epidermal turnover, reduces cohesion of comedonal cells, and stimulates collagen synthesis in the dermis. [Griffiths 1993]

Indications

Available Concentrations

0.025%0.05%0.1%

Side Effects

Contraindications

  • Pregnancy (Category X) [Zaenglein]
  • Eczema or broken skin at application site [Kligman]
  • Concurrent use with photosensitizing agents

Pregnancy Category

X [Zaenglein 2016]

Found In

Drugs containing Tretinoin

AcitrinAcitretin CapsulesIsotroinIsotretinoin CapsulesRetin-ATretinoin CreamTretivaIsotretinoin Capsules

Cosmetics containing Tretinoin

A-Ret Tretinoin Gel 0.05%Menarini (A-Ret)Aklief Trifarotene Cream 0.005%GaldermaEukroma Plus Cream (Hydroquinone 2% + Tretinoin 0.025% + Mometasone 0.1%)Dr. Reddy'sIsotroin Gel (Isotretinoin 0.05%)CiplaSupatret C Gel (Clindamycin 1% + Tretinoin 0.025%)Sun PharmaTazret Forte Cream (Tazarotene 0.1% for Psoriasis)GlenmarkTazret Tazarotene Cream 0.05%GlenmarkTri-Luma Cream (Fluocinolone 0.01% + Hydroquinone 4% + Tretinoin 0.05%)Galderma

Related Conditions

Acne Vulgaris Potent retinoid — normalises keratinisation Melasma Accelerates epidermal turnover and disperses melanin Photoaging Gold standard — stimulates collagen, normalises cell turnover

References

  1. Griffiths CE, Russman AN, Majmudar G, et al. "Restoration of collagen formation in photodamaged human skin by tretinoin (retinoic acid)." N Engl J Med, 1993. doi:10.1056/NEJM199302113280702
  2. Kligman AM, Grove GL, Hirose R, et al. "Topical tretinoin for photoaged skin." J Am Acad Dermatol, 1986. doi:10.1016/S0190-9622(86)70222-0
  3. Leyden JJ, Shalita AR, Saatjian GD, et al. "Tretinoin microsphere gel in acne: a multicenter dose-response study." Cutis, 1991.
  4. Zaenglein AL, Pathy AL, Schlosser BJ, et al. "Guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris." J Am Acad Dermatol, 2016. doi:10.1016/j.jaad.2015.12.037

Limitations

This page provides a general overview of Tretinoin in dermatology. It does not cover every possible use, formulation, or interaction. Individual responses to compounds vary — what works for one person may not work for another. Always consult a qualified dermatologist before starting or changing any treatment.