Skin & Dermatology ยท Topical retinoid
Tretinoin
A prescription-strength topical retinoid, the single best-studied topical ingredient for both acne and photoaging, dosed to your skin by a licensed clinician.
Already know this is what you want? The second option books the appointment straight away. Not sure yet? See the labs first.
Your consult is free. We will not prescribe this, or anything, before a clinician has spoken with you. Final cost depends on the form and dose prescribed.
Mechanism
The standard the rest are measured against.
Tretinoin is a vitamin A derivative that speeds up skin cell turnover, which keeps pores from clogging, and stimulates collagen production, which improves fine lines and texture over months of use.
It is the active ingredient most other retinoid and anti-aging products are measured against, and it is available here at prescription strength rather than the lower concentrations found over the counter.
Expect an adjustment period of dryness, peeling or mild irritation in the first few weeks as skin builds tolerance; your clinician will set a starting frequency and strength and adjust from there.
Safety and eligibility
Your consult and labs screen for all of the following.
- Pregnancy warning, Not for use during pregnancy, or if you are trying to become pregnant.
- Initial irritation, dryness, peeling, redness or mild stinging is common in the first two to four weeks.
- Sun sensitivity, use daily sunscreen, treated skin is more sensitive to sun exposure.
- Start slow, most clinicians recommend starting every other night and building up tolerance before nightly use.
FAQ
Tretinoin questions.
Yes, it's approved and commonly prescribed for both, your clinician will set the strength and frequency for your goal.
Tretinoin is prescription-strength and more potent than over-the-counter retinol, with a faster and more pronounced effect.
Tretinoin speeds up cell turnover, which causes temporary peeling and sensitivity until skin builds tolerance.
Acne improvement is often visible within six to eight weeks; anti-aging effects on texture and fine lines take three to six months.
We will not prescribe before we understand you.
Book a one-to-one consult with the clinical team. We talk through your goals, order the bloodwork that matters, and build a plan from what we find.