Tretinoin is a prescription-strength topical medication derived from vitamin A (retinoic acid). It’s commonly used in dermatology to treat various skin conditions, especially acne, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation, including melasma.
🔬 What Tretinoin Does:
- Speeds up cell turnover – pushes newer, healthier skin cells to the surface.
- Unclogs pores – excellent for treating acne.
- Fades dark spots – breaks down excess melanin, helpful for melasma and sun spots.
- Boosts collagen production – improves skin texture and reduces fine lines.
🌙 How to Use Tretinoin (Safely):
- Apply at night, after cleansing and drying your face.
- Start with a pea-sized amount for the entire face.
- Follow with a gentle moisturizer.
- Always wear sunscreen in the daytime — tretinoin makes your skin more sensitive to the sun.
⚠️ Side Effects (especially at the start):
- Dryness
- Peeling or redness
- Increased sensitivity
These usually lessen after 2–4 weeks as your skin adjusts.
🧴 Available Forms:
- Cream or gel
- Strengths: typically 0.025%, 0.05%, or 0.1%