Tretinoin

Tretinoin is prescribed to adults, men and women, dealing with acne or persistent breakouts, and it is also used off-label to support skin texture and the look of fine lines. It isn't right for everyone. A licensed clinician reviews your skin, your health history, and the other products and medications you use to decide whether it's appropriate for you.

Tretinoin is a retinoid, a derivative of vitamin A, and it acts on the skin's own renewal cycle. It speeds up how quickly skin cells turn over, so pores are less likely to stay clogged and the surface layer is replaced more often. That's why it's prescribed for acne, and why it may help support smoother texture over time.

It's a topical used at night. Wash and dry your face, wait a few minutes, then spread a pea-sized amount thinly over the whole face, avoiding the eyes, nostrils and lips. Most people start with a few nights a week and increase as their skin adapts, following the schedule their clinician sets. Message your care team before changing it.

Skin takes time. Many people go through an adjustment period in the first weeks, with dryness, flaking, or a stretch where breakouts look worse before they settle, and it usually eases as skin adapts. Any change in texture or tone is measured in months of consistent use, not days. Tretinoin also makes skin more sensitive to sun, so wear sunscreen daily.

Redness, dryness, peeling, stinging and increased sun sensitivity are common, especially early on, which is why daily sunscreen matters. Do not use tretinoin if you are pregnant or trying to conceive, and tell your clinician if that applies to you. If you have eczema or very sensitive skin, talk it through with your clinician before starting, and report any severe irritation.

You can cancel anytime from your online patient portal. There are no cancellation fees or long-term contracts. Canceling won't stop an order already sent to the pharmacy. If your order is still pending, contact support and we'll help.