Tretinoin FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About Tretinoin

Tretinoin is the acid form of vitamin A, and is available as a topical cream or gel commonly used for the treatment of acne vulgaris.

Common trade names for tretinoin include Aberela, Airol, Renova, Atralin, Retin-A, Avita, Refissa, and Stieva-A, but it is also available as a generic.

If you are currently using tretinoin, or are considering using it, you may have some questions about how it works and how it’s going to affect you.

This is completely normal, and it’s why we’ve put together this page answering some of the most frequently asked questions that people have about tretinoin.

Is Tretinoin Safe?

Yes, if used as directed by your doctor or dermatologist tretinoin is perfectly safe.

Is Tretinoin Safe During Pregnancy?

Although it is a topical treatment, it can be absorbed through the skin and could possibly affect the fetus during pregnancy. For this reason, it is best to avoid tretinoin if you are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant.

Is Tretinoin Safe While Breastfeeding?

Tretinoin should be avoided if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as it could possibly be passed to the infant through the mother’s milk.

Is Tretinoin The Same As Retinol?

While tretinoin and retinol are both forms of vitamin A, they are in fact different from one another. While retinol is one of the animal forms of vitamin A, tretinoin is the acid form of vitamin A.

Is Tretinoin The Same As Retin A?

Yes, Retin A is a common trade (brand) name for tretinoin. Other trade names include Aberela, Airol, Renova, Atralin, Avita, Refissa, and Stieva-A.

Is Tretinoin A Steroid?

No, tretinoin is neither a steroid nor a corticosteroid.

Is Tretinoin Cream Used For Wrinkles?

Yes, tretinoin is sometimes used for the treatment of wrinkles, in addition to being used for the treatment of acne vulgaris.

Is Tretinoin Available Over-The-Counter?

No, tretinoin is available by prescription only. Speak with your doctor or dermatologist if you are interested in using tretinoin.

Will Tretinoin Lighten Or Bleach Skin?

Tretinoin has been used to treat skin coloration disorders, and can have a lightening effect on the skin.

Is Tretinoin The Same As Benzoyl Peroxide?

No, tretinoin and benzoyl peroxide are not related in any way. While tretinoin is the acid for of vitamin A, benzoyl peroxide is an organic compound in the peroxide family.

Is Tretinoin Used For Acne Scars?

Because of the lightening effect that tretinoin can have on the skin, it can be used to reduce the appearance of acne scars. However, this effect will most likely be mild, and tretinoin is primarily used for the treatment of active acne vulgaris.

Is Tretinoin The Same As Tazorac?

No, tretinoin is not the same as Tazorac. While tretinoin is the acid for of vitamin A, Tazorac is a trade name for tazarotene, which is an entirely different medication used for the treatment of acne vulgaris and other skin conditions.

Can Tretinoin Expire?

Yes, tretinoin can expire. Once past the expiration date, it will chemically degrade into isotretinoin, an entirely different type of chemical compound.

Can Tretinoin Be Used Around The Eyes?

Tretinoin can be used around the eyes, however care should be taken as the skin in those area in typically more sensitive than skin in other places.

Can Tretinoin Cause Hair Loss?

Yes, hair loss is one of the possible side effects of tretinoin. However, this is temporary and will go away when you stop using the medication.

Can Tretinoin Cause Headaches?

Yes, headaches are a possible side effect of tretinoin.

Can Tretinoin Cause Broken Capillaries?

Yes, tretinoin can cause broken capillaries or a rash-like appearance.

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