Tretinoin

Tretinoin, also known as all-trans retinoic acid, is a prescription-strength retinoid that requires no conversion in the skin. It is the most well-studied and potent topical treatment for photoageing, with decades of clinical evidence.

As the active form of Vitamin A, tretinoin directly binds to skin cell receptors to increase cell turnover, stimulate collagen, and treat both acne and signs of ageing. It requires a prescription and medical supervision.

Tretinoin is the synthetic version of retinoic acid, meaning it requires no conversion to work with skin. As such, it’s the most potent retinoid. Tretinoin is prescribed under a myriad of brand names, most notably Retin-A™ and Altreno™. It’s also sometimes referred to as all-trans retinoic acid. Because of its potency, it’s only available by prescription. It’s the gold standard when it comes to the anti-ageing and anti-acne benefits it provides. Not only does it help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles as well as dark spots and hyperpigmentation, but it also helps to promote firmness, improve texture, brighten and, of course, helps treat acne. It’s the go-to prescription retinoid for skin with stubborn concerns, acne-prone skin, skin with sun damage and those facing more-advanced signs of ageing. Tretinoin is one of the most-researched retinoids, and was approved for topical application by the FDA way back in 1971. However, because of its strength it can cause sensitivity. To combat this, it is recommended to use a gentle, fragrance-free skin care routine which includes a nourishing toner, soothing serum, hydrating moisturizer and SPF alongside tretinoin.