Tretinoin Cream (Prescription)

Tretinoin is not available over-the-counter, so you must consult a dermatologist or use a telehealth platform like Curology or Dermatica to get a prescription. During the consultation, the provider will determine the right concentration, typically starting around 0.025% for beginners. Once prescribed, you can fill it at a local pharmacy.

The tretinoin purge is a temporary worsening of acne or skin peeling that occurs because the cream accelerates rapid skin cell turnover. This phase typically lasts between two to six weeks as the skin adjusts to the Vitamin A derivative. To manage it, dermatologists recommend applying a moisturizer before the cream to buffer the active ingredient.

You should not apply tretinoin and benzoyl peroxide at the exact same time, as they can oxidize and deactivate each other when mixed in the same bottle. Most dermatologists recommend applying benzoyl peroxide in the morning and tretinoin strictly at night. Both ingredients also make your skin highly photosensitive, so daily sunscreen is mandatory.

Tretinoin cream is widely manufactured in three standard strengths: 0.025%, 0.05%, and 0.1%. For anti-aging purposes, patients often start with the lowest 0.025% concentration to build tolerance before moving to the 0.05% level. The highest 0.1% strength is usually reserved for severe acne or highly tolerant skin.