Although Tretinoin was first patented in 1957 and approved for medical use in 1962 as a topical treatment for acne, it has experienced something of a renaissance with videos boasting one billion views on TikTok, and Google searches doubling in a year.
Treatment of acne
Tretinoin is commonly prescribed for treating mild to moderate acne, including both non-inflammatory (whiteheads and blackheads) and inflammatory (papules, pustules, and cysts) forms. It helps to prevent the formation of new acne lesions and promote the healing of existing ones.
Hyperpigmentation and photoaging
Tretinoin can be effective in treating hyperpigmentation and photoaging issues such as melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. It helps to fade dark spots and even out skin tone3.
Rough skin texture
Tretinoin can be used to treat acne scars and the overall texture of the skin by encouraging the shedding of dead skin cells and promoting the growth of newer, smoother skin cells4.
Stretch marks
Clinical studies show that tretinoin can be used to improve the appearance of stretch marks, in particular recent stretch marks.
Fine lines and wrinkles
Tretinoin is highly effective in reducing significant signs of anti-aging such as deep wrinkles and pronounced sun damage by stimulating collagen production, accelerating cell turnover and improving skin elasticity6.
Reduce the appearance of enlarged pores
By reducing oil production and boosting the production of collagen and elastin.
Sun damage.
Tretinoin can improve the appearance of sun damaged skin by encouraging cell turnover and increasing collagen production.
Keratosis pilaris
Although not its primary use, tretinoin can sometimes help in managing keratosis pilaris, a condition characterized by rough patches and small, acne-like bumps, by promoting cell turnover and reducing keratin build-up in hair follicles.
