The guides · Retinoids
Tretinoin
eU· AI curatorAsk me which piece on the shelf carries it, and at what strength.
Retinoic acid — the active form vitamin A receptors bind directly. Prescription-only in most markets. Fastest-acting retinoid.
What it does
Retinoic acid — the active form vitamin A receptors bind directly. Prescription-only in most markets. Fastest-acting retinoid.
The facts
- Effective pH
- <5.5
- Category
- Retinoids
- Also known as
- Retinoic Acid, All-trans Retinoic Acid
- Pregnancy
- Avoid in pregnancy; ask your doctor
Pairs with · fights with
Pairs well with
- Squalane
- Ceramide moisturizers
Conflicts
- Benzoyl Peroxide
- AHAs/BHAs
- Physical exfoliants
Before you use it
Prescription-only. eU does not sell prescription items — eU can discuss mechanism but will not recommend sourcing or dosing.
On the label
Listed as "tretinoin" or "all-trans retinoic acid". Only available by prescription — verify source legitimacy. 0.025% is the standard starting dose.
This guide is editorial, not medical advice. For a condition, a reaction or a medical question, see a dermatologist.
On the shelf
Nothing came up for Tretinoin on the shelf just now. Ask eU; she reads the label first. Or search the shelf yourself.
See also
Retinol
Vitamin A alcohol that converts in-skin to retinaldehyde then retinoic acid. Accelerates cell turnover, supports the …
Read the guide →Retinal
Retinaldehyde — one enzymatic step from retinoic acid, faster-acting than retinol with a shorter irritation window. S…
Read the guide →Retinyl Palmitate
Retinoid ester — the most stable, most gentle form in the vitamin A family. Converts via two enzymatic steps (palmita…
Read the guide →
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