Tretinoin Cream (Retin-A) for Preventing Acne

Tretinoin is a synthetic form of Vitamin A. Tretinoin stimulates cell growth and rapid exfoliation to reveal fresh, new skin. Tretinoin also decreases the buildup of dead cells that can clog pores.

Tretinoin should be used once a day, preferably as part of your bedtime routine. To use Tretinoin Cream, simply wash your hands and skin with a mild facial cleanser. To reduce irritation, be sure to allow your skin to dry for 20 to 30 minutes after washing. You only need to use a thin layer of Tretinoin to reap the benefits. Using too much can cause excessive dryness and flaking. Avoid getting Tretinoin in your eyes, ears, mouth, and nose. Tretinoin should be stored tightly closed, at room temperature, in its original container.

Tretinoin Cream 0.025%, 0.05% or 0.1% is available in most pharmacies. As the generic equivalent of pricey Retin-A, Atralin, and Avita, Tretinoin provides the same great results at a much lower price. Because it is stronger than over-the-counter retinol products, Tretinoin Cream is available only with a prescription. After reviewing your medical history, Nurx medical providers will prescribe Tretinoin Cream if appropriate. With Nurx, your prescription arrives through the mail privately, safely, and discreetly.

Tretinoin Cream is covered by most insurance plans as well as Medicare Part D and Medicare Advantage. Nurx accepts many private insurance plans, and our list is always expanding.

As with any prescription medication, discuss all of your medications, allergies, and treatment options with your doctor or a Nurx provider before using Tretinoin Cream. If your skin is irritated or sunburned, you may need to allow your skin to heal before beginning treatment. Your doctor or a Nurx provider can advise you on the proper time to start adding Tretinoin to your skin care regimen. 

Tretinoin Cream can make your skin more sensitive to ultraviolet light. Using Tretinoin at night lowers your risk of sun damage. During the daylight hours, protect your skin from sunburn and sun damage by wearing protective clothing, hats, and sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Avoid spending time in tanning beds and under sunlamps. If you get sunburned or your skin becomes extremely red or blistered, contact your healthcare professional immediately.

Some Tretinoin users experience new or increased sensitivity to extreme weather conditions, such as low temperatures or high winds. Wear protective clothing to stay comfortable during cold or windy weather.

When using Tretinoin, your facial cleansers and cosmetics should be gentle, non-abrasive, and non-drying. Using a good moisturizer will help your skin stay supple and comfortable. Confused about which products to use?  Your healthcare professional can help you choose products that maximize the benefits of Tretinoin Cream and minimize unpleasant side effects. 

Tretinoin has not been adequately studied in pregnant or breastfeeding women. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult with a healthcare professional to determine if Tretinoin Cream is right for you.

Like every topical retinoid, Tretinoin use may cause side effects. Most of the side effects caused by Tretinoin are mild and include drying, flaking, or peeling skin. You may also experience a mild, temporary stinging or warming sensation when applying Tretinoin. Skin treated with Tretinoin is more prone to sunburn and sun damage. Repeated use of Tretinoin may also cause temporary lightening or darkening of the skin. Most people using Tretinoin find that side effects lessen as their skin adjusts to treatment. If you find these mild side effects unpleasant, rest assured that all of them completely disappear when Tretinoin is no longer used.

Although severe reactions are uncommon, possible serious side effects include itching, hives, and pain. These side effects are usually a result of an allergic reaction. Although scary, such reactions to Tretinoin are very rare. If you are allergic to drugs that contain Vitamin A (such as Isotretinoin), you may be at higher risk for an allergic reaction.

Tretinoin generally is compatible with other medications. To prevent excessive dryness and irritation, avoid using facial cleansers, toners, and cosmetics that contain sulfur, salicylic acid, or resorcinol. Never combine Tretinoin with products containing benzoyl peroxide, as they diminish Tretinoin's effectiveness and can result in dryness.

Topical products that may interact with Tretinoin include perm solutions, medicated cleansers, exfoliating soaps, alpha hydroxy acid, glycolic acid, and products that contain alcohol, lime, or menthol. Using these products with Tretinoin can cause excessive redness, irritation, and peeling.

You should avoid using Tretinoin if you are currently taking fluoroquinolones, tetracyclines, thiazide water pills, sulfa drugs, and phenothiazines. The combination of Tretinoin and these drugs can increase your skin's sensitivity to sunlight.

Getting your prescriptions with us could not be simpler. Select your medication, answer a few questions, and enter any insurance information you have. No insurance? No problem. You can still get the medications you need at a great price. One of our Nurx medical providers in your home state will review your prescription request and write your prescription, if appropriate. Your medication is then quickly and discreetly delivered to your home.

Yes! You can get your Tretinoin cream 0.025%, 0.05% or 0.1% quickly and easily through Nurx.

After a review by our Nurx medical team, we'll ship your Tretinoin prescription in 72 hours or less. Your prescription is shipped for free using USPS 1-3 day priority mail. You should receive your Tretinoin 3-5 business days after your prescription request is complete. Expedited shipping is available; just call us at 1-800-321-NURX between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday.

Tretinoin Cream is made by Valeant Pharmaceuticals International, Inc. for Spear Dermatology Products.

Your doctor or one of our Nurx medical professionals can help you figure out if the 0.025%, 0.05% or 0.1% cream is best for you based on your symptoms and medical history.

All prescription retinoids come with an expiration date. Although not dangerous to use, expired Tretinoin may not be as effective.

Because it speeds up cell turnover, Tretinoin can make your skin look brighter and younger. Tretinoin also increases your skin's production of collagen, a vital component in young, healthy skin.

If breakouts have left you with uneven, bumpy skin and scars, Tretinoin can help. Tretinoin helps flatten acne scars and lighten dark patches, making scars less noticeable. Tretinoin is most effective on newer, smaller acne scars.

No. Unlike products that contain benzoyl peroxide, your clothes, towels, and sheets are safe from bleaching with Tretinoin.

If you are new to Tretinoin, you may be surprised to experience more blemishes after using the product for three to six weeks. This is a normal part of the skin renewal process. Don't give up! Most people see a noticeable improvement in their skin after using Tretinoin for six to 12 weeks.

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