1. Health

Discuss in my forum

Tretinoin

By , About.com Guide

Updated December 14, 2011

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Definition:

A topical retinoid used to treat mild to moderate acne. A form of vitamin A, tretinoin rapidly exfoliates the skin, keeping pores clear of cellular debris and preventing the formation of comedones. It is available by prescription.

Tretinoin is also used to improve the look of fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots.

Side effects of tretinoin include:

  • dryness, peeling, and flaking of the skin
  • redness
  • mild stinging, burning or itching
  • photosensitivity

Tretinoin is the active ingredient found in the branded drugs Retin-A, Retin-A Micro, Ziana, among others.

Also Known As: Retin-A, Retin-A Micro, Renova, Avita, Altinac
  1. About.com
  2. Health
  3. Acne
  4. Basics
  5. Glossary
  6. S - Z
  7. Tretinoin - Tretinoin Acne Treatment

©2013 About.com. All rights reserved.

We comply with the HONcode standard
for trustworthy health
information: verify here.