PRODUCT DETAILS

Composition

• Tretinoin 0.05% w/w
  (0.5 mg tretinoin per gram)

Category / Class

• Topical retinoid
• Vitamin A derivative
• Anti-acne and skin-renewal medication

Use / Indications

Used for:

• Acne vulgaris
• Blackheads and whiteheads
• Post-acne marks/hyperpigmentation
• Fine wrinkles and photoaging
• Uneven skin texture
• Some keratinization disorders

Mechanism of Action

Tretinoin increases epidermal cell turnover, prevents clogging of pores, promotes exfoliation, and stimulates collagen production, improving acne and skin texture.

Direction of Use

Typical usage:

• Apply thin layer once daily at night

Instructions:

• Wash face gently and allow skin to dry completely
• Apply pea-sized amount to entire affected area
• Avoid eyes, lips, nostrils, and broken skin
• Wash hands after application
• Use moisturizer and sunscreen daily
• Improvement may take 6–12 weeks  

Common Side Effects

Especially during early treatment:

• Dryness
• Redness
• Peeling/flaking
• Burning or stinging
• Irritation
• Tight skin sensation
• Increased sun sensitivity
• Temporary acne purging

Serious Side Effects

Seek medical attention if patient develops:

• Severe swelling
• Blistering
• Severe redness/pain
• Allergic reaction
• Severe skin discoloration
• Difficulty breathing

Warnings

Do NOT use on:

• Sunburned skin
• Eczema
• Broken or severely irritated skin
• Severe inflammatory dermatitis unless advised

Important warnings:

• Strongly increases UV sensitivity
• Daily sunscreen use is essential
• Excessive application worsens irritation, not effectiveness
• Avoid tanning beds and excessive sunlight

Drug Interactions

Use cautiously with:

• Benzoyl peroxide
• Salicylic acid
• AHAs/BHAs
• Alcohol-containing toners
• Harsh exfoliants/scrubs
• Sulfur/resorcinol products
• Other retinoids

Combining multiple irritating products may significantly increase skin irritation.

Cautions

• Start slowly if sensitive (e.g., every other night initially)
• Use moisturizer regularly
• Purging may occur before improvement
• Avoid waxing treated skin
• Pregnancy: generally avoided unless prescribed
• Use cautiously in sensitive or eczema-prone skin