Tretinoin (Topical)
Key points
- Renovareg; may reduce the appearance of fine wrinkles and rough skin.
- Retin-A Micro, Renova, Retin-A, Avita There may be other brand names for this medicine.
- You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to tretinoin.
- Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
Tretinoin (On The Skin)
Tretinoin (TRET-i noyn)
Treats acne and other skin conditions. Renovareg; may reduce the appearance of fine wrinkles and rough skin.
Brand Name(s):
Retin-A Micro, Renova, Retin-A, Avita
There may be other brand names for this medicine.
When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:
You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to tretinoin.
How to Use This Medicine:
Cream, Gel/Jelly, Liquid
- Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to apply and how often. Do not use more medicine or apply it more often than your doctor tells you to.
- This medicine is for use on the skin only. Do not get it in your eyes, mouth, nose, or the creases alongside your nose. Do not use on skin areas that have cuts or scrapes. If it does get on these areas, rinse it off right away. Do not use this medicine if you have a sunburn, eczema, or other skin problems.
- Wash your skin with mild soap and warm water and gently pat it dry. Allow your skin to dry for 20 to 30 minutes before applying this medicine.
- Do not wash your face or put on make-up for at least 1 hour after applying this medicine. You may need to apply a skin moisturizer in the morning.
- You may need to use this medicine for several weeks or months before your skin starts to look better. Applying extra medicine will not make it work faster.
- For the cream or gel, apply a thin layer to the affected skin area. Rub it in gently. The medicine should become invisible right away. After about a minute, if you can still see the medicine or if the medicine dries and flakes off, then you are using too much.
- Apply the liquid using your fingertip, a gauze pad, or a cotton swab. Carefully pour out the liquid. Avoid getting it on other skin areas.
If a dose is missed:
- If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, apply it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to apply the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not apply extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:
- Store the medicine at room temperature in a closed container, away from heat, fire, and direct light. Do not freeze. Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
Written and revised by
Gerald Hurowitz, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
health.am provides general information, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about your own health.
