Tretinoin for Acne (Acne Vulgaris)
The prescription-strength version of retinol. Same goals (smoother, more even skin), but works faster and is more irritating. Needs a doctor.
Why it works for Acne (Acne Vulgaris)
Keeps pores from clogging in the first place, and speeds up how fast your skin sheds the plugs it already has. It is the best-proven prescription retinoid (a vitamin A treatment) for acne. It also helps other treatments like antibiotics and benzoyl peroxide work better when used alongside it. Strong trials show 0.025-0.1% strengths beat a plain base cream for both clogged pores and pimples. It has the AAD's top (Grade A) recommendation. It is a first choice for blackheads and whiteheads, and a preferred part of combination routines for moderate to severe acne.
How Tretinoin works
Active form of vitamin A that binds retinoid receptors directly to normalize keratinization and boost collagen.
Evidence
4 citations from our ingredient database. Full citation list on the Tretinoin ingredient page.