PRESCRIPTION SKINCARE

Tretinoin Cream

20x more potent than over-the-counter retinol, Tretinoin is a prescription retinoid cream that diminishes wrinkles, dark spots, and discoloration due to sun exposure.

Boosts collagen production
Stimulates renewal of skin cells for brighter, smoother skin
Reduces pore size

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Your clinician will prescribe the strength that's best for you. Starting at $45 for one month's supply

Product Information

Who it's for

Anyone looking to prevent or treat wrinkles, fine lines, dark spots, or discoloration can benefit from bringing Tretinoin into their skincare routine. It should not be used by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Benefits

Tretinoin boosts collagen production and encourages the renewal of skin cells, which help improve skin tone and texture, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and lighten dark spots for brighter, smoother skin.

What to expect

Results:

When using Tretinoin, patience and consistency is key.

In the first 2-4 weeks, your skin experiences many changes — oil glands shrinking, dry skin cells shedding, and collagen production increasing. While this happens, you might notice a temporary increase in dryness or acne that will go away with continued use.

After 3-6 weeks, you’ll notice visibly smoother skin with a more even tone. At this point, your skin will have adjusted to the Tretinoin.

After 12 weeks, your skin’s collagen is working overtime, beginning to smooth out fine lines and brighten the skin’s surface.

In 6 months, you’ll notice visibly reduced wrinkles, fine lines, and dark spots, with refreshed skin that will continue to improve over time.

Downsides:

Tretinoin can cause some dryness and irritation, but this usually goes away over time and can be avoided by starting at a low dose.

Safety information

We do not prescribe Tretinoin to anyone who is pregnant or nursing.

The prescription you need, without the hassle

Free virtual consultation
Complete a quick consultation with a Modern Age clinician to see if this prescription is right for your goals.
Speedy shipping
If prescribed, you'll receive a treatment plan and get your prescription shipped directly to you.
Ongoing support
Your clinician will check in with you via email to see if you have questions, need any adjustments, or would like to set up a follow-up consult.

How to use

When: Once a day, preferably as part of your nightly routine.
Where: Use on the area of your face directed by your clinician.
How: Apply a thin layer of the cream after washing your face, then follow with moisturizer as needed. Don't forget SPF! Tretinoin makes your skin more sensitive to UV rays.
Good to know: Only a thin layer is needed to get the full benefits — using too much could cause dryness and flaking.

Common Questions

How long will I need to be on this cream?

In order to sustain the benefits, Tretinoin Cream should be applied on an ongoing basis. Your Modern Age clinician can help create a personalized plan that works for your skin goals.

When should I apply this cream?

Just before bedtime, after washing your face.

What are possible side effects?

The most common side effects of Tretinoin are dryness and irritation, but this usually goes away over time and can be avoided by starting at a low dose. Other potential side effects include:

Mild, temporary stinging or warming sensation when applying

Temporary lightening or darkening of the skin with repeating use of Tretinoin

Hives and itching (very rare, usually resulting from an allergic reaction)

What strengths of Tretinoin do you offer?

Your clinician will prescribe you .1%, .05%, or .0025% Tretinoin strength depending on your specific needs and goals.

What is the difference between this and over-the-counter retinol?

Retinol and Tretinoin are both part of the “retinoid” family, but they’re not identical. They both increase cell turnover to help with skin texture and elasticity, but Tretinoin is about 20x more potent than its over-the-counter cousin.

So when you see that we offer .1% prescription Tretinoin but .5% over-the-counter retinol products, that doesn’t mean that the retinol is stronger. Tretinoin is a different, more powerful substance that we prescribe for people looking to treat wrinkles, fine lines, discoloration, and more.

What else should I know before using Tretinoin?

If you are allergic to drugs that contain Vitamin A (such as Isotretinoin), you may be at higher risk for an allergic reaction. You should also keep in mind that after applying Tretinoin, your skin will be more prone to sunburn and sun damage.