Tretinoin (Retin-A)

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Tretinoin (Retin-A)

Tretinoin (Retin-A, Avita, Renova) is a topical medication most often used to treat acne. It is sometimes used to reduce the appearance of fine wrinkles and to smooth rough facial skin. Tretinoin is made from vitamin A and is sometimes called vitamin A acid or retinoic acid. It comes in cream, gel, and liquid forms.

Side effects of tretinoin include dryness, excessive redness, and peeling of the skin. It may also increase your sensitivity to sunlight and make you more likely to get sunburned. Be sure to protect your skin from exposure to the sun (or any other source of UV light) by wearing sunscreen and protective clothing.

Use of topical tretinoin during pregnancy may not be safe for your baby. Tretinoin can also affect breast milk if you are breast-feeding. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breast-feeding, make sure your doctor knows before prescribing tretinoin for you.

Credits

Author	Kathe Gallagher, MSW
Editor	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Associate Editor	Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer	Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	James D. McMahan, MD, FACS - Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Last Updated	August 25, 2006

Last updated:	August 25, 2006
Author:	Kathe Gallagher, MSW
Reviewed By:	Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine, Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine
Editors:	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman

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