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Finacea vs. Tretinoin

Azelaic acid (Finacea) is a dicarboxylic acid. It's a topical medication used to treat mild-to-moderate rosacea in adults. It works by easing skin redness and inflammation. Azelaic acid (Finacea) is applied to the skin twice daily, in the morning and evening. This medication comes as a gel and foam. Some side effects of azelaic acid (Finacea) include mild burning, tingling, and itching. It's available as brand name and generic medications.

• Treatment of papules and pustules in adults with mild-to-moderate rosacea

Finacea foam

• Pain (6%)
• Itching (3%)

Finacea gel

• Burning, stinging, tingling (4-16%)
• Itching (1-6%)
• Scaly or dry skin (1-5%)

• Loss of skin color
• Eye and mouth irritation
• Worsening asthma (gel only)
• Flammable (foam only)

Retin-A (tretinoin) is a retinoid medication that's used to treat acne in adults and children 12 years and older. It's available as a cream or a gel that's applied onto the skin once a day. Side effects include skin irritation, redness, and peeling. Your acne might get worse at the beginning of treatment, but it should get better as you continue using the medication. You must have a prescription for Retin-A (tretinoin) from your primary care provider or dermatologist; this medication isn't available over the counter.

• Acne

• Skin peeling or discomfort
• Warm feeling or stinging after applying
• Skin redness
• Sensitivity to sunlight (sunburns)
• Worsening of acne in the first few weeks of treatment

• Sunburns
• Skin irritation in extreme weather
• Skin reactions