How Long Does Retin-A (Tretinoin) Take to Work? Plus 9 More FAQs

1. What is Retin-A?

Retin-A is a brand-name version of tretinoin. It belongs to a class of medications called retinoids. 

Retin-A works by increasing skin cell turnover. This helps unclog pores, prevents pimples from forming, and improves the appearance of sun-damaged skin. It can also boost collagen production, helping reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

2. How long does it take for Retin-A to work?

If you’ve been prescribed Retin-A, you’re probably hoping that your acne or wrinkles will improve right away. But Retin-A takes time to work, and the timeline depends on what you’re treating. 

3. What are the benefits of Retin-A?

Retin-A works by increasing skin cell turnover. New skin cells push older, dead skin cells to the surface, helping to unclog pores and improve skin renewal. This has several benefits for the skin, including:

• Clearing existing acne and helping to prevent new breakouts

• Improving skin texture and tone

• Fading dark spots and discoloration

• Reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles

4. How often should you use Retin-A?

Most people apply Retin-A once daily before bedtime. Retin-A can cause dryness and irritation. So your dermatologist may recommend starting every other night and gradually increasing to nightly as your skin adjusts. Using Retin-A more often won’t make it work faster. In fact, applying it too often can increase redness, peeling, and irritation.

5. How do you use Retin-A cream?

Using Retin-A correctly can help maximize its benefits while minimizing irritation. Here’s how to use it correctly:

• Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and allow it to dry completely before applying tretinoin.

• Apply a pea-sized amount to your entire face. Applying too much will irritate your skin. 

• Use a gentle moisturizer before and/or after tretinoin to minimize skin irritation. 

And remember: More isn’t always better. If you’re not seeing the results you want, talk to your dermatologist about whether a higher strength may be appropriate.

6. What are the risks and side effects of Retin-A?

Retin-A is safe when used as directed. Most side effects are mild and go away as your skin adjusts to the medication. Some common side effects include:

• Redness

• Dryness

• Peeling or flaking

• Crusting

• Increased sun sensitivity

Certain skin care products can make these side effects worse, including products containing alcohol, astringents (such as witch hazel), and salicylic acid. People with eczema may also experience more irritation because their skin is already prone to dryness and inflammation. 

7. Is tretinoin the same as Retin-A?

Yes, tretinoin is the generic name for Retin-A. Retin-A is FDA approved to treat acne, but it’s often used off-label to treat wrinkles and fine lines caused by sun damage. 

Retin-A comes as a cream and gel in strengths ranging from 0.01% to 0.1%. Retin-A Micro is another brand-name version of tretinoin that comes as a gel in strengths ranging from 0.04% to 0.1%. Retin-A Micro releases tretinoin more slowly into the skin, which helps reduce irritation and other side effects. 

Your dermatologist can help determine which tretinoin product is best for your skin type, plus treatment goals and insurance coverage. 

8. Is Retin-A a steroid?

No, Retin-A (or tretinoin) isn’t a steroid. Retin-A is a retinoid, which is a class of medications derived from vitamin A. It works by increasing skin cell turnover and stimulating collagen production. 

Steroids work differently. They reduce inflammation and are commonly used to treat conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and allergic skin reactions. 

9. Can you use azelaic acid with Retin-A?

Yes, azelaic acid and Retin-A can be used together. Both medications are commonly used to treat acne and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark spots left behind after acne heals). 

Because both products can cause irritation, your dermatologist may recommend introducing them slowly or using them at different times of day. For example, some people may use azelaic acid in the morning and Retin-A at night. 

10. Can you use Retin-A during pregnancy?

No, you shouldn’t use Retin-A while you’re pregnant. Isotretinoin (Absorica, Claravis) — an oral medication in the same family as Retin-A — is known to cause birth defects. Much less topical tretinoin is absorbed through the skin. However, experts still recommend avoiding Retin-A during pregnancy out of caution. 

If you’re pregnant or planning a pregnancy, talk to your dermatologist about safer alternatives.

How to save on your Retin-A prescription

There are ways to save on Retin-A, which is available as both a brand-name and generic medication:

• Save with GoodRx. GoodRx may help you save up to 85% off the average retail price of tretinoin. Generic Retin-A cream may be as low as $35.00 with a free GoodRx discount. The brand-name version may be as low as $47.68.

• Compare pharmacy prices. When using GoodRx, prices may vary among pharmacies. Check the price at multiple locations to help you find the most affordable option.

Why trust our experts?

Written by:

Rachel Feaster, PharmD, BCOP, BCPS

Rachel Feaster has over 10 years of professional experience in ambulatory, inpatient, pharmacogenomics, and oncology care. She is board certified in oncology and pharmacotherapy.

Edited by:

Sophie Vergnaud, MD

Sophie Vergnaud, MD, is the Senior Medical Director for GoodRx Health. A pulmonologist and hospitalist, she practiced and taught clinical medicine at hospitals in London for a decade before entering a career in health education and technology.

Reviewed by:

Maria Robinson, MD, MBA

Maria Robinson, MD, MBA, is a board-certified dermatologist and dermatopathologist who has practiced dermatology and dermatopathology for over 10 years across private practice, academic, and telehealth settings. She is a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology and the American Society of Dermatopathology.

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