Rx
Generic Retin-A®

Tretinoin cream for acne and anti-aging

4.8
26,564 Nurx Reviews
Based on all Nurx reviews, not any one product

Tretinoin is a retinoid that treats

  • Acne, dark spots, and hyperpigmentation.
  • Fine lines, wrinkles, and signs of premature aging
  • Topical cream

    $30/month

    As low as $0/mo with insurance for acne treatment. Insurance is not accepted for anti-aging treatment.

    This treatment requires an online consultation with a Nurx medical provider. If prescribed, they'll continually check in to ensure your treatment is working.* Cost may vary based on your insurance coverage, price not guaranteed. Not all insurance plans are accepted. Medication costs vary based on prescribed treatment and applicable insurance coverage and are shipped and billed every 3 months. Additional costs apply, including a consultation and periodic support fee.

    How tretinoin treats acne & reduces signs of aging*

    • Reverses and prevents fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, and dark spots
    • Unblocks pores that cause whiteheads and blackheads
    • Reverses skin aging related to sun exposure
    • Smooths skin texture
    DID YOU KNOW?

    20x stronger

    Tretinoin is 20 times stronger than over-the-counter retinols.

    80% reduction

    Improves small acne blemishes by up to 80% in 12 weeks*

    Real patient stories

    REAL RESULTS

    Shannon, Nurx patient

    REAL RESULTS

    Nathalia, Nurx patient

    The science behind it

    FACT 01

    Speeds up the renewal process

    Tretinoin increases collagen production and speeds up the skin’s natural renewal process to reveal fresh new skin.

    FACT 02

    Unblocks pores

    It stimulates cell growth and exfoliation while decreasing the buildup of dead cells that can clog pores.

    Fact 03

    Visible results over time

    Generally, it takes 3-6 months of regular use to notice skin improvement, with best results in 6-12 months.*

    How to use tretinoin

    Consistency is key to maximizing the effectiveness of your acne treatment.

    Drug facts

    Step 1

    Each night, apply a pea-sized amount evenly to clean skin and allow it to dry.

    Step 2

    Follow up with a layer of moisturizer.

    Step 3

    In the morning, apply sunscreen as tretinoin makes skin more sensitive to UV rays.

    How Nurx works

    1

    Request treatment

    Complete our online medical consultation, which asks questions about your health history and skin concerns.

    2

    Connect with a provider

    After evaluating your consultation, a provider licensed in your state will prescribe treatment (if clinically appropriate).

    3

    Get it delivered

    We’ll send a 3-month supply to your doorstep and check in with you to see how it’s working. Pause or cancel anytime.

    100%

    online expert-level care

    2+ million

    Nurx patients served

    Why Nurx?

    Affordable

    Quality treatment at an attainable price

    Convenient

    Easy refills & shipping to your door

    Personalized

    Providers help you find the right treatment

    Supportive

    Unlimited messaging for any questions, anytime

    Common questions

    • How do I use tretinoin?

      Tretinoin should be used once daily at bedtime. To use tretinoin cream, simply wash your face with a mild facial cleanser. Make sure your skin is dry before using the product. Then, take a pea-sized amount of tretinoin and apply a thin layer to your skin. We recommend following up with a layer of moisturizer for acne-prone skin.

      Tretinoin can make your skin more sensitive to UV light. Using tretinoin at night lowers your risk of sun damage. During the daylight hours, protect your skin from sunburn and sun damage by wearing protective clothing, hats, and sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.

      Avoid getting tretinoin in your eyes, ears, mouth, and nose. Tretinoin should be stored tightly closed, at room temperature, in its original container.

    • How long does tretinoin take to work?

      If you are new to tretinoin, you may be surprised to experience more blemishes after using the product for three to six weeks. This is a normal part of the skin renewal process. Don't give up! Most people see a noticeable improvement in their complexion after using tretinoin for 6 to 12 weeks.

    • How often should I use tretinoin?

      Tretinoin should be applied once at night. It should not be used during the day as it can increase sensitivity to the sun.

    • Does tretinoin help with wrinkles?

      Because it speeds up cell turnover, tretinoin can make your skin look brighter and younger. Tretinoin also increases your skin's production of collagen, a vital component in young, healthy skin.

    • Which tretinoin cream is right for me?

      Your Nurx provider can help you determine if the 0.025%, 0.05% or 0.1% tretinoin cream is best for you based on your symptoms and medical history.

    • Does tretinoin help with acne scars?

      If breakouts have left you with uneven, bumpy skin and scars, tretinoin can help. Tretinoin helps flatten acne scars and lighten dark patches, making scars less noticeable. Tretinoin is most effective on newer, smaller acne scars.

    • What precautions should I take when using tretinoin?

      As with any prescription medication, discuss your medications, allergies, and treatment options with your doctor or a Nurx provider before using tretinoin cream. If your skin is irritated or sunburned, you may need to allow your skin to heal before beginning treatment. Your medical provider can advise you when to add tretinoin to your skin care regimen.

      Tretinoin cream can make your skin more sensitive to ultraviolet light. Using tretinoin at night lowers your risk of sun damage. During the daylight hours, protect your skin from sunburn and sun damage by wearing protective clothing, hats, and sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Avoid spending time in tanning beds and under sunlamps. If you get sunburned or your skin becomes extremely red or blistered, stop tretinoin cream and contact your healthcare professional immediately.

      Some tretinoin users experience new or increased sensitivity to extreme weather conditions, such as low temperatures or high winds. Wear protective clothing to stay comfortable during cold or windy weather.

      When using tretinoin, your facial cleansers and cosmetics should be gentle, non-abrasive, and non-drying. Confused about which products to use? Your Nurx provider can help you choose products that maximize the benefits of tretinoin and minimize unpleasant side effects.

      Tretinoin should not be used by patients who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to conceive. If this applies to you, then your provider may help you find an alternative treatment that is safe to use.

    • Does tretinoin have any known side effects?

      Like every topical retinoid, tretinoin use may cause side effects. Most of the side effects caused by tretinoin are mild and include drying, flaking, or peeling skin. These effects can be managed by using more moisturizer and using the medication less frequently such as every other night when first starting. You may also experience a mild, temporary stinging or warming sensation when applying tretinoin. Skin treated with tretinoin is more prone to sunburn Repeated use of tretinoin may also cause temporary lightening or darkening of the skin. Most people using tretinoin find that side effects lessen as their skin adjusts to treatment. These mild side effects generally dissipate when tretinoin is no longer used.

      Although severe reactions are uncommon, possible serious side effects include itching, hives, and pain. These side effects are usually a result of an allergic reaction. Such reactions to tretinoin are considered rare. If you are allergic to drugs that contain Vitamin A, you may be at higher risk for an allergic reaction.

    • Can I use tretinoin cream with other medications?

      Tretinoin is generally compatible with other medications. To prevent excessive dryness and irritation, avoid using facial cleansers, toners, and cosmetics that contain sulfur, salicylic acid, or resorcinol. Never combine tretinoin with products containing benzoyl peroxide, as they diminish tretinoin's effectiveness and can result in dryness.

      Topical products that may interact with tretinoin include perm solutions, medicated cleansers, exfoliating soaps, alpha hydroxy acid, glycolic acid, and products that contain alcohol, lime, or menthol. Using these products with tretinoin can cause excessive redness, irritation, and peeling.

    DR. PETER YOUNG, MEDICAL DIRECTOR

    Meet your medical team

    Peter Young, MD is the Medical Director for Nurx’s Dermatology specialty. Dr. Young is a board-certified dermatologist who advises the Nurx medical team on how to provide the highest quality of care for dermatology conditions through telehealth.

    †Tretinoin Cream (0.025%, 0.05%, and 0.1%), Rx only, treats acne vulgaris, and may cause side effects, including drying, flaking, or peeling skin. If you would like to learn more about Tretinoin Cream, please see the full prescription information here. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit MedWatch: https://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch/default.htm or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
    *Individual results may vary.
    ‡The information provided here is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You should not rely upon the content provided here for specific medical advice. If you have any questions or concerns, please talk to your provider.
    ◊Services not offered in every state. Medications prescribed only if clinically appropriate, based on completion of the required consultation.

    Exceptional care at every step

    At Nurx, we make it easy to get the expert healthcare you deserve. From schedules to health history, everybody is different—so we provide treatment and care that’s personalized to you. Through life’s cycles, changes, and transitions, we’re here to help you make informed choices about your health.

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