Authority source
Safety basis: FDA
FDA assessment
Tretinoin
Retin-ARetinoinVesanoid
Retinoid
Tretinoin is a type of vitamin A that helps skin cells grow and work properly. It's often used to treat acne, fine lines, and skin discoloration.
What it is
Tretinoin is a synthetic derivative of vitamin A that helps regulate skin cell growth and turnover.
Found in
acne treatments, anti-aging creams, skin exfoliants
The concern
Tretinoin can cause skin irritation, redness, and increased sun sensitivity, especially when used in high concentrations or without proper sun protection.
Legal status
Approved by FDA for topical use in acne and skin aging treatments, but may require prescription and have specific usage guidelines.
Context-dependent
Tretinoin can cause skin irritation, redness, and increased sun sensitivity, especially when used in high concentrations or without proper sun protection.
Evidence & sources
Article / explainer
Article / explainer
No highly relevant article explainer found yet.
Community questions
Community questions
Community discussions are not used as safety evidence and no highly relevant discussion is shown for this ingredient.
Related ingredient guides
Compare this ingredient with related ingredients and common alternatives.
Retinol
Another retinoid or retinoid-adjacent ingredient commonly compared in skincare routines.
Retinal
Another retinoid or retinoid-adjacent ingredient commonly compared in skincare routines.
Retinyl Palmitate
Another retinoid or retinoid-adjacent ingredient commonly compared in skincare routines.
Adapalene
Another retinoid or retinoid-adjacent ingredient commonly compared in skincare routines.
Bakuchiol
Another retinoid or retinoid-adjacent ingredient commonly compared in skincare routines.
Niacinamide
Another retinoid or retinoid-adjacent ingredient commonly compared in skincare routines.
Last updated: June 9, 2026