Tretinoin vs. Retinol: What Do Doctors Actually Recommend?
When it comes to skincare, it seems like we’re all looking for the fountain of youth in a bottle. While it doesn’t exist (yet), a regular skincare routine can help you keep your skin looking its best. In addition to using a sunscreen, cleanser, and moisturizer daily, adding a retinoid to your routine can promote brighter, healthier skin.
Retinoids have been used since 1971 as a local treatment for acne and fast-turnover skin cells. These products also stimulate collagen. Tretinoin was the first retinoid approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, but it’s no longer the only retinoid in the game. Retinol is also quite popular, partly because it’s available over the counter. Depending on your specific needs and skin type, a medical professional such as a dermatologist may recommend one of these products over the other.
What is tretinoin?
Like all retinoids, tretinoin is a synthetic form of vitamin A. This particular medication is primarily used as an acne treatment, although it can also be used by patients who want to remove unwanted skin discoloration, sun spots, and fine lines. The tretinoin formula is so strong that it is only available by prescription. The medication works by quickly turning older skin cells into new cells and keep skin pores cleanYou can get the current treatment in the following strengths: 0.01%, 0.02%, 0.025%, 0.05%, 0.08% and 0.10%.
Benefits of Tretinoin
Tretinoin has several benefits. Doctor John Lowe at Restore Care explains that the drug can reduce puffiness, stop blackheads from forming, protect pores from clogging, and promote collagen synthesis to erase wrinkles. He says the potent retinoid can also help erase dark spots, noting, “This is especially helpful for people with hyperpigmented skin lesions due to sun exposure and melasma, as it can dramatically change their complexion if used continuously.” In other words, you may be able to reduce the appearance of some sun damage.
Tretinoin side effects
You can expect to experience side effects from using tretinoin, given its strength. According to a evaluation of scientific trials Published in the International Journal of Women’s Dermatology, the most common side effects of tretinoin use are dryness, flaking, burning, and erythema (redness). Lowe notes that side effects are often most noticeable in the first few weeks of treatment. This product can also make your skin sensitive to the sun.
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What is retinol?
Retinol is a less potent retinoid that is often added to over-the-counter skin care products such as serums and lotions. Dr. Steve Gendron of Mindful Living Choice, who has a doctorate in physiology-endocrinology, calls retinol tretinoin’s “gentle cousin.” He points out that it is less potent, so it “works more gradually and gives you results without the harsh side effects.”
Benefits of retinol
A 2015 study in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology concluded that “topical application of retinol significantly affects both cellular and molecular properties of the epidermis and dermis.” In other words, a topical retinol product can affect both your outer and middle layers of skin. Like tretinoin, these products can help you reduce wrinkles and discoloration. It just takes longer to see results.
Side effects of retinol
Retinol has similar side effects to tretinoin, but they tend to be milder if they occur at all. Gendron says that many people can expect some irritation, noting that “you may experience some dryness and flaking, but that’s usually milder than with tretinoin.” Because retinol can also make you sensitive to the sun, it’s essential to wear sunscreen every day.
Differences between tretinoin and retinol
While these two types of retinoids serve a similar purpose, there are two key differences: how strong they are and how quickly they work.
Potential: Tretinoin is stronger than retinol. If you get both products in a 0.05% strength, the tretinoin will have a more significant effect on your skin.
Speed: Because tretinoin is much stronger, results are seen faster. Doctors may recommend it for people with severe skin conditions who don’t see results quickly enough or at all with weaker products.
Differences between tretinoin and retinol
| Tretinoin | Retinol |
|---|---|
| Works within weeks | Works within months |
| Treats acne, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation and low collagen levels | Treats fine lines, mild discoloration and low collagen levels |
| Available by prescription only | Available without a prescription |
| Side effects include sun sensitivity, redness, flaking, burning, dryness | Side effects include some irritation, mild flaking, and sun sensitivity. |
Who is tretinoin suitable for?
This product is ideal for those with more stubborn skin issues. Lowe says, “People who suffer from severe acne, severe signs of photoaging, or hyperpigmentation will find tretinoin to be a good option.”
However, you should also consider the potential side effects before trying it. The strength of the product means that you’ll need to take extra good care of your face. The doctor warns that patients who request this topical treatment should be prepared to “commit to strict skin care regimens.” He says that using gentle cleansers and moisturizers can help people avoid unnecessary irritation.
The Mayo Clinic warns that people who use certain products should stop using it when starting tretinoin or consider using a strong retinoid. Tretinoin may be too strong for people using products such as:
- Hair removal products
- Current products with a high concentration of alcohol
- Topical products containing a peeling agent (including salicylic acid)
- Skin products with herbs, lime or other sun-sensitive ingredients
Combining a strong retinoid with the above types of products may lead to increased skin irritation or pain.
Who is retinol suitable for?
Retinol is the better product for those with very sensitive skin, as its potency is much lower than prescription retinoids. While you may want to consult a dermatologist or your primary care physician before using a retinoid, you can start with a low concentration of retinol at home with little risk in most cases.
“Retinol’s mildness makes it a preferred choice for sensitive skin. By using retinol, people with retinoid-sensitive skin can enjoy the benefits without the significant irritation that tretinoin causes,” says Lowe.
For those looking to treat mild signs of aging or imperfect but acne-free skin, retinol may be the obvious choice. Gendron agrees, adding, “Retinol wins the race for sensitive skin because it’s less likely to cause irritation and redness. It’s a gentler option that still delivers big benefits without overwhelming delicate skin.”
Prescription vs. Over-the-Counter
Tretinoin is available by prescription only. A dermatologist, physician, or nurse practitioner with prescribing authority can prescribe this product. The product is gate-knead due to its strength and the need for continued supervision.
The good news is that generic tretinoin may be covered by your insurance plan. According to GoodRx, you can get a 1.5 ounce tube of generic 0.025% tretinoin for as low as $42although prices vary depending on your region and insurance, Nurx advertises the product for just $30 per month. Without any insurance or discount, the selling price is over $100However, one tube can last for many months, as you only need a pea-sized drop to cover your entire face.
Because retinol products are less potent, you can buy them at any drugstore or beauty department. And even better, there are lots of options. You can’t get insurance coverage for over-the-counter options, but retinol products start at around $10.
Key Conclusions on Retinoids
Retinoids can make your skin look younger and clear up your skin within months. Before you decide which product is best for you, remember:
- Tretinoin is more potent than retinol and requires a prescription. It may not be suitable for very sensitive skin.
- Retinol is available over the counter, but it takes patience to see results. It can take several months before you see results.
- Both tretinoin and retinol make you more sensitive to the sun. When using these products, especially tretinoin, you should wear sunscreen every day.
- Continue using other skin care products. Retinoids are not an all-in-one product, so you will still want to use a gentle cleanser and moisturizer to care for your skin while using tretinoin or retinol.
