Top brand choice
Top Generic choice
A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Retin A Gel is prescribed for the treatment of acne. It can reduce the quantity and intensity of acne pimples while also facilitating the speedy recovery of any existing pimples. This medicine is a Vitamin A derivative that is classified as a retinoid medication and operates by influencing the growth of skin cells.
Fact Table | |
---|---|
Formula | C20H28O2 |
License | US FDA |
Bioavailability | less than 2% |
Legal status | Rx-Only |
Chemical Name | Tretinoin |
Elimination half-life | 0.5-2 hours |
Dosage (Strength) | 0.025% (30grams), 0.025% (20grams), 0.05% (60grams), 0.1% (60grams) |
Pregnancy | consult a healthcare provider |
Brands | Retin A Gel |
Protein binding | Greater than 95% |
PubChem CID | 444795 |
MedlinePlus | a608032 |
ChEBI | 15367 |
ATC code | D10AD01 |
DrugBank | DB00755 |
KEGG | D00094 |
Routes of administration | Topical |
Use Retin A tretinoin gel according to your doctor's instructions.
Before and after applying the medication, make sure to wash your hands.
Cleanse the affected skin and gently pat it dry. Apply a thin layer of the gel to the affected skin and gently rub it in.
Only apply it to your skin and avoid ingestion. Keep it away from your mouth, nose, and eyes to prevent burning.
Apply the gel at bedtime.
Retin A gel is formulated with tretinoin, also known as retinoic acid or vitamin A acid. It is available in two strengths, either 0.025% or 0.01% by weight.
If you have a reaction indicating sensitivity or irritation, stop using the medication.
Minimize exposure to sunlight and sunlamps while using Retin A.
Extreme weather conditions like wind or cold can also irritate the skin during Retin A treatment.
Take caution as the gel is flammable; avoid using it near an open flame or while smoking.
Be cautious when using other topical medications, medicated or abrasive soaps and cleansers, drying soaps and cosmetics, and products with high levels of astringents, alcohol, spices, or lime along with tretinoin, as they may interact. Take special care when using products containing sulfur, resorcinol, or salicylic acid with Retin A gel 0.025. It's recommended to allow the effects of these preparations to fade before starting to use Retin A on the skin.
Some individuals with sensitive skin may experience side effects like excessive redness, swelling, blistering, or crusting when using this medication. Before you buy Retin A gel, it is recommended you talk to your doctor about the potential side effects and get a dosage level that can be tolerated without any of these adverse effects.
How to apply Retin-A gel?
To apply Retin-A gel wash your face and let it dry. Take a pea-sized amount of Retin-A gel and apply small dots on the areas you want to treat. Gently spread the gel with clean fingertips and allow the gel to dry for 15-30 minutes.
Is Retin-A stronger than retinol?
Yes, Retin-A is stronger than retinol. Retin-A is a prescription-strength retinoid, while retinol is available over the counter and is milder. Consult a dermatologist to determine which is best for your needs.
Is it safe to use Retin-A daily?
Yes, it is safe to use Retin-A daily, but it may not be preferable initially, and some individuals may choose to avoid it altogether. Retin-A has the potential to induce skin irritation and peeling, particularly during the initial usage phase. To mitigate these effects, it is advisable to start gradually, employing it every third night, then progressing to every other night, and eventually incorporating it into your nightly routine as your skin adjusts and tolerates it.
Do you put moisturizer over Retin?
Yes, it is generally recommended to apply moisturizer over Retin-A. Retin-A can cause dryness, flaking, or sensitivity in the skin, and moisturizers can help hydrate and soothe the skin.
Does Retin-A remove dark spots?
Retin-A can help fade dark spots and hyperpigmentation over time by promoting cell turnover and skin exfoliation. Results vary and may take time.