Tretinoin topical

Tretinoin is a type of retinoid medication commonly used topically to treat signs of acne and/or photoaging. It can also be taken orally for moderate to severe cystic acne and acute promyelocytic leukemia, among other conditions. As a topical, it’s sold as generic tretinoin or under the brand name Retin-A^®.

There is limited research on the off-label use of topical tretinoin for hair loss. Some small studies suggest that combining tretinoin with topical minoxidil boosts the effectiveness of minoxidil, particularly in people who don’t see promising results from using minoxidil alone. The theory is that this combination promotes hair regrowth because the tretinoin enhances the absorption of the minoxidil. 

Limited evidence supports the use of tretinoin as a standalone treatment for hair loss. Overall, more high-quality research is needed to better understand tretinoin’s potential role in treating hair loss.

On a related note, hair loss is a known side effect of oral tretinoin, although this effect is not associated with topical use of tretinoin.

Tretinoin topical has many different types and names. The information below is about Retin-A Micro^®.

Retin-A Micro (tretinoin) is indicated:

• For topical treatment of acne vulgaris

Retinoid

Most common adverse reactions are:

• Skin pain

• Itchiness

• Skin irritation/Subcutaneous irritation

• Inflammation of the throat

• Redness

The cost of generic tretinoin or brand-name Retin-A varies depending on the strength of the product, where you buy it, and your health insurance coverage. Without insurance, the average retail price of tretinoin cream is about $120 per 45-gram tube, but many pharmacy coupons are available to bring down the price as low as $35. The average retail price of Retin-A is about $95 for the same quantity, but coupons may bring down the price as low as about $31. Insurance may cover some or all of this cost, depending on your plan.

• Retin-A Micro should not be used on eczematous or sunburned skin due to potential for severe irritation

• Avoid unprotected exposure to sunlight including sunlamps (UV light), when using Retin-A Micro due to potential for increased photosensitization. Use sunscreen of at least SPF 15 and protective clothing during exposure

• Avoid use of Retin-A Micro with weather extremes, such as wind or cold due to potential for increased irritation

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Retin-A Micro should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant and nursing women

*This information is from the label for brand name Retin-A Micro^®. See the Full Prescribing Information for more complete information. Tretinoin, the active ingredient in Retin-A Micro, may also be the active ingredient in other medications, and this information may not be accurate for all medications that include the active ingredient tretinoin.