Beauty Elixir

Retin-A, retinoic acid

Tretinoin: what to mix it with

The prescription-strength retinoid, and the gold standard for acne and photo-ageing, with decades of evidence. It works directly (no conversion needed), so it is stronger and more irritating than retinol or retinal.

Typical strength
0.025% – 0.1% (prescription)
Best time
PM
Irritation
Price in India
₹150 – ₹700
Helps with
Aging, acne, pigmentation and texture
Pregnancy
Usually avoided in pregnancy and breastfeeding

How to use Tretinoin

Use only as prescribed: a pea-sized amount on completely dry skin at night, starting 2–3 nights a week. Expect dryness and a possible purge for 4–8 weeks. Daily SPF is essential.

Pairs beautifully with

Hyaluronic Acid Ceramides Centella Asiatica Squalane Sunscreen Snail Mucin Panthenol Aloe Vera Urea Polyglutamic Acid

Don't mix with

Retinol Adapalene Benzoyl Peroxide Retinal

Use at different times from

Vitamin C Glycolic Acid Lactic Acid Mandelic Acid Salicylic Acid PHA Copper Peptides Sulfur

Safe to layer with

Niacinamide Azelaic Acid Peptides Bakuchiol Tranexamic Acid Alpha Arbutin Kojic Acid Vitamin E Ferulic Acid Hydroquinone Tea Tree Oil Licorice Extract Glutathione Zinc PCA

Guides

Ingredients for acne & breakoutsIngredients for dark spots, tanning & pigmentationIngredients for fine lines & anti-ageingIngredients for uneven texture & bumps Is Tretinoin safe in pregnancy?

Tretinoin vs alternatives

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