A Ret Gel 0.05%

Description

Same active ingredient (tretinoin) as Retin-A®, the US brand. A Ret Gel 0.05% is an Indian brand, made and licensed in India.

About A Ret Gel 0.05%

A Ret Gel 0.05% is a prescription topical gel containing tretinoin 0.05%, made by Menarini India Pvt Ltd, used to treat acne vulgaris, particularly blackheads, whiteheads and small red spots. It is the middle strength of the A Ret range, and dermatologists often move people onto it once the 0.025% gel has been used for a couple of months without troublesome irritation.

How does A Ret Gel work?

Tretinoin is the acid form of vitamin A and belongs to the retinoid family. Applied to the skin, it speeds up the turnover of cells lining each hair follicle, so they no longer stick together and form the microscopic plugs from which every acne spot begins. Existing blackheads and whiteheads loosen and clear, and fewer new ones form. Tretinoin does not kill bacteria, which is why doctors often pair it with benzoyl peroxide or a topical antibiotic when inflamed spots are prominent.

Why choose a gel?

The gel base feels light, dries quickly and leaves no greasy film, so it tends to suit oily or combination skin and humid climates. Gels can feel more drying than creams, though. If your skin is naturally dry or reacts easily, a cream such as Retino A Cream 0.025% may be more comfortable.

How to use A Ret Gel 0.05%

1. Wash with a mild, soap-free cleanser, pat dry and wait 20–30 minutes so the skin is completely dry; damp skin absorbs more and stings more.
2. Take a pea-sized blob of gel, which covers the whole face, and place small dabs across your forehead, both cheeks and your chin.
3. Spread it thinly over all acne-prone areas, not just individual spots, keeping clear of the eyes, lips and the creases beside the nose.
4. Use it once a day in the evening. Your prescriber may suggest alternate nights for the first week or two.
5. Wash your hands afterwards, and in the morning apply moisturizer and a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or more.

How long does it take to work?

Many people notice flaking and a temporary rise in spots during the first two to four weeks, as blocked pores surface. This is expected and usually settles. Clearer skin tends to show from around week six, and the full benefit is judged at about three months. Acne returns if treatment stops, so most people continue at a maintenance frequency agreed with their doctor.

What are the side effects?

• Common: redness, dryness, peeling, a warm or stinging feeling, and easier sunburn.
• Less common: temporary lightening or darkening of the skin, more noticeable in darker skin tones.

Stop and get medical advice if you develop severe burning, blistering, crusting or swelling, or signs of an allergic reaction such as a spreading rash or swollen eyes or lips.

Who should not use it?

Do not use tretinoin if you are pregnant or trying to conceive, and ask your doctor before using it while breastfeeding. Avoid it on eczema, sunburn, cuts or broken skin, and take extra care if you have rosacea. Apply benzoyl peroxide in the morning rather than at the same time, because it can break down conventional tretinoin. Avoid abrasive scrubs, astringents, peeling products and waxing on treated skin.

Pack sizes and storage

Each tube holds 20 g of gel, sold in packs of 3, 6 or 9 tubes, from $25. Store the tubes at room temperature, below 77°F (25°C), well away from radiators and direct heat.

Frequently asked questions

Is there a stronger A Ret gel?

Yes, A Ret Gel 0.1%, usually only after the 0.05% strength is well tolerated.

Can I start on a lower strength?

Many first-time users begin with A Ret Gel 0.025% and step up later.

Where can I read more about tretinoin?

Our guide to tretinoin for acne covers the basics, and the acne category lists related treatments.

This page is general information, not personal medical advice. A Ret Gel 0.05% is a prescription medicine; use it only as directed by your doctor or pharmacist.