Description
Same active ingredient (tretinoin) as Retin-A®, the US brand. Retino A Micro 0.04% is an Indian brand, made and licensed in India.
About Retino A Micro 0.04%
Retino A Micro 0.04% is a prescription gel containing tretinoin 0.04% in a microsphere base, made by Janssen Pharmaceuticals in India, used to treat acne vulgaris. It is the lower strength of the Retino A Micro range and is designed to deliver tretinoin gradually, which many people find kinder to their skin than conventional gels.
What makes the Micro formulation different?
In an ordinary gel or cream, all the tretinoin is available to the skin at once. In Retino A Micro, the drug is held inside tiny porous polymer beads (microspheres) suspended in a water-based gel. After application the beads sit in the surface layer and pores and release tretinoin over time, smoothing out the peak that triggers stinging and peeling. The gel is non-greasy and does not leave a shine, which suits oily and combination skin.
How does tretinoin clear acne?
Tretinoin, a vitamin A derivative, regulates the cells that line the hair follicle so they shed normally rather than forming a sticky plug. This clears blackheads and whiteheads, prevents new ones, and reduces the inflamed spots that develop from blocked pores.
How to use Retino A Micro 0.04%
- Apply once a day in the evening to skin that has been washed gently and dried.
- A pea-sized amount covers the face; spread a thin film over all areas prone to spots.
- Avoid the eyes, mouth, angles of the nose and mucous membranes.
- Use a light moisturizer if needed and a broad-spectrum sunscreen each morning.
- Do not use more than directed or apply it more than once a day.
How long does it take to work?
Clinical studies of microsphere tretinoin assessed results at 12 weeks. You may see some improvement after three to four weeks, but a few new spots can appear early on before the skin settles. Give it a full three months before judging, unless irritation is severe.
What are the side effects?
Mild redness, dryness, peeling, itching and a burning sensation are the most reported effects, usually in the first weeks. Sun sensitivity increases. Contact a doctor if you get severe irritation, blistering or signs of an allergic reaction such as facial swelling.
Who should not use it?
Do not use Retino A Micro if you are pregnant or trying for a baby, and ask your doctor about breastfeeding. It is not usually prescribed for children under 12. Avoid applying it to eczema, sunburnt, cut or grazed skin. Microsphere tretinoin appears less prone than conventional gels to being broken down by benzoyl peroxide, but only combine products your prescriber has approved. Avoid waxing, peels and abrasive cleansers on treated skin.
Pack sizes
Each tube holds 15 g, sold singly or in packs of 3 or 6, from $12. Store below 77°F (25°C) with the cap closed, and do not freeze.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a stronger Retino A Micro?
Yes, Retino A Micro 0.1%.
Is there another 0.04% gel?
Supatret 0.04% Gel from Sun Pharma has the same tretinoin concentration.
How does tretinoin fit into acne care?
Our tretinoin guide explains, and the acne category lists other options.
General information for patients, not a substitute for professional advice. Retino A Micro 0.04% is a prescription medicine.
Helpful guides
- Tretinoin for Acne: Strengths, How to Use It and What to ExpectA complete guide to tretinoin for acne: which strength to start with, how to apply it step by step, the purging timeline…