Tretoin 0.1% Gel

Description

About Tretoin 0.1% Gel

Tretoin 0.1% Gel is a prescription topical gel containing tretinoin 0.1%, made by HAB Pharmaceuticals and Research Ltd, used to treat acne vulgaris in oily, acne-prone skin. It combines the highest usual concentration of tretinoin with a light, non-greasy gel base, so it is aimed at experienced retinoid users rather than beginners.

Gel or cream: which suits your skin?

Gels feel lighter, dry quickly and leave no film, which many people with oily skin prefer. However, gel bases, particularly those containing alcohol, tend to be more drying and can sting more than creams at the same concentration. Creams are kinder to dry, sensitive or mature skin. If you already have flaky or easily irritated skin, a cream such as Tretoin 0.05% Cream may be a better fit; your prescriber can advise.

How does tretinoin work?

Tretinoin is a retinoid, or vitamin A acid. It regulates turnover of the cells lining the follicle, dissolving the cohesive plugs that trap sebum and form the first stage of acne lesions. As the follicles clear, blackheads, whiteheads and inflamed papules gradually reduce, and oily skin often looks less congested.

How to apply Tretoin 0.1% Gel

• Apply once daily at night to clean skin that has dried completely, as gel on damp skin increases stinging.
• Gels spread easily, so a pea-sized amount, or even slightly less, covers the whole face.
• Smooth on a thin, even layer; if it looks white or feels sticky, you have used too much.
• Keep it away from the eyes, lips, nose creases and mucous membranes.
• Wash your hands after use, and apply SPF 30+ sunscreen every morning.

Your prescriber may suggest alternate nights for the first two weeks, then nightly use as your skin adjusts.

How long does it take to work?

Skin may look worse before it looks better: new spots in weeks 2–6 are common as deeper plugs come up. Visible improvement usually appears at 6–8 weeks, with the full response assessed at around 12 weeks.

What are the side effects?

At 0.1% in a gel base, dryness, peeling, redness and burning are more likely than with lower strengths or creams. Treated skin sunburns easily and may react to wind and cold. Pigment changes are possible. Seek urgent medical help for swelling of the face, lips or throat, hives or wheezing, and see a doctor promptly for blistering or crusting.

Who should not use it?

Do not use Tretoin gel in pregnancy or if planning a pregnancy, and get advice before using it while breastfeeding. Avoid it on eczema, rosacea, sunburn or broken skin, and in children under 12. Do not apply it at the same time as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid or sulfur products, and tell your prescriber if you take tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones or other sun-sensitizing medicines.

Pack sizes and storage

Each tube holds 20 g of gel, sold in packs of 3, 6 or 9 tubes, from $14. Keep the cap tightly closed and store below 77°F (25°C); if the label says the gel contains alcohol, keep it away from naked flames.

Frequently asked questions

Is there a 0.1% cream instead?

Yes, Tretinoin 0.1% Cream has the same strength in a cream base.

Are there other tretinoin gels?

A Ret Gel 0.1% is another tretinoin gel; compare options in the acne category.

Can I use it only on spots?

No. Apply it thinly across the whole acne-prone area, because it works by preventing new blockages as well as clearing visible ones.

Not a substitute for professional advice. Tretoin 0.1% Gel is a prescription medicine, so check with a doctor or pharmacist before use.