Product Specification

Product Description

Tretinoin Gel USP 0.025% is a topical prescription retinoid containing 0.025% tretinoin, a form of vitamin A used primarily in the treatment of acne vulgaris.

Tretinoin works by increasing skin-cell turnover and reducing the cohesiveness of cells within hair follicles, helping prevent the formation of microcomedones and clogged pores.  

With consistent use as directed by a healthcare professional, tretinoin can help improve comedonal and inflammatory acne. Acne can temporarily appear worse during the first several days of treatment before improvement occurs. MedlinePlus notes that acne may initially worsen during the first 7–10 days, while noticeable improvement may take several weeks. 

Important: This is a medication rather than an ordinary cosmetic skincare product. It should be used according to a doctor's or pharmacist's instructions.

Ingredients

Active Ingredient

Tretinoin USP 0.025% w/w
Equivalent to 0.25 mg tretinoin per gram of gel.  

Gel Base / Inactive Ingredients

For the commonly labeled 0.025% tretinoin gel formulation:

• Hydroxypropyl cellulose

• Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT)

• Alcohol 90% w/w

Recommended Use

Use only as directed by a healthcare professional.

For the labeled topical gel:

1. Gently cleanse the affected area with a mild cleanser.

2. Allow the skin to dry completely.

3. Apply a thin layer of tretinoin gel to the acne-affected area.

4. Usually apply once daily at bedtime, unless your prescriber gives different instructions.

5. Avoid the eyes, corners of the nose, mouth and mucous membranes.

6. Wash your hands after application.

Applying more product does not make tretinoin work faster and may increase irritation.  

During the daytime, use sun protection and minimize unnecessary UV exposure because tretinoin can make treated skin more susceptible to sun irritation. 

Skin Concerns

Primary concern:

• Acne vulgaris

Related acne concerns:

• Comedones

• Clogged pores

• Blackheads

• Whiteheads

• Acne breakouts

• Acne-prone skin

• Excess follicular plugging

Tretinoin's established labeled indication is acne vulgaris. Claims about treating other conditions should not be presented as established indications unless supported by the specific product labeling or a healthcare professional. 

Possible Side Effects

Common local reactions can include:

• Dry skin

• Peeling

• Scaling

• Flaking

• Redness

• Burning sensation

• Stinging

• Itching

• Skin irritation

These reactions can be particularly noticeable when treatment is first started.  

Some people may also experience an initial worsening of acne before improvement occurs.  

Seek medical advice if irritation becomes severe, persistent or concerning.

Precautions

• Prescription medication: Use under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional.

• For external use only.

• Do not swallow.

• Do not apply to the eyes, mouth, mucous membranes or corners of the nose.

• Do not apply to sunburned or severely irritated skin.

• Use caution on skin affected by eczema because severe irritation can occur.  

• Minimize unnecessary sun/UV exposure.

• Use sunscreen and protective clothing when exposed to sunlight.  

• Avoid harsh scrubs, abrasive cleansers and strongly drying products.

• Use caution when combining with other acne treatments such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, sulfur or resorcinol because irritation may increase.  

• Do not apply extra product to compensate for a missed dose.

• Keep tightly closed.

• Tretinoin gel is flammable. Keep away from fire, flame and smoking.  

• Keep out of reach of children.

• Tell your healthcare professional if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy or breastfeeding before using tretinoin. MedlinePlus specifically advises contacting a doctor if pregnancy occurs while using topical tretinoin.  

FAQs

1. What is Tretinoin Gel 0.025%?

It is a topical prescription retinoid containing 0.025% tretinoin, primarily indicated for the treatment of acne vulgaris.  

2. What does tretinoin do for acne?

It helps normalize skin-cell turnover and reduces the formation of clogged pores and microcomedones.  

3. How often should I apply tretinoin 0.025%?

The labeled gel regimen is generally once daily at bedtime, but follow the instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist.  

4. Can tretinoin make acne worse initially?

Yes. Some users experience increased redness, peeling or acne during the early phase of treatment. MedlinePlus reports that acne may worsen during the first 7–10 days.  

5. How long does tretinoin take to work?

Tretinoin works gradually. Acne may begin improving after several weeks, and continued regular use is important. 

6. Can I use tretinoin during the day?

The labeled gel is generally applied before bedtime. Daytime sun protection is important because tretinoin can increase sensitivity to UV exposure.  

7. Can I use other acne products with tretinoin?

Some combinations can increase irritation. Particular caution is advised with benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, sulfur, resorcinol, abrasive cleansers and products with high alcohol content. Ask a healthcare professional about combining treatments.  

8. Can I use tretinoin on sensitive or eczema-prone skin?

Extra caution is needed. Tretinoin can cause significant irritation, and official labeling warns about severe irritation on eczematous skin.  

9. Can pregnant women use tretinoin?

Pregnancy should be discussed with a healthcare professional before using tretinoin. If pregnancy occurs while using topical tretinoin, contact your doctor. 

10. Is Tretinoin 0.025% a moisturizer or cosmetic cream?

No. It is a medicated topical retinoid, not a regular moisturizer or cosmetic skincare product.

Disclaimer:

While we work to ensure that product information is correct, on occasion manufacturers may alter their ingredient lists. Actual product packaging and materials may contain more and/or different information than that shown on our Web site. We recommend that you do not solely rely on the information presented and that you always read labels, warnings, and directions before using or consuming a product. For additional information about a product, please contact the manufacturer.