Tretinoin has a history of over 40 years as one of the most powerful and widely used skincare treatments. It is known for its ability to combat acne, reduce signs of aging and fade hyperpigmentation.

One of the biggest challenges with tretinoin is understanding the different strengths and determining the right dosage for your needs. With various formulations — creams, gels and different concentrations — it can be overwhelming to know where to start.

In this guide, we’ll break down tretinoin strengths, dosages and how to adjust them for different skin concerns. The goal is that you’ll feel confident in discussing with your provider the perfect tretinoin strength and formula to achieve your skin care goals.

How Tretinoin Dosing Works

The strength of topical tretinoin is measured in terms of its concentration percentage. Generally, tretinoin comes in strengths of 0.025%, 0.05% and 0.1%. Your provider may suggest starting at a lower concentration and moving up as your skin adjusts.¹

Higher strengths of tretinoin can be more potent and deliver faster results. However, the risk of irritation or other side effects increases with the concentration.²

Tretinoin Cream Strengths and Dosages

Tretinoin cream is prescribed to treat acne and signs of aging like fine lines, wrinkles and hyperpigmentation. Strengths and dosages will depend on individual prescriptions. Common strengths of tretinoin cream include:³

• 0.025%

• 0.05%

• 0.1%

With tretinoin cream, you can have a higher concentration of retinoid with less skin irritation than gel. Tretinoin cream is generally better tolerated by individuals with dry skin types because it contains moisturizers and is water-based.⁴

Tretinoin Gel Strengths and Dosages

Tretinoin gel is primarily prescribed to treat acne, although it can be effective in reducing signs of aging.⁵ Common strengths of tretinoin gel include:⁶

• 0.01%

• 0.025%

Tretinoin gel is alcohol-based, which could make it preferable to oily and acne-prone skin. Gel is less likely to make the skin shiny after use.⁷

Are generic tretinoin strengths the same as name brands like Retin-A^®?

Generic tretinoin is commonly prescribed in the same strengths as the name brands, such as Retin-A. Tretinoin cream is available in 0.025%, 0.05% and 0.1%. Tretinoin gel is available in 0.01% and 0.025% strengths.⁸

What tretinoin strengths are best for wrinkles and anti-aging?

The ideal strength of tretinoin for anti-aging purposes varies from individual to individual. In general, higher concentrations of tretinoin can deliver better results. However, higher concentrations are more irritating to skin. A study comparing 0.025% and 0.1% tretinoin yielded statistically similar results in skin improvements; however, the incidence of unwanted side effects was higher in the 0.1% group.⁹

For best results, beginners should start with a lower strength to allow the skin to adjust. Incremental increases can be made with your provider’s guidance.

What tretinoin strengths are best for acne?

Individual results will vary. Generally, higher concentrations of retinoids, such as tretinoin, are more effective in treating acne. Beginners and those with mild acne may find lower strengths of tretinoin like 0.025% to be effective.

Your provider may start you at 0.01% and increase the dosage if acne is moderate to severe. Starting with a lower concentration can help reduce adverse side effects. If tolerated well, your provider may increase strength to 0.025% or higher.¹⁰

What strength of tretinoin should I use?

The correct strength of tretinoin will vary among individuals and is determined by your health care provider. There are a few factors to consider:¹¹

• Concerns. Are you looking for anti-aging or acne treatment?

• Skin type. Do you have dry or oily skin? What is your age?

• Experience. Have you used a retinoid before or is this your first time?

Most users will benefit from starting at a lower strength and gradually increasing as skin adjusts. Start a consult for acne or anti-aging with a RedBox Rx provider to receive dosage recommendations for your specific skin care needs.

When should I increase or adjust the strength of tretinoin?

Always consult with your provider before changing the strength of tretinoin. A few things to consider about increasing your tretinoin dose:¹²

Give the medicine time. It may take 12 weeks or even longer to start to notice a significant difference in acne, and even longer for signs of aging from tretinoin.

Use a moisturizer. For best results, it is recommended to pair tretinoin with a moisturizer to minimize irritation and maintain healthy skin. For acne, water-based moisturizers are best. Oil-based moisturizers are best for anti-aging.

If you have followed the above and are still not seeing the results you would like, talk with your provider about switching tretinoin strength or trying a different product.

Start a consult for acne or anti-aging with a RedBox Rx dermatology provider to get dosage recommendations for your specific skin care needs.

Tretinoin Strength Chart

How RedBox Rx can help

RedBox Rx makes receiving treatment for acne, anti-aging or melasma (dark spots) easy and affordable.

Benefits of RedBox Rx include:

• Easy, affordable online doctor consultation for just $25.

• Tretinoin prescriptions starting at $20/month.

• No insurance required. FSA and HSA eligible.

• FREE shipping directly to you. One-time treatment and quarterly subscriptions available.

Get started treating your acne or signs of aging today by taking an easy online assessment.