Retinol and tretinoin are both chemical compounds derived from vitamin A. Tretinoin is a pharmaceutical form of retinoic acid available only by prescription. It is frequently prescribed for acne, but also helps improve fine lines, wrinkles, and skin discoloration. Though highly effective, this topical treatment can cause unwanted side effects including redness, peeling, and dryness.¹ Topical retinol, on the other hand, is available for purchase without a prescription as an over the counter (OTC) retinol cream. While it functions similarly to tretinoin, research has shown that it is potentially less irritating.²
For the appropriate recommendation on which form of vitamin A product is best suited to your specific skin needs, please consult a skincare professional.
¹Reference: Drugs.com; Tretinoin topical side effects; ref: "Product Information. Retin-A (tretinoin)." Ortho Pharmaceutical Corporation, Raritan, NJ.
² Reference: J Invest Dermatol. 1995 Oct;105(4):549-56. Application of retinol to human skin in vivo induces epidermal hyperplasia and cellular retinoid binding proteins characteristic of retinoic acid but without measurable retinoic acid levels or irritation. Kang S1, Duell EA, Fisher GJ, Datta SC, Wang ZQ, Reddy AP, Tavakkol A, Yi JY, Griffiths CE, Elder JT, et al.