Retin-A is the brand name for tretinoin. It is sold in three different topical forms:

• cream
• gel
• liquid solution

The cream comes in three concentrations: 0.025%, 0.05% or 0.1%. The alcohol-based gel comes in two concentrations: 0.01% or 0.025%. The liquid comes only in a 0.05% strength.

Retin-A Micro is a water-based (rather than alcohol-based) gel that comes in two concentrations: 0.1% and 0.04%.

How to Find the Right Dose?

Retin-A is generally applied once a day, at bedtime, using enough of the product to lightly cover the affected area. Avoid using excessive amounts of the cream on any skin surface. A doctor should decide which strength and form of Retin-A is right based on the specific condition.

Keep using Retin-A even if improvements are not noticed right away. It may take a few weeks until any big changes are seen. Using large amounts or applying it more than once a day will not make Retin-A work any faster or better, but it may increase the risk of side effects. Check with a doctor if no improvements are seen after 8 to 12 weeks.