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Skin & Hair
Tretinoin
Tretinoin · Topical retinoid
A topical retinoid used for acne.
- Partner pharmacy
- Personal assistance
- Discreet delivery
- Active ingredientTretinoin
- AdministrationApplied to the skin
Shipping & Delivery
- Normally dispatched within 24 hours of payment confirmation.
- UPS Express · C$25 · Approx. 7–9 business days
- Registered Mail · C$15 · Approx. 14–20 business days
What Tretinoin is
Tretinoin is a retinoid (a vitamin A derivative) applied to the skin. It is used for acne, as set out in the product information of each topical formulation.
Suitability and dosing are decided by a prescriber on the basis of the approved product information.
A retinoid applied to the skin
Tretinoin is a derivative of vitamin A. Applied to the skin, it normalizes the shedding of cells lining the hair follicle, which prevents and clears the blocked pores (comedones) from which acne develops.
FollicleNormal shedding; fewer blocked pores.
TimescaleImprovement over weeks to months; acne may look worse at first.
Topical retinoids are a core part of acne treatment in clinical guidelines.1
Side effects and warnings
Local side effects are common, especially at the start:
- Redness, peeling, dryness and stinging
- Increased sensitivity to sunlight
- A temporary worsening of acne in the first weeks
ImportantNot for use during pregnancy. Avoid the eyes, mouth and broken skin, and use sun protection. Always read the patient information leaflet.
Product information
Patient information leafletSupplied by the partner pharmacy
Summary of Product CharacteristicsOfficial product information
Common questions
Do I need a prescription?
Tretinoin is a prescription-only medicine. After your request, the partner pharmacy verifies whether and how supply is possible, for example through an existing prescription or an assessment by an independent doctor where permitted.
Why may acne look worse at first?
Tretinoin brings existing blocked pores to the surface. A temporary worsening in the first weeks is described in the product information.
Do I need sun protection?
Yes. Tretinoin makes the skin more sensitive to sunlight, so exposure should be limited and sun protection used.
Do I pay when I send a request?
No. Payment is arranged individually with customer service once your request has been reviewed and can proceed.
Sources
- Zaenglein AL, et al. Guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2016;74:945–973.
- Tretinoin topical: Summary of Product Characteristics.
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