An Updated Review of Topical Tretinoin in Dermatology: From Acne and Photoaging to Skin Cancer

    November 2025 in “ Journal of Clinical Medicine ”
    Pablo Balado-Simó, Daniel Morgado-Carrasco, Sara Gómez-Armayones, Anna López Ferrer, Didac Barco, Carla Ferrándiz‐Pulido, Sebastian Podlipnik
    TLDR Topical tretinoin effectively treats acne and photoaging, with potential for other skin conditions, but more research is needed.
    Topical tretinoin is a vitamin A derivative effective in treating acne vulgaris and photoaging, with additional potential uses in various dermatological conditions such as melasma, alopecia areata, and androgenetic alopecia. While robust data from RCTs support its use in acne and photoaging, smaller studies suggest benefits for other conditions, though more high-quality trials are needed for definitive guidelines. A large RCT found no preventive effect on keratinocyte carcinomas. Adverse effects are generally mild and localized, with no evidence of systemic issues.
    Discuss this study in the Community →

    Related Community Posts Join

    6 / 1000+ results

    Similar Research

    5 / 920 results
      Liposomes in Cosmeceuticals

      research Liposomes in Cosmeceuticals

      111 citations , March 2012 in “Expert Opinion on Drug Delivery”
      Liposomes could improve how skin care products work but are costly and not very stable.
      Off-Label Uses of Retinoids in Dermatology

      research Off-Label Uses of Retinoids in Dermatology

      6 citations , September 2012 in “Our Dermatology Online”
      Retinoids are effective for various skin conditions and hair loss but have serious side effects, so low doses are recommended.
      Cosmeceuticals in Dermatology

      research Cosmeceuticals in Dermatology

      1 citations , January 2013 in “Springer eBooks”
      Cosmeceuticals may benefit skin health but need more research for efficacy and safety confirmation.