Tretinoin Cream, USP (Emollient) 0.05% is a medication used to treat acne and sun-damaged skin. It is a synthetic version of vitamin A, specifically all-trans-retinoic acid, and is available in a water-in-oil emulsion formulation. The cream contains the following ingredients:
- Active ingredient: Tretinoin (0.05% w/w)
- Cream base: Butylated hydroxytoluene, citric acid monohydrate, dimethicone 50 cs, edetate disodium, fragrance, hydroxyoctacosanyl hydroxystearate, light mineral oil, methoxy PEG-22/dodecyl glycol copolymer, methylparaben, PEG-45/dodecyl glycol copolymer, purified water, quaternium-15, stearoxytrimethylsilane, and stearyl alcohol, and sorbitol solution.
The transdermal absorption of tretinoin from various topical formulations ranged from 1% to 31% of the applied dose, depending on whether it was applied to healthy skin or dermatitic skin. When percutaneous absorption of Tretinoin Cream, USP (Emollient) 0.05% was assessed in healthy male subjects, the absorption was not specified.
Tretinoin cream works by:
- Reducing inflammation associated with acne
- Preventing follicular plugging
- Exfoliating the skin.
It is important to note that tretinoin may speed up the development of skin tumors, according to data from an FDA study on retinoid ingredients. Additionally, tretinoins safety during pregnancy has not been fully evaluated, so it is essential to discuss its use with a doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
To reduce the risk of skin irritations, such as dryness or peeling, burning, and stinging, it is recommended to improve the skin barrier function during the application of retinoids. A clinical study has shown that a cream with niacinamide enhances skin barrier function before the application of 0.025% tretinoin and significantly reduces skin irritation.
