Topical treatment for acne vulgaris. Available by prescription only; all Obagi tretinoin formulations are fragrance free.
Tretinoin is the generic name for synthetic, first-generation all-trans-retinoic acid. Topical tretinoin first arrived on the dermatology scene in the 1960s. It is a prescription drug approved to treat acne, and in a few other FDA-approved products (which does not apply to our tretinoin products) as an adjunctive agent to treat fine facial wrinkling for patients who use comprehensive skincare and sun avoidance programs.
Follow all instructions for use and dosage from your prescribing physician. After thoroughly cleansing your face at night, wait approximately 20 minutes. Wash and dry your hands, then apply the cream evenly over your entire face (and neck and/or chest if directed). Gently smooth in until absorbed, avoiding eyes and mouth. Do not apply to open wounds. Wait another 10-15 minutes before applying any other skin care products. Use 2-3 times per week when beginning treatment; use can be gradually increased to daily as skin tolerance increases. Using tretinoin will increase sun sensitivity. Make sure to avoid long exposure to the sun and to use full-spectrum sunscreen daily; do not use UV-light tanning services. Apply product at night; retinoid products break down quickly and become less effective with sun exposure. Side Effects and Product Safety: Side effects may include skin dryness, burning, redness, excessive flaking, or peeling. In some cases, acne symptoms may appear to worsen before they improve. Tell your healthcare provider about any side effect that bothers you or does not go away. The safety and efficacy of tretinoin have not been established in the treatment of patients younger than 12 years of age or in pregnant or nursing women.
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Product Specifications
Key Ingredient
Retinol
Product Form
Cream
How To Use
Follow all instructions for use and dosage from your prescribing physician. After thoroughly cleansing your face at night, wait approximately 20 minutes. Wash and dry your hands, then apply the cream evenly over your entire face (and neck and/or chest if directed). Gently smooth in until absorbed, avoiding eyes and mouth. Do not apply to open wounds. Wait another 10-15 minutes before applying any other skin care products. Use 2-3 times per week when beginning treatment; use can be gradually increased to daily as skin tolerance increases. Using tretinoin will increase sun sensitivity. Make sure to avoid long exposure to the sun and to use full-spectrum sunscreen daily; do not use UV-light tanning services. Apply product at night; retinoid products break down quickly and become less effective with sun exposure. Side Effects and Product Safety: Side effects may include skin dryness, burning, redness, excessive flaking, or peeling. In some cases, acne symptoms may appear to worsen before they improve. Tell your healthcare provider about any side effect that bothers you or does not go away. The safety and efficacy of tretinoin have not been established in the treatment of patients younger than 12 years of age or in pregnant or nursing women.
