Retin A (Tretinoin)

Name: Retin A
Brand: Bausch Health
SKU: 1970
Availability: InStock

Type

Product

Manufacturer

Country

Dosage

Qty-Price (USD)

Type:

Product: Retin A Gel

Manufacturer: Bausch Health

Country: Canada

Dosage: 0.025 %/30 gm

Qty-Price (USD):

Type:

Product: Retin A Micro Gel Pump

Manufacturer: Bausch Health

Country: Canada

Dosage: 0.04 %/50 gm

Qty-Price (USD):

Type:

Product: Retin A Cream

Manufacturer: Bausch Health

Country: Canada

Dosage: 0.05 %/30 gm

Qty-Price (USD):

Type:

Product: Retin A Micro Gel Pump

Manufacturer: Bausch Health

Country: Canada

Dosage: 0.1 %/50 gm

Qty-Price (USD):

Generic Equivalent of Retin A

Type

Product

Manufacturer

Country

Dosage

Qty-Price (USD)

Type:

Product: Tretinoin Cream

Manufacturer: Generic

Country: India

Dosage: 0.025 %/30 gm

Qty-Price (USD):

Type:

Product: Tretinoin Gel

Manufacturer: Generic

Country: India

Dosage: 0.025 %/20 gm

Qty-Price (USD):

Type:

Product: Tretinoin Cream

Manufacturer: Generic

Country: India

Dosage: 0.05 %/30 gm

Qty-Price (USD):

Type:

Product: Tretinoin Gel

Manufacturer: Generic

Country: India

Dosage: 0.05 %/20 gm

Qty-Price (USD):

Type:

Product: Tretinoin Cream

Manufacturer: Generic

Country: Turkey

Dosage: 0.1 %/20 gm

Qty-Price (USD):

Type:

Product: Tretinoin Gel

Manufacturer: Generic

Country: India

Dosage: 0.1 %/20 gm

Qty-Price (USD):

Retin A Information

medically reviewed by Carol Hou (BSc. Pharm) on June 23, 2025.

A licensed pharmacist (Licensed Community Pharmacies Directory | College of Pharmacists of British Columbia) with over 20 years of experience in medication management, specifically medication safety, she has reviewed the information for accuracy and completeness.

Retin A and Tretinoin at CanadaPharmacyOnline.com

The brand name Retin A is manufactured by Bausch Health in Canada.

Generic tretinoin is sourced from manufacturers that meet applicable regulatory standards. The specific manufacturer of your dispensed medication may vary.

Important Information about Generic Tretinoin:

Generic tretinoin contains the same active ingredient as brand-name Retin A and must meet the same safety, effectiveness, and quality standards. This means it is designed to work in the same way as Retin A. Studies have shown that generic tretinoin is bioequivalent to brand-name Retin A, meaning they have similar absorption rates and reach similar concentrations in the bloodstream. However, individual responses to medication can vary due to factors such as metabolism, genetics, and other health conditions.

For more information about generic drug approval and bioequivalence, you can visit the FDA website: https://www.fda.gov/drugs/generic-drugs/generic-drug-facts

Dosage:

The brand Retin A is available in various strengths and topical formulations (at this pharmacy), including (but not limited to):
o 0.025%/30 gm gel
o 0.04%/50 gm micro gel pump
o 0.05%/30 gm cream
o 0.1%/50 gm micro gel pump

The generic tretinoin is also available in multiple strengths and formulations such as:
o 0.025%/30 gm and 0.05%/30 gm cream
o 0.025%/20 gm and 0.05%/20 gm gel
o 0.1%/20 gm gel and cream

Your doctor will determine the appropriate dose based on your individual needs and medical conditions.

Usage:

Retin-A (tretinoin) is a prescription medication primarily used to treat acne vulgaris. It helps to clear existing breakouts and prevent new ones through increased skin cell turnover and the prevention of clogged pores. Additionally, specific formulations of Retin-A are also used to improve the appearance of sun-damaged skin on the face, reducing the look of fine wrinkles, dark spots, and rough texture by lightening the skin and promoting the growth of newer skin cells.

Apply Retin-A once daily at bedtime, unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Wash your face with a mild cleanser and pat it dry gently. Wait 20-30 minutes after washing your face to apply Retin-A to ensure your skin is dehydrated, as using it on damp skin can increase irritation. Squeeze a pea-sized amount of the medication onto your fingertip. This is usually enough to cover the entire face. Apply a thin layer to the affected areas of the skin. Avoid getting the medication in your eyes, mouth, nostrils, or other mucous membranes. If accidental contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.

Do not apply more medication than prescribed, as this will not make it work faster and may increase irritation. It may take several weeks to months before you see noticeable improvement. During the initial weeks of use, you may experience a temporary worsening of your acne (the "tretinoin purge"). This is normal and should subside with continued use. You may also experience dryness, redness, and peeling. Use a moisturizer if your skin becomes dry.

Mechanism of Action:
Tretinoin, a vitamin A derivative (all-trans retinoic acid), exerts its effects by binding to intracellular retinoic acid receptors (RARs) and retinoid X receptors (RXRs), modulating gene expression involved in cell growth and differentiation. Topical dermatological use for acne and photoaging normalizes follicular keratinization, increases epidermal cell turnover, reduces keratinocyte cohesiveness, and exhibits anti-inflammatory properties. Furthermore, it stimulates collagen production and inhibits its breakdown, improving skin elasticity and reducing hyperpigmentation. In treating acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL), systemic tretinoin targets the PML-RAR-alpha fusion protein, leading to its degradation and allowing the maturation of leukemic promyelocytes into normal blood cells.

Use Retin A exactly as your doctor prescribes, following the instructions in the product monograph in Canada. Consult your doctor for personalized guidance and safe use.

The information below summarizes some, but not all, potential side effects, risks, and interactions. Before taking Retin A, it is essential to discuss all possible side effects, risks, and interactions with your doctor or pharmacist.

Side Effects:

The information below outlines potential adverse effects of Retin A (tretinoin). It is not an exhaustive list, and individual reactions can vary.

Common side effects are some common side effects of Retin A, but others are possible. Contact your doctor promptly if any side effects are persistent, worsening, or concerning, or if you experience any other concerning symptoms. Seek immediate medical attention if you develop signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as rash, hives, itching, swelling (especially of the face, lips, or tongue), or difficulty breathing.
• Burning, stinging, warmth, or tingling sensation of the skin (usually temporary after application);
• Chapping or slight peeling of the skin (mild)
• Darkening or lightening of the skin color
• Itching or scaling of the skin
• Redness of the skin (mild to severe)
• Unusual dryness of the skin (mild to severe)

Less Common:
• Dryness, pain, redness, irritation, or peeling at the application site.

Other possible side effects:
• Increased sensitivity to sunlight (photosensitivity), leading to sunburn more easily. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher daily, even on cloudy days. Wear protective clothing and limit sun exposure, especially during peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). Avoid tanning beds and sunlamps.
• Temporary acne worsening (sometimes called the "tretinoin purge").
• Eye irritation if the medication comes into contact with the eyes. Rinse immediately with plenty of water if this occurs.

Contraindications:

The following is not an exhaustive list of contraindications. Before starting Retin A, it is crucial to discuss all your medical conditions, past and present, and all medications you are taking with your doctor or pharmacist.

Retin A should not be used if:
• You are allergic to tretinoin or any of the ingredients in the product.
• You have eczema or other severely inflamed skin conditions. Retin-A can cause severe irritation on eczematous skin.
• You have sunburn. Avoid using Retin-A on sunburned, windburned, dry, chapped, or irritated skin until fully recovered.
• You have a fish allergy (especially if using particular lotion or gel formulations that may contain fish protein). Always check the ingredient list.
• You are taking other medications that increase sun sensitivity.
• You have open wounds or lesions on the skin.
• You are using other topical medications that may cause irritation or dryness, such as abrasive cleansers, products containing alcohol, spices, or lime, unless specifically directed by your doctor.

Tell your doctor about all your medical conditions, past and present, before starting Retin A. This is crucial because certain conditions can affect whether Retin A is right for you. These conditions may include, but are not limited to:
• Eczema or other skin conditions: Retin-A can cause severe irritation on eczematous skin and should be used cautiously in individuals with eczema or other pre-existing skin conditions. It may exacerbate dryness, itching, and inflammation.
• Fish allergy (with specific formulations): Some Retin-A gel and lotion formulations may contain fish proteins. Individuals with fish allergies should use these products cautiously and be aware of potential allergic reactions. Always check the ingredient list and inform your doctor of any allergies.
• Photosensitizing medications: People taking other drugs that increase sensitivity to the sun should avoid or use Retin-A with extreme caution due to the increased risk of sunburn.
• Rosacea: The use of Retin-A in individuals with rosacea can be tricky. While some studies suggest that low concentrations of retinoids might benefit certain types of rosacea by reducing inflammation and improving skin texture, they can also cause significant irritation, redness, and dryness, potentially worsening symptoms, especially during flare-ups. The use of tretinoin in rosacea should be under the guidance of a dermatologist, often starting with very low concentrations and gradually increasing them.
• Sun sensitivity: Retin-A increases the skin's sensitivity to sunlight, making individuals more prone to sunburn. Caution should be exercised; sun protection, including sunscreen and protective clothing, is essential during treatment. Individuals with inherent sun sensitivity or significant exposure due to their occupation should be careful.

Other Precautions:
• Avoid applying Retin-A to the delicate skin around the eyes and lips unless specifically directed by your doctor. • Use caution when applying Retin-A in areas with cuts, scrapes, or irritated skin. • Avoid waxing treated areas, as this can cause significant skin irritation. • Extreme weather conditions, such as wind and cold, may be more irritating to skin treated with Retin-A.

Sensitivity to Sun
Retin-A increases skin sensitivity to the sun by accelerating skin cell turnover and potentially thinning the outer layer, making it more vulnerable to UV damage. Therefore, daily use of a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen is crucial, even on cloudy days. Applying Retin-A at night, limiting sun exposure during peak hours, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding tanning beds are also essential to minimize the risk of sunburn and long-term sun damage while using this medication. Reapply sunscreen frequently, especially after sweating or swimming.

Drug Interactions:

Before taking Retin A, it is essential to discuss all potential risks and interactions with your doctor or pharmacist. For complete and up-to-date information, refer to the Retin-A prescribing information.

Provide your doctor with a complete list of all your medications, including prescriptions, over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements. It is also essential to inform your doctor about any herbal teas, recreational drugs, or significant dietary changes you are making, as these could potentially interact with Retin A. Retin A may interact with other medicines, but is not limited to:

Topical Medications and Skincare Products:
• Topical Antibiotics: Similar to benzoyl peroxide, topical antibiotics, when used simultaneously with Retin-A, might increase irritation. However, some doctors may recommend using them at different times of the day as part of a treatment plan.
• Benzoyl Peroxide: While some doctors may allow benzoyl peroxide and tretinoin at different times of the day, using them simultaneously can increase irritation and potentially reduce the effectiveness of tretinoin if applied too closely together. Sequential use (e.g., one in the morning and the other at night) may be recommended by your doctor. Avoid using these products at the same time unless specifically instructed by your doctor.
• Medicated or Abrasive Soaps and Cleansers: These products can be harsh and drying on the skin. Using them with Retin-A can lead to increased irritation.
• Products with Strong Drying Effects: Cosmetics and skincare products containing high concentrations of alcohol, astringents, spices, or lime can irritate the skin and should be used cautiously or avoided while using Retin-A.
• Other Retinoids: Using other topical retinoids (such as adapalene, tazarotene, or retinol-containing products) simultaneously with Retin-A can increase skin irritation, dryness, redness, and peeling. It's generally recommended to avoid using multiple retinoid products concurrently unless specifically advised by your doctor.
• Products Containing Sulfur, Resorcinol, or Salicylic Acid: These ingredients are often found in acne treatments and can increase skin irritation when used with Retin-A. It's generally advisable to avoid using them at the same time.

Photosensitizing Medications:
Retin-A can increase your skin's sensitivity to sunlight (photosensitivity), making you more prone to sunburn. Using other medications that also cause photosensitivity can further increase this risk. Examples include:
o Aminolevulinic acid
o Fluoroquinolone antibiotics (e.g., ciprofloxacin).
o Phenothiazines (e.g., chlorpromazine).
o Psoralens.
o Sulfonamide antibiotics (e.g., sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim).
o Tetracycline antibiotics (e.g., doxycycline, minocycline).
o Thiazide diuretics (e.g., hydrochlorothiazide).

Other Potential Interactions:
• Oral tretinoin (for certain types of leukemia): If you take oral tretinoin for a medical condition, using topical Retin-A concurrently could lead to excessive exposure to tretinoin and increase the risk of side effects. Inform your doctor if you are taking any form of oral tretinoin.
• Vitamin A Supplements: Taking high doses of vitamin A supplements while using Retin-A might increase the risk of vitamin A toxicity. Discuss your use of any vitamin A supplements with your doctor.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Topical Retin-A (tretinoin) is categorized as Pregnancy Category C, suggesting potential fetal risks based on animal studies, though human data is limited. Due to this, it's generally recommended to avoid using topical Retin-A during pregnancy as a precautionary measure. For breastfeeding, it's unknown if topical tretinoin passes into breast milk, so caution is advised, and direct application to the nipple area should be avoided; many healthcare providers recommend avoiding it while nursing. Always consult your doctor for personalized guidance during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Inform your doctor immediately if you become pregnant or are planning to become pregnant while using Retin-A.

Frequently Asked Questions about Retin A at Canada Pharmacy Online:

Why is Retin-A more affordable in Canada than in the United States?

Prescription drug prices, including Retin A, are generally lower in Canada than in the US due to a combination of factors, primarily government price regulations, differing market dynamics, and other economic considerations. In Canada, provincial and federal governments negotiate drug prices with pharmaceutical companies, which often results in lower costs compared to the U.S., where market forces play a more significant role. For more information, see the FAQs on Prescription Drug Importation from the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF): https://www.kff.org/health-costs/issue-brief/faqs-on-prescription-drug-importation/

How much is the shipping?

Our shipping fee is a flat rate of $10.00 per order. Our pharmacy focuses on offering you the lowest prices on high-quality products.

How do I order from your pharmacy?

Ordering from us is very simple. You can purchase online or call Customer Service at 1866.920.3784; for more information or to learn about the ordering process, visit our How to Order page.

Is there a limit on how many Retin A I am allowed to order at one time?

CanadaPharmacyOnline.com can only dispense a maximum of a three-month supply of Retin A at once, per your doctor's prescription.

Can I buy over the counter from you?

No, Retin A requires a valid prescription from your doctor. We do not sell this product without a valid prescription.

Do you ship to the United States?

Yes, we do. It usually takes 7 and 18 business days to receive your order from our pharmacy.

Is there a generic for Retin A?

Yes, there is a generic alternative for this product called tretinoin.

How do I store Retin A?

Store Retin-A at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep out of reach of children and pets.

Can I use Retin A with other skincare products?

To minimize irritation, it's generally recommended to avoid using other active topical medications (like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid) at the same time as Retin-A. Check with your doctor or dermatologist about combining Retin-A with other skincare products.

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The information on this page is sourced from independent third parties contracted by CanadaPharmacyOnline. While we cannot guarantee its medical accuracy, we strongly recommend consulting a healthcare professional for personalized advice regarding medications or medical conditions.

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