Last reviewed · How we verify
Tretinoin cream 0.05
Tretinoin is a vitamin A derivative that binds to retinoic acid receptors in the nucleus, promoting cell differentiation and reducing sebum production and comedone formation.
Tretinoin is a vitamin A derivative that binds to retinoic acid receptors in the nucleus, promoting cell differentiation and reducing sebum production and comedone formation. Used for Acne vulgaris, Photoaged skin and fine wrinkles, Melasma.
At a glance
| Generic name | Tretinoin cream 0.05 |
|---|---|
| Sponsor | Massachusetts General Hospital |
| Drug class | Retinoid |
| Target | Retinoic acid receptors (RAR-alpha, RAR-beta, RAR-gamma) |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Dermatology |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
Tretinoin acts as a ligand for nuclear retinoic acid receptors (RAR and RXR), which regulate gene transcription involved in cell proliferation and differentiation. In the skin, it increases cell turnover, normalizes keratinization, and reduces sebaceous gland activity. These effects help unclog pores, reduce inflammation, and improve acne lesions and photoaged skin.
Approved indications
- Acne vulgaris
- Photoaged skin and fine wrinkles
- Melasma
- Keratosis pilaris
Common side effects
- Erythema and irritation
- Peeling and dryness
- Photosensitivity
- Burning or stinging
- Temporary worsening of acne
Key clinical trials
- Effectiveness and Safety of Zingiber Officinale Transdermal Patch for Acne Vulgaris; Study of Interleukin 1 and Skin Microbiome (PHASE2, PHASE3)
- Treatment of Plane Warts With Topical and Oral Retinoids (PHASE4)
- Comparison of Effectiveness and Safety of Triple Combination Cream of Fucinolone Acetonide 0.01%, Hydroquinone 4%, Tretinoin 0.05% with Mometasone Furoate 0.1%, Hydroquinone 4%, Tretinoin 0.05% in the Treatment of Melasma (NA)
- Microneedle Versus Fractional CO₂ Laser for Skin Aging Treatment With Stem Cell Secretome in Indonesian Adult Women (NA)
- Treatment w/ Tri-Luma® Cream & Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) vs a Mild Inactive Control Cream & Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) in Melasma (PHASE4)
- Adapalene Gel 0.3% Versus Tretinoin 0.05% Emollient Cream for Treatment of Photodamage (PHASE3)
- Efficacy and Safety of Therapy With Tri-Luma® Cream in Sequence With Glycolic Acid Peels for Melasma (PHASE4)
- Effectivity of 1 Finger Tip Unit Compared to 2 Finger Tip Units 0.05% Tretinoin Cream (NA)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |
Competitive intelligence
For the full competitive landscape — auto-detected comparators, recent regulatory actions across the set, upcoming PDUFA, patent timeline, sponsor landscape:
- Tretinoin cream 0.05 CI brief — competitive landscape report
- Tretinoin cream 0.05 updates RSS · CI watch RSS
- Massachusetts General Hospital portfolio CI