Tretinoin
- Product overview
- Why Tretinoin
- How it works
- Treatment process
- Explore other treatments
- Why REG3N
- Common questions
- Treatment information
From $25/mo*
Stimulates collagen production, improves skin texture, and reverses photoaging.
*Billed quarterly with a three-month commitment paid up front.
WHY TRETINOIN
Increases skin cell turnover. Improves photoaged skin.
Supports sun-damaged skin
In a 6-month trial of nearly 300 adults with sun-damaged skin, 68% using tretinoin showed overall skin improvement.
Source: Olsen et al., "Tretinoin Emollient Cream: A New Therapy for Photodamaged Skin," Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (1992) & Stern, "Treatment of Photoaging," New England Journal of Medicine (2004)
Published study facts
Helps reduce fine wrinkles
The trial found tretinoin was effective at reducing fine wrinkles, uneven brown spots (mottled hyperpigmentation), and rough skin texture.
Source: Olsen et al., "Tretinoin Emollient Cream: A New Therapy for Photodamaged Skin," Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (1992) & Stern, "Treatment of Photoaging," New England Journal of Medicine (2004)
Demonstrates 2x improvements
Across multiple similar trials, the rate of improvement with tretinoin was roughly double that of placebo.
Source: Olsen et al., "Tretinoin Emollient Cream: A New Therapy for Photodamaged Skin," Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (1992) & Stern, "Treatment of Photoaging," New England Journal of Medicine (2004)
Charts and graphics are illustrative representations intended to communicate published research findings and the known pharmacologic properties of the referenced medication. Visualizations may simplify, normalize, or model study data for educational purposes and should not be interpreted as guarantees of individual clinical outcomes or expected results.
HOW TRETINOIN WORKS
Renews skin cells.
Rebuilds collagen. Tretinoin is the active form of vitamin A. When applied to the skin, it enters cells and activates receptors that influence how skin cells grow, divide, and mature. Over time, this can lead to faster cell turnover, increased collagen production, and smoother, more even-looking skin.
Activates retinoic acid receptors
When applied to the skin, tretinoin enters skin cells and activates genes involved in how skin cells grow, divide, and mature.
Boosts skin cell turnover
Tretinoin speeds up the rate at which old skin cells shed, restoring a pace of turnover that naturally slows with age and sun exposure. Over weeks to months, skin texture can smooth out, tone typically becomes more even, and fine lines may become less visible. Improvement is gradual and builds with consistent use.
Increases collagen production
That same signal prompts cells in the deeper layer of skin (fibroblasts) to produce more collagen — the protein responsible for firmness and resilience.
Step 1
Medical intake
Answer a guided set of questions covering your medical history, current medications, goals, and treatment preferences.
A few minutes
Step 2
Doctor review
A U.S.-licensed, board-certified physician reviews your intake and recommends a medication, if appropriate.*
Within 72 hours
Step 3
Fast shipping
Approved medications ship directly to your door in discreet packaging.
2-5 business days
Step 4
Unlimited messaging
Your doctor is available via chat any time for additional support. Video consults available. The same prescription framework as REG3N's medical team. *Some states may require a synchronous audio and/or video consultation prior to a prescription being approved.
Up to 12 months
Proactive care
Doctor-led treatment plans designed around your goals. No wait lists. No insurance required.
Transparent pricing
No membership fees, no hidden costs. You pay only after a doctor prescribes treatment.
Board-certified doctors
Access to specialist physicians, licensed in your state. Unlimited messaging for up to 12 months.
Curated by longevity experts
Every protocol is built by medical experts, based on longevity research from REG3N's science team.
What is tretinoin?
Tretinoin is an FDA-approved topical retinoid for acne, visible signs of sun damage, fine lines, uneven tone, and rough texture. Off-label, doctors often include it in broader skin health protocols for its effects on collagen and long-term skin quality.
How do you take tretinoin?
Doctors typically recommend applying tretinoin to clean, dry skin. Tretinoin significantly increases sensitivity to the sun. Wash your face in the morning and apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen every day, even on cloudy days. Skipping this step can lead to significant sunburn and post-inflammatory discoloration that is difficult to treat.
What are the side effects of tretinoin?
Most people experience some dryness, flaking, or redness in the first few weeks. This is normal and usually settles as skin adjusts. Starting slow helps. Tell your doctor if irritation feels persistent or severe.
Who shouldn't take tretinoin?
Tretinoin isn't recommended during pregnancy or on broken or sunburned skin. Your doctor will go through your skin history and any other products or medications you're using before prescribing.
Disclaimer: This page is intended for educational purposes only and is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medication eligibility and prescriptions are determined solely by licensed medical providers based on clinical appropriateness. Not all individuals will qualify for medication-based treatment. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional before beginning any wellness program.
Stimulates collagen production, improves skin texture, and reverses photoaging.