What is tretinoin in skincare?
Tretinoin is all-trans retinoic acid – the biologically active form of vitamin A, and the only one that binds directly to retinoic acid receptors without needing conversion by the skin. It is available on prescription rather than over the counter.
It was the first topical treatment proven to reverse signs of photoageing, and remains the benchmark against which every other anti-ageing active is measured. Common strengths are 0.025%, 0.05% and 0.1%.
What skin concerns does tretinoin treat?
It treats acne at every severity by normalising how follicles shed, and it is extensively documented for photoageing – fine lines, wrinkles, roughness, sallowness and mottled pigmentation.
A vehicle-controlled comparison found 0.025% delivered improvement similar to 0.1% with markedly less irritation, so higher strength is not automatically better.
What ingredients are best paired with tretinoin?
Support the barrier hard: ceramides, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, panthenol and squalane make the retinisation period far more tolerable. Applying moisturiser before tretinoin (the sandwich method) reduces irritation without eliminating benefit.
Use at night, start two or three times a week, and never skip morning SPF. Do not combine with AHAs, BHAs or benzoyl peroxide in the same application, and do not use it if you are pregnant or trying to conceive. Take our Skin Quiz.
What are wrinkles?
Wrinkles are permanent folds and creases in the skin. They begin as dynamic lines that appear only with expression, then set into static lines visible at rest once the underlying support structure can no longer push them back out.
They form first where skin is thin and movement is constant: crow’s feet, forehead lines, frown lines between the brows, and nasolabial folds. Deeper folds also reflect loss of fat and bone volume, not just skin change.
What causes wrinkles?
Internally, collagen and elastin production declines steadily from the mid-twenties and the dermal matrix thins, so skin loses the scaffolding that keeps it smooth.
Externally, ultraviolet radiation does most of the damage – it activates enzymes that break down collagen and degrades elastic fibres. Smoking, pollution, sugar-driven glycation, poor sleep, sleeping position and repeated facial movement all accelerate the process.
What ingredients are best for wrinkles?
Retinoids have the deepest evidence base for stimulating collagen and measurably reducing wrinkle depth over six to twelve months. Vitamin C supports synthesis while neutralising the free radicals that break it down, and peptides signal repair.
Round it out with hyaluronic acid and ceramides for hydration and barrier strength, niacinamide for elasticity and tone, and AHAs for surface renewal. Daily broad-spectrum SPF is the most effective anti-wrinkle product there is. Take our Skin Quiz.
