Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsSimilaritiesDifferencesAbout TretinoinAbout IsotretinoinWhich to Choose
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
Similarities
Differences
About Tretinoin
About Isotretinoin
Which to Choose
Tretinoin and isotretinoin are similar-looking generic names for two different medications. Both medications are used to treat acne, and they both belong to a group of medications called retinoids.Retinoids are medications that are derived from vitamin A.
Despite their similar names, tretinoin and isotretinoin medications are not interchangeable when it comes to treating acne. They are used in different ways and for different reasons.
This article discusses the differences and similarities between tretinoin and isotretinoin. It also covers how you use them and why your healthcare provider may prescribe them.
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TretinoinTopicalTreats mild-to-moderate acne plus sun damage and wrinklesIsotretinoinOralPrescribed for severe or stubborn inflammatory acne
TretinoinTopicalTreats mild-to-moderate acne plus sun damage and wrinkles
Topical
Treats mild-to-moderate acne plus sun damage and wrinkles
IsotretinoinOralPrescribed for severe or stubborn inflammatory acne
Oral
Prescribed for severe or stubborn inflammatory acne
Are Tretinoin and Isotretinoin the Same?
No, tretinoin and isotretinoin are different medications used to treat different types and severities of acne.
Tretinoinis a topical (applied to the skin) medication derived from vitamin A. Tretinoin is commonly used to treat mild to moderate acne, likeblackheadsand whiteheads. It may also be used to address signs of aging, such asage spots, sun damage, and wrinkles, and to improve the skin’s overall texture.
Isotretinoin is indicated for severe acne that does not respond to other acne treatments. Still, some dermatologists prescribe it for less severe acne that does not respond to other treatments, as well as to people with acne that causes scars or severepsychological distress.
There are some similarities between the two medications. Both tretinoin and isotretinoin are:
What Are the Differences Between Tretinon and Isotretinon?
What Is Tretinoin?
Tretionin is used topically, meaning that you put it directly on the skin. Usually, you apply tretinoin once or twice a day. Topical tretinoin medications come in cream, ointment, and gel, ranging in strength from .025% to .1%, the latter of which is most potent.
Benefits
Studies show that the anti-aging effects of tretinoin can be seen within four to six weeks of starting treatment.
Side Effects
The typical side effects of tretinoin include mild to moderate irritation in the form of:
Side effects typically occur within the first few weeks of treatment then subside.Additionally, topical tretinoin will make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. While using this medication, it’s important to apply sunscreen to treated skin areas daily.
Can You Use Tretinoin if You Are Pregnant?Tretinoin has not been studied extensively in people who are pregnant. However, there is significant evidence regarding the risk of severe birth defects linked to topical isotretinoin.For this reason, if you are pregnant, you should avoid them both.
Can You Use Tretinoin if You Are Pregnant?
Tretinoin has not been studied extensively in people who are pregnant. However, there is significant evidence regarding the risk of severe birth defects linked to topical isotretinoin.For this reason, if you are pregnant, you should avoid them both.
Tretinoin is the active ingredient in medications prescribed to treatmild pimplestomoderate acneand blackheads. Brand-name drugs containing tretinoin include:
Is Retin-A (Tretinoin) Safe to Use During Pregnancy?
What Is Isotretinoin?
Isotretinoin is an oral medication, so rather than apply it to your skin, it’s swallowed as a pill. It’s most often prescribed forsevere forms of acne. Isotretinoin is also used to treat milder cases that are stubborn and have not responded to other types of acne medication. It may also be prescribed in cases when acne is leaving behind scars.
Isotretinoin is a very beneficial treatment for certain people, but it isn’t right for everyone. It can cause side effects, some of which are potentially serious.
Possible side effects of isotretinoin include:
Although uncommon, life-threatening side effects of isotretinoin have been reported, including liver damage, and increasing pressure on the brain which can lead to permanent loss of eyesight, and in very rare cases, death.
Your healthcare provider will monitor your skin and health during the entire time you’re using isotretinoin.
People taking isotretinoin who can get pregnant must first register with a program callediPledge Program. The goal of this program is to prevent fetal exposure to isotretinoin.
The requirements include using twomethods of contraceptionor practicing complete abstinence during treatment. You must also have negative pregnancy tests each month (for people of childbearing potential) and see a healthcare provider monthly. You also agree to have regular blood tests as needed.
Unlike tretinoin (and most acne medications), isotretinoin is only used for a finite length of time. In fact, most people only need one or two courses in their lifetime.
Researchers have found no evidence of a link between isotretinoin and IBD, although there is some evidence that isotretinoin may come with a slightly increased risk of ulcerative colitis.
In addition to generic isotretinoin, other brands of isotretinoin remain available, such as:
Isotretinoin clears up acne, and in the majority of cases, it doesn’t return even after you stop using it. It’s the closest thing to an actual cure for acne. In very specific cases, a low dose of isotretinoin may be prescribed long-term.
Tretinoin vs. Isotretinoin: Which Should You Use?
If your primary skin concern is aging, a topical tretinoin is ideal for you. Bring your concerns to your dermatologist. The provider will help you choose the right strength of tretinoin for your skin.
If your primary skin concern is acne, your provider will consider:
You won’t have to decide any of this on your own. Your dermatologist will help you decide if either is the right treatment option for you.
Prescription Topical Acne Treatments
Summary
Tretinoin and isotretinoin are both acne treatments derived from vitamin A. They may have similar names, but they’re prescribed for different reasons and used in different ways.
Tretinoin is a topical medication that’s used to treat mild to moderate acne. It speeds up the life cycle of skin cells, which helps to keep pores clear. It may also be used to treat wrinkles and sun damage.
Isotretinoin is an oral medication prescribed for severe acne or cases that may cause scars. It’s used for a specified amount of time. In most cases, it keeps your skin clear even after you stop using it. It can potentially cause serious side effects as well as severe birth defects. While using it, you’re required to use two forms of birth control.
15 SourcesVerywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.UW Health.Retinoids: defining the difference.Sitohang IB, Makes WI, Sandora N, Suryanegara J.Topical tretinoin for treating photoaging: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials.Int J Womens Dermatol. 2022 Mar;8(1):e003. doi:10.1097/JW9.0000000000000003Paichitrojjana A.Oral isotretinoin and its uses in dermatology: A review.Drug Des Devel Ther. 2023 Aug;17(1):2573-2591. doi:10.2147/DDDT.S427530Milosheska D, Roškar R.Use of retinoids in topical antiaging treatments: A focused review of clinical evidence for conventional and nanoformulations.Adv Ther. 2022 Oct;39(12):5351-5375. doi:10.1007/s12325-022-02319-7Anwar A, Ruray R, Adriani A, Djawad K, Wijaya J, Anwar A, et al.Increased vitamin A level is associated with clinical improvement in mild acne vulgaris: A pre-test and post-test clinical trial.OA MJMS. 2022;10(B):1932-1935.Stanford Medicine.Does retinol deserve the hype? A Stanford dermatologist weighs in.Browne H, Mason G, Tang T.Retinoids and pregnancy: An update.TOG. 2014 Jan;16(1):7-11. doi:10.1111/tog.12075Leyden J, Stein-Gold L, Weiss J.Why topical retinoids are mainstay of therapy for acne.Dermatol Ther. 2017 Jun;7(1):293-304. doi:10.1007/s13555-017-0185-2Patel V, Schwartz R, Lambert C.Safety of topical dermatologic medications in pregnancy.JDD. 2016 Jul;15(7):1-5.Ding RL, Zheng Y, Bu J.Physiological and psychological effects of isotretinoin in the treatment of patients with acne: A narrative review.Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2023;16(1):1843-1854. doi:10.2147/CCID.S416267American Academy of Dermatology Association.Isotretinoin: The truth about side effects.Tkachenko E, Singer S, Sharma P, Barbieri J, Mostaghimi A.US Food and Drug Administration reports of pregnancy and pregnancy-related adverse events associated with isotretinoin.JAMA Dermatol. 2019 Oct;155(10):1175-1179. doi:10.1001/jamadermatol.2019.1388Barbieri J.Isotretinoin and risk of inflammatory bowel disease.J Am Acad Dermatol. 2021 Jan;84(1):228-229. doi:10.1016/j.jaad.2020.07.041Torzecka J, Dziankowska-Bartkowiak B, Gerlicz-Kowalczuk Z, Wozniacka A.The use of isotretinoin in low doses and unconventional treatment regimens in different types of acne: a literature review.Postepy Dermatol Alergol. 2017 Feb;34(1):1-5. doi:10.5114/ada.2017.65614National Library of Medicine.Topical acne treatments.Additional ReadingZaenglein AL, Pathy AL, Schlosser BJ, et al.“Guidelines of Care for the Management of Acne Vulgaris.“Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology.2016 May;74(5):945-73.
15 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.UW Health.Retinoids: defining the difference.Sitohang IB, Makes WI, Sandora N, Suryanegara J.Topical tretinoin for treating photoaging: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials.Int J Womens Dermatol. 2022 Mar;8(1):e003. doi:10.1097/JW9.0000000000000003Paichitrojjana A.Oral isotretinoin and its uses in dermatology: A review.Drug Des Devel Ther. 2023 Aug;17(1):2573-2591. doi:10.2147/DDDT.S427530Milosheska D, Roškar R.Use of retinoids in topical antiaging treatments: A focused review of clinical evidence for conventional and nanoformulations.Adv Ther. 2022 Oct;39(12):5351-5375. doi:10.1007/s12325-022-02319-7Anwar A, Ruray R, Adriani A, Djawad K, Wijaya J, Anwar A, et al.Increased vitamin A level is associated with clinical improvement in mild acne vulgaris: A pre-test and post-test clinical trial.OA MJMS. 2022;10(B):1932-1935.Stanford Medicine.Does retinol deserve the hype? A Stanford dermatologist weighs in.Browne H, Mason G, Tang T.Retinoids and pregnancy: An update.TOG. 2014 Jan;16(1):7-11. doi:10.1111/tog.12075Leyden J, Stein-Gold L, Weiss J.Why topical retinoids are mainstay of therapy for acne.Dermatol Ther. 2017 Jun;7(1):293-304. doi:10.1007/s13555-017-0185-2Patel V, Schwartz R, Lambert C.Safety of topical dermatologic medications in pregnancy.JDD. 2016 Jul;15(7):1-5.Ding RL, Zheng Y, Bu J.Physiological and psychological effects of isotretinoin in the treatment of patients with acne: A narrative review.Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2023;16(1):1843-1854. doi:10.2147/CCID.S416267American Academy of Dermatology Association.Isotretinoin: The truth about side effects.Tkachenko E, Singer S, Sharma P, Barbieri J, Mostaghimi A.US Food and Drug Administration reports of pregnancy and pregnancy-related adverse events associated with isotretinoin.JAMA Dermatol. 2019 Oct;155(10):1175-1179. doi:10.1001/jamadermatol.2019.1388Barbieri J.Isotretinoin and risk of inflammatory bowel disease.J Am Acad Dermatol. 2021 Jan;84(1):228-229. doi:10.1016/j.jaad.2020.07.041Torzecka J, Dziankowska-Bartkowiak B, Gerlicz-Kowalczuk Z, Wozniacka A.The use of isotretinoin in low doses and unconventional treatment regimens in different types of acne: a literature review.Postepy Dermatol Alergol. 2017 Feb;34(1):1-5. doi:10.5114/ada.2017.65614National Library of Medicine.Topical acne treatments.Additional ReadingZaenglein AL, Pathy AL, Schlosser BJ, et al.“Guidelines of Care for the Management of Acne Vulgaris.“Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology.2016 May;74(5):945-73.
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
UW Health.Retinoids: defining the difference.Sitohang IB, Makes WI, Sandora N, Suryanegara J.Topical tretinoin for treating photoaging: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials.Int J Womens Dermatol. 2022 Mar;8(1):e003. doi:10.1097/JW9.0000000000000003Paichitrojjana A.Oral isotretinoin and its uses in dermatology: A review.Drug Des Devel Ther. 2023 Aug;17(1):2573-2591. doi:10.2147/DDDT.S427530Milosheska D, Roškar R.Use of retinoids in topical antiaging treatments: A focused review of clinical evidence for conventional and nanoformulations.Adv Ther. 2022 Oct;39(12):5351-5375. doi:10.1007/s12325-022-02319-7Anwar A, Ruray R, Adriani A, Djawad K, Wijaya J, Anwar A, et al.Increased vitamin A level is associated with clinical improvement in mild acne vulgaris: A pre-test and post-test clinical trial.OA MJMS. 2022;10(B):1932-1935.Stanford Medicine.Does retinol deserve the hype? A Stanford dermatologist weighs in.Browne H, Mason G, Tang T.Retinoids and pregnancy: An update.TOG. 2014 Jan;16(1):7-11. doi:10.1111/tog.12075Leyden J, Stein-Gold L, Weiss J.Why topical retinoids are mainstay of therapy for acne.Dermatol Ther. 2017 Jun;7(1):293-304. doi:10.1007/s13555-017-0185-2Patel V, Schwartz R, Lambert C.Safety of topical dermatologic medications in pregnancy.JDD. 2016 Jul;15(7):1-5.Ding RL, Zheng Y, Bu J.Physiological and psychological effects of isotretinoin in the treatment of patients with acne: A narrative review.Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2023;16(1):1843-1854. doi:10.2147/CCID.S416267American Academy of Dermatology Association.Isotretinoin: The truth about side effects.Tkachenko E, Singer S, Sharma P, Barbieri J, Mostaghimi A.US Food and Drug Administration reports of pregnancy and pregnancy-related adverse events associated with isotretinoin.JAMA Dermatol. 2019 Oct;155(10):1175-1179. doi:10.1001/jamadermatol.2019.1388Barbieri J.Isotretinoin and risk of inflammatory bowel disease.J Am Acad Dermatol. 2021 Jan;84(1):228-229. doi:10.1016/j.jaad.2020.07.041Torzecka J, Dziankowska-Bartkowiak B, Gerlicz-Kowalczuk Z, Wozniacka A.The use of isotretinoin in low doses and unconventional treatment regimens in different types of acne: a literature review.Postepy Dermatol Alergol. 2017 Feb;34(1):1-5. doi:10.5114/ada.2017.65614National Library of Medicine.Topical acne treatments.
UW Health.Retinoids: defining the difference.
Sitohang IB, Makes WI, Sandora N, Suryanegara J.Topical tretinoin for treating photoaging: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials.Int J Womens Dermatol. 2022 Mar;8(1):e003. doi:10.1097/JW9.0000000000000003
Paichitrojjana A.Oral isotretinoin and its uses in dermatology: A review.Drug Des Devel Ther. 2023 Aug;17(1):2573-2591. doi:10.2147/DDDT.S427530
Milosheska D, Roškar R.Use of retinoids in topical antiaging treatments: A focused review of clinical evidence for conventional and nanoformulations.Adv Ther. 2022 Oct;39(12):5351-5375. doi:10.1007/s12325-022-02319-7
Anwar A, Ruray R, Adriani A, Djawad K, Wijaya J, Anwar A, et al.Increased vitamin A level is associated with clinical improvement in mild acne vulgaris: A pre-test and post-test clinical trial.OA MJMS. 2022;10(B):1932-1935.
Stanford Medicine.Does retinol deserve the hype? A Stanford dermatologist weighs in.
Browne H, Mason G, Tang T.Retinoids and pregnancy: An update.TOG. 2014 Jan;16(1):7-11. doi:10.1111/tog.12075
Leyden J, Stein-Gold L, Weiss J.Why topical retinoids are mainstay of therapy for acne.Dermatol Ther. 2017 Jun;7(1):293-304. doi:10.1007/s13555-017-0185-2
Patel V, Schwartz R, Lambert C.Safety of topical dermatologic medications in pregnancy.JDD. 2016 Jul;15(7):1-5.
Ding RL, Zheng Y, Bu J.Physiological and psychological effects of isotretinoin in the treatment of patients with acne: A narrative review.Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2023;16(1):1843-1854. doi:10.2147/CCID.S416267
American Academy of Dermatology Association.Isotretinoin: The truth about side effects.
Tkachenko E, Singer S, Sharma P, Barbieri J, Mostaghimi A.US Food and Drug Administration reports of pregnancy and pregnancy-related adverse events associated with isotretinoin.JAMA Dermatol. 2019 Oct;155(10):1175-1179. doi:10.1001/jamadermatol.2019.1388
Barbieri J.Isotretinoin and risk of inflammatory bowel disease.J Am Acad Dermatol. 2021 Jan;84(1):228-229. doi:10.1016/j.jaad.2020.07.041
Torzecka J, Dziankowska-Bartkowiak B, Gerlicz-Kowalczuk Z, Wozniacka A.The use of isotretinoin in low doses and unconventional treatment regimens in different types of acne: a literature review.Postepy Dermatol Alergol. 2017 Feb;34(1):1-5. doi:10.5114/ada.2017.65614
National Library of Medicine.Topical acne treatments.
Zaenglein AL, Pathy AL, Schlosser BJ, et al.“Guidelines of Care for the Management of Acne Vulgaris.“Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology.2016 May;74(5):945-73.
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