Tretinoin
what it does
A prescription-strength retinoic acid and the gold-standard retinoid for acne, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation. Directly binds to skin receptors to accelerate cell turnover and stimulate collagen synthesis.
The one ingredient dermatologists have been hyping since 1971 and it hasn't gotten old. Tretinoin is that bitch. Expect a rough purge phase but the glow-up on the other side is genuinely unhinged. Prescription only — not a toy.
targets these concerns
don't combine with
Benzoyl peroxide oxidises tretinoin on contact, rendering it inactive. Never layer them in the same session.
💡 AM: benzoyl peroxide. PM: tretinoin only, after it fully absorbs.
Both are potent exfoliants. Combining tretinoin with salicylic acid can cause excessive irritation and barrier disruption.
💡 AM: salicylic acid. PM: tretinoin only.
Glycolic acid increases tretinoin absorption and risk of irritation. Use glycolic strictly in AM and tretinoin strictly at night.
💡 AM: glycolic acid. PM: tretinoin only. Never same session.
Combining lactic acid with tretinoin significantly raises irritation risk, especially for sensitive or retinoid-naive skin.
💡 Alternate nights — never apply both in the same session.