Next time you’re in the company of a dermatologist, pose the ubiquitous desert island question, “If you had to pick one skincare ingredient that actually works, what would it be?” A lot of them would likely tell you retinoids. Retinoids are one of the most researched-backed, tried-and-true actives that derms and estheticians swear by. And while there are plenty of mild, over-the-counter retinol products on the market, if you’re wondering how to get tretinoin online, we’ve got the answers.
Tretinoin (brand names include Retin-A, Retin-A Micro, and Renova) has an unparalleled history of proven efficacy and is backed by ample clinical research. Tretinoin first came about in the ’70s, and while it was originally formulated to treat acne, patients and dermatologists quickly noticed that the Rx formula offered a laundry list of off-label skin-enhancing “side effects,” including softening fine lines, reducing texture, fading spots from sun damage, and shrinking the look of enlarged pores.
“Retinoid” is the all-encompassing umbrella comprised of different types of chemical compounds derived from vitamin A, and each variation provides different strength levels, including retinol, retinaldehyde, and of course tretinoin, to name a select few. However, prescription-strength tretinoin typically delivers the quickest results, but it does require a prescription from a physician or dermatologist.
Whether you’re looking to bypass a costly trip to the dermatologist or don’t currently have health insurance that covers dermatology, there is actually a slew of different online (and, yes, completely legal and legit) services that allow you to be assessed by a remote derm online to obtain a script for tretinoin and other prescription skincare products. Yes, you can buy Rx-skincare on second-hand websites, but for the love of god, please don’t resort to this “method” when you can get legit prescriptions from licensed healthcare providers. Keep scrolling to discover how to get tretinoin online so you can try it for yourself, along with all of the answers to your tretinoin questions, from board-certified dermatologist Dr. Marisa Garshick of MDCS Dermatology.
FAQ
What is tretinoin?
Tretinoin is a vitamin A derivative and usually comes in the form of a topical cream, lotion, or gel that, of course, requires a prescription from a dermatologist, according to Dr. Garshick. It can be used for acne and visible signs of aging, including wrinkles, fine lines, and dark spots.
What are the benefits of using tretinoin?
“It’s used mainly to treat acne, sun-damaged skin, and fine wrinkles. By helping to regulate skin cell turnover, it helps to prevent clogged pores and breakouts. By helping to boost collagen production, tretinoin can help to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles,” she explains.
Who should use tretinoin?
Dr. Garshick says that almost anyone can use tretinoin; however, those with super sensitive skin or rosacea should be careful. That’s because tretinoin has the potential to intitially cause sensitivity and dryness. It’s certainly possible for folks with sensitive skin and rosacea to incorporate this ingredient into their skincare routine, just as long as they use it properly and gradually ease into regular application.
What are the potential side effects of tretinoin?
“While it is normal to experience some dryness, burning, stinging, or dryness when initiating tretinoin, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine the best management approach. While some of this may subside with continued use, it may be necessary to stop temporarily and resume when the skin is no longer irritated,” per Dr. Garshick.
What’s the difference between tretinoin and retinol?
Even though both are types of retinol, retinol is over-the-counter and tretinoin is a prescription.
Which skincare ingredients work well with tretinoin?
Dr. Garshick suggests pairing tretinoin with hyaluronic acid and ceramides to combat any dryness or irritation that you might experience with regular use of tretinoin. Hyaluronic acid hydrates, while ceramides support the skin barrier. Another candidate is niacinamide, since it’s anti-inflammatory and helps to soothe skin.
Which skincare ingredients don’t work well with tretinoin?
Our derm expert recommends steering clear of harsh soaps, abrasive scrubs, and active ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide or other exfoliating acids (they tend to dry out or irrirate the skin), unless your derm says otherwise.
01
Hers
COURTESY OF HERS.
Hers
$29+
Not only does this online healthcare service allow you to get prescription medications and birth control online, but it also offers RX-only skincare treatments for acne and anti-aging. For first-time Hers customers, you can get Tretinoin delivered right to your door for $29 a month — and trust me, that’s a solid deal.
02
Nurx
COURTESY OF NURX.
Nurx
$30+
Another online healthcare service that offers RX meds and testing kits without an IRL appointment, Nurx also offers a huge range of prescription-only skincare products for “dermatology at your doorstep,” including Tretinoin, topical antibiotics, and spironolactone. Nurx also works with select insurance companies, but you can also pay out-of-pocket, too. The Acne Treatment costs as low as $30 a month ($60 charged every two months), which is nothing out of the ordinary for buying tretinoin online.
03
Curology
PHOTO: CUROLOGY.
Curology
$19.95
You probably already know Curology for its personalized skincare products, but did you know that when you select the custom formula for acne, it can include strong acne-fighting ingredients such as tretinoin, azelaic acid and niacinamide? The best part about Curology is that you get free online access to a dermatology provider, and if you’re not satisfied with the results in the first 90 days, you get your money back.
04
Musely
PHOTO: MUSELY.
Musely
$67+
Prescription skincare products prescribed by the best dermatologists and pharmacists? Count us in! Almost all of Musely‘s formulas contain tretinoin—whether it be an anti-aging cream or an eye serum. It’s easy to see why the telemedicine platform incorporates this ingredient in several of its offerings. Tretinoin accelerates the skin cell turnover process, making it great for those dealing with acne, visible signs of aging and more. In addition to tretinoin, the Anti-Aging Night Cream calls on niacinamide and hyaluronic acid to smooth skin and lock in moisture. You can even get this formula in Gentle, Balanced and Veteran iterations. Each one has a different concentration of tretinoin, so you can really figure out how much works for your skin. The night cream starts at $67 for a two-month supply.
05
Wisp
PHOTO: WISP.
Wisp
$75+
Wisp is a sexual and reproductive telehealth provider that recently branched out into skincare. Prescription-strength skincare without having to walk into a doctor’s office? Count us in! Wisp provides easy access to dermatologists to make sure your skin concerns like acne, hyperpigmentation and visible signs of aging are taken care of. One of its offerings, the Wrinkle Firming Cream, contains tretinoin (0.04 percent), azelaic acid (5 percent) and niacinamide (4 percent). Together, these powerful ingredients tackle fine lines and wrinkles, dark spots and acne. Just be sure to apply the product before bedtime only and then follow it up with an SPF 30 sunscreen the morning after. Get a three-month supply for $90 (paid once) or a three-month supply with refills for $75 a quarter.
06
Dermatica
COURTESY OF DERMATICA.
Dermatica
$29.95
Dermatica offers prescription-strength skincare formulations based on your personal skincare concerns and offers online assessments from the comfort of your own home. Their hero ingredient, Tretinoin, is offered in a variety of strengths, from 0.025 percent to 0.1 percent, which can be adjusted at any time.
07
Ro
PHOTO : RO.
Ro
$43
Sometimes starting a new skincare prescription can be daunting, but not with Ro. This telehealth site gives you a provider that will check in with you about your progress, help you manage side effects, and tweak your treatment as needed. Complete a free, 10-minute online visit to get a custom Rx treatment that targets your skin concerns. Follow that with free, unlimited check-ins with your provider. Considering a lot of similar companies charge for each visit, Ro is definitely a great option for those on a budget, especially since you can save 25 percent on your first order, if prescribed. That brings the price down to $43 for your first two months (after this period is up, you’ll get billed $58 every two months).
08
RedBox RX
PHOTO : REDBOX RX.
RedBox RX
$20
For an online tretinoin option that’s as low as $20 a month, head to RedBox RX. The platform offers affordable telehealth and online prescriptions and has provided over one million consultations thus far. Simply fill out a quick assessment and a U.S. licensed medical provider will share their treatment recommendation options. After you choose the one you want, the formula will get shipped to your door for free.
09
Agency
COURTESY OF AGENCY.
Agency
$35+
This online dermatology service gives you the full experience of an in-office appointment without the commute or costly co-pays. Agency allows you to get a comprehensive skin evaluation with a licensed healthcare provider (you upload a series of images) and your provider will suggest a customized formula tailored to suit your individual skincare needs and goals. For reference, the anti-aging Future Formula rings you up for $40 a month, while the Dark Spot Formula rings you up for $35 a month.
10
Apostrophe
PHOTO: APOSTROPHE.
Apostrophe
$25
Get personalized, prescription-strength skincare within 48 hours thanks to Apostrophe. All of its formulas are created by a board-certified dermatologist and cater to your skin’s needs—whether it’s acne, rosacea or something else. You’ll find custom topical treatments as well as oral medications on the site. The Tretinoin Formula mixes tretinoin with niacinamide to address hyperpigmentation, inflammation, redness, wrinkles, acne, collagen growth and radiance. What can’t this product do? Apostrophe dermatologists pick the strength of tretinoin in your custom formula; it ranges from 0.018 to 0.1 percent. A bottle of the Tretinoin Formula costs $25 a month, including shipping and the prescription.
