What's a Topical Retinoid?

Topical retinoids are a class of prescription medications used to control comedonal acne (blackheads and whiteheads). Also referred to as retinoic acid or vitamin A acid, topical retinoids are available as gels, ointments, creams, or foams to be applied directly to the skin.

What is an example of a topical retinoid?

The different topical retinoids available today are: retinol, tretinoin, adapalene, tazarotene, alitretinoin, and bexarotene. These come in cream, gel, and liquid forms.

What is considered a retinoid?

“Retinoids are vitamin A derivatives that work by binding to retinoic acid receptors, which then can act as transcription factors and affect gene expression. This makes them very powerful and able to produce significant changes in the skin,” explains New York City board-certified dermatologist Hadley King, MD.