Tretinoin is a topical skin treatment that increases collagen production, targets fine lines and wrinkles, reduces hyperpigmentation and helps with sun-damaged skin. But there is one thing to know about this anti-ageing hero: it can cause a period of red, flaking and dry skin that is known as the’retinol purge’.
Why Tretinoin?

Tretinoin is a form of vitamin A, known to help skin cells turnover more quickly. This helps to clear acne and prevent breakouts by clearing oil from pores, preventing dead skin buildup, and making the environment less welcoming for bacteria that cause inflammation.

Tretinoin can also reduce discolouration caused by sun damage and minimise fine lines and wrinkles. However, it cannot reverse changes that have already occurred to the skin.

It is important to note that tretinoin can be irritating for some people, especially at the beginning of treatment. Your doctor will design a plan to suit your skin, including a recommended starting strength and a gradual ramp up.

Wash and dry your skin thoroughly before applying tretinoin. Use a pea-sized amount on your fingertips and apply to the areas you need it (avoiding eyes, lips, corners of the nose, mucous membranes and damaged skin). Always use a moisturizer afterwards, as excess dryness can lead to sensitivity and irritation.
Can I get a prescription for Tretinoin in the UK?

Tretinoin is a prescription only product which means you can only purchase it with the help of a GP or dermatologist. In the UK this is possible by having a consultation with a GP/pharmacist either face to face or online. UK Meds offer a free online consultation service so you can get a prescription for Tretinoin without even needing to leave the comfort of your own home.

Your GP/pharmacist will design a personalised treatment plan for you that will include how often and how much of the cream to apply. They will also advise you on the best ways to use it, including any specific skin care routines that should be followed.

You may see Tretinoin sold as a gel or cream, and both perform the same function on the skin – but a cream formulation is better suited to dry skins. It’s important that you follow the instructions carefully, especially in the first few weeks as your skin will need to adapt.
Do I need to have a consultation with a GP/pharmacist to get a prescription for Tretinoin in the UK?

A GP or dermatologist will check that you are suitable to use this prescription-only topical treatment. They will determine your prescription strength and advise you of how frequently to apply the cream and at what times of day. Your doctor may also recommend other skincare products to complement tretinoin, depending on your skin type.

Tretinoin is in a class of skincare ingredients called retinoids, which are found in topical treatments for acne and other skin conditions. They work by boosting cell turnover and exfoliation, and can reduce inflammation that can cause spots. The most powerful retinoids, like isotretinoin (best known as Roaccutane), are only available with a prescription from a dermatologist.

When you have a tretinoin prescription, it’s important to use the cream correctly to get the best results. Always wash your face before applying it, and avoid using harsh cleansers or excessive scrubbing. It’s recommended that you wait 20 minutes after washing before squeezing a pea-sized amount of the cream onto your fingertips and gently rubbing it into your skin. It can take weeks and sometimes months for tretinoin to start to show results, so it’s important to be patient!
Can I purchase Tretinoin online with UK Meds?

Purchasing Tretinoin online can be a safe, convenient and cost-effective way to get the medication you need. All you need to do is complete our free online consultation form and our qualified pharmacist will check your prescription and approve your order. Once your prescription is approved you can then purchase your medication directly from us and we will ship it to you worldwide.

There are many different tretinoin cream buy online vendors out there, but you should always purchase from a reputable one to ensure that you’re getting genuine medicine. If you’re unsure about where to purchase from, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice. They may be able to recommend a trusted website or offer you some tips on how to save money on your treatment.

Remember that tretinoin can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it’s important to use a sunscreen with a high SPF when outdoors. Also, avoid other forms of UV light exposure (e.g. UVA/UVB rays from tanning beds) while using the medication.tretinoin cream uk