Tretinoin is a derivative of vitamin A. It is used on the skin in the treatment of mild to moderate acne and on skin that has been damaged by excessive exposure to the sun. Retinoic acid irritates the skin and causes the cells of the skin to grow (divide) and die more rapidly, increasing the turnover of cells.

In patients with acne, new cells replace the cells of existing pimples, and the rapid turnover of cells prevents new pimples from forming. By a similar mechanism, Retinoic acid can reduce some wrinkles, areas of darkened skin (hyperpigmentation), and rough areas of skin, all of which occur in sun-damaged skin. In patients with sun-damaged skin, improvements in the skin usually are seen within the first 3 to 4 weeks of treatment. Brown spots begin to fade after 6 to 8 weeks. Wrinkles decrease or disappear after 3 to 6 months.

Niacinamide is the physiologically active form of niacin or vitamin B3. An essential vitamin, it has numerous dermatological uses. It has been shown to have antioxidant effects, promote epidermal barrier function, decrease redness and blotchiness, minimize fine lines and wrinkles, and more. All retinoic acid formulations made by our compounding pharmacy also include niacinamide.

Articles

A Review of the Range of Effects of Niacinamide in Human Skin – IFSCC Magazine

Nicotinic acid/niacinamide and the skin. – Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology

The effect of niacinamide on reducing cutaneous pigmentation and suppression of melanosome transfer. – British Journal of Dermatology

How Much Do We Really Know About Our Favorite Cosmeceutical Ingredients? – Journal of Clinical Aesthetic Dermatology

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