Does tretinoin 0.05 help with acne scars?

Author: Sterling Wisoky  |  Last update: Saturday, September 6, 2025

Yes, tretinoin may help with scars on the face, especially if they are related to acne and they are relatively new.

What percentage of tretinoin is best for acne scars?

For experienced retinoid users and those with severe acne, hyperpigmentation or wrinkles, 0.1% Tretinoin strength may be needed. This highest concentration is up to 20X stronger than retinol.

How long does tretinoin take to fade acne scars?

Retin-A (tretinoin) is a topical medication used for the treatment of acne, wrinkles, and skin damage from the sun. It belongs to a class of medications called retinoids. Retin-A starts working in as early as 2 weeks for acne. But its full benefits are more often seen within 12 weeks (3 months) of regular use.

Is tretinoin .05 good for acne?

A novel tretinoin 0.05% lotion formulation was an effective and well‐tolerated topical treatment for moderate‐to‐severe comedonal and inflammatory preadolescent acne.

How long does it take tretinoin 0.05 to work acne?

During the first 3 weeks you are using tretinoin, your skin may become irritated. Also, your acne may seem to get worse before it gets better. It may take longer than 12 weeks before you notice full improvement of your acne, even if you use the medicine every day.

Tretinoin for acne scars

Does tretinoin really clear acne?

Historically, tretinoin (all-trans retinoic acid) has been used as a comedolytic agent to treat mild-to moderate acne. Used as a stand-alone treatment or in combination with antibacterials, its ability to stimulate the growth of new cells, unclog pores, and promote the normal flow of sebum is well-proven.

Are acne scars permanent with tretinoin?

So, how does tretinoin help with acne scars and dark spots? According to Dr. Carolina Fernandez, dermatologist, tretinoin is very effective for acne scars and dark spots because it works by increasing skin cell turnover and promoting collagen production, which can help fade the appearance of scars over time.

Is tretinoin 3 times a week enough?

You should aim to use tretinoin every night, however, you must start slowly as your skin needs to get used to it. The first 2 weeks apply it 2 to 3 nights per week, after that try applying it every other day, and then if your skin can handle it, apply it every night.

What does tretinoin purge look like?

Skin purging is common, but doesn't necessarily happen to everyone. In fact some people don't experience it at all. For those of us who do suffer from purging, it can look like: breaking out in pustules (pimples), the appearance of flaky, peeling skin, irritation and dry patches.

Is tretinoin 0.025 or 0.05 stronger?

In general a lower tretinoin strength (0.025%) may be used for mild to moderate acne, while higher strengths (0.05% or 0.1%) may be used for more severe or stubborn acne,” says Dr. Anna Chacon, dermatologist.

How to get rid of indented acne scars?

Some medicated creams, such as those containing azelaic acid or hydroxyl acids, might help too. Soft tissue fillers. Injecting collagen, fat or other substances under the skin can plump the skin over indented scars. The goal is to make the scars less noticeable.

Which is better for acne scars benzoyl peroxide or tretinoin?

The takeaway

The combination of tretinoin and benzoyl peroxide offers an effective solution for acne due to their synergistic effects. Tretinoin enhances skin cell renewal and prevents pore blockages, while benzoyl peroxide kills the bacteria that causes acne and reduces oil production.

What percentage of tretinoin should I take for acne scars?

Atrophic scars are a frequent consequence of acne, with a negative esthetic and psychological influence. Treatment of atrophic acne scars includes different invasive methods. In our study, we used a noninvasive method with local application of 0.05% tretinoin gel by iontophoresis.

Does tretinoin help hormonal acne?

How do I treat hormonal acne? Based on the severity of your acne, different treatment options are available to reduce sebum production, pimple formation and painful inflammation: Blackheads and whiteheads: Topical cream (tretinoin). Inflammatory acne: Topical retinoid and/or topical antibiotic and/or benzoyl peroxide.

How long does tretinoin 0.05 take to work?

So, how long does it take for tretinoin to work? So, when can you see the first results? According to Dr. Mohta, most patients using tretinoin for the first time will begin to notice a positive effect after approximately 10 weeks, if you are using it every 2-3 days.

Can I put tretinoin on active acne?

Tretinoin is a topical retinoid that's derived from vitamin A. Research shows that tretinoin is one of the most effective medications available for removing existing acne and preventing acne from returning.

What moisturizer is best with tretinoin?

Three inexpensive moisturizers that our physicians love are Vanicream Daily Facial Lotion with Hyaluronic Acid, Neutrogena Hydroboost Gel, and The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid Serum. All three of these are affordable, non-comedogenic,and blend well with tretinoin.

How fast can tretinoin fade acne scars?

At the end of 12 weeks, significant improvement in acne scars was noticed in 91.4% of the patients.

Why am I still breaking out with tretinoin?

Skin purging is a common side effect of using tretinoin. It usually appears right after the medication is first used, or when you increase the dosage. This can be a shocking experience for new users.

What does an atrophic scar look like?

Atrophic scars are the opposite of hypertrophic scars. They are depressed, sunken and often have a pitted appearance.

Does tretinoin help with deep acne scars?

A very strong type of retinol is called tretinoin. You need a prescription to get it as a gel, cream, or lotion. Research shows that tretinoin can reduce acne scars, even if you've had them for a while and even if they're severe. Your doctor may use tretinoin in some in-office treatments.

How long does tretinoin purge last?

How long does a tretinoin purge last? Results will vary from person to person. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends waiting four to six weeks for any new skin care treatment to start clearing up skin. If you are experiencing purge symptoms after six weeks, talk to your provider.

Does tretinoin grow hair?

Tretinoin was shown to stimulate some hair regrowth in approximately 58% of the subjects studied. One female subject with pronounced alopecia for more than 20 years had regrowth of hair using only tretinoin for a period of 18 months.

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