Retinoids are medications that are chemically similar to vitamin A. They are available in both over-the-counter and prescription strengths, as well as in topical and oral forms. Retinoids have been used to remedy multiple diseases and conditions, including acne, psoriasis, wrinkles and age spots, and have even been experimented with as a treatment for skin cancer, according to the American Cancer Society.
Acitretin
Acitretin, sold as Soriatane, is an oral retinoid. Acitretin is primarily used to treat Darier's disease and psoriasis, but can also be used for other skin disorders characterized by abnormal skin cell growth. Acitretin is also used in the chemoprevention of skin cancer with transplant patients, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation.
Adapalene
Adapalene, sold under the brand name Differin, is a synthetic topical retinoid that is often used to treat problems with acne and other skin-related diseases. Adapalene works by helping unclog blocked skin pores, and providing mild anti-inflammatory properties.
Tazarotene
Tazarotene, sold on the market as Tazorac or Avage, is a synthetic topical retinoid primarily used in the treatment of acne to help keep acne-prone follicles on the skin free of comedone plugs (blackheads and whiteheads), according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). Tazarotene can also be used to fight off the accelerated signs of aging due to unprotected exposure to the sun (photoaging).
Tretinoin
Tretinoin, sold as Retin-A and Renova, is a topical retinoid. Like tazarotene, tretinoin is primarily used to unclog skin follicles affected by acne. The drug can also be used to reduce the signs of photoaging, such as wrinkles and age spots.
Isotretinoin
Isotretinoin is one of the most potent retinoids available on the market, and is typically reserved for the treatment of only the most severe cases of acne, such as acne cysts and nodules, according to the AAD. Isotretinoin addresses all the major causes of acne, including inflammation, bacterial infection, sebum oil production and blocked pores. Isotretinoin comes with potentially serious fetal side effects if used or directly handled by pregnant women. As such, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has developed the iPLEDGE program to monitor the drug's use and prevent serious side effects.
