Retinoids are a class of topical prescription medications derived from vitamin A that doctors may recommend to treat acne or signs of superficial aging, such as wrinkles, says the American Academy of Dermatology. Although retinoids can be extremely effective, they often result in skin irritation and make your skin more sun-sensitive. According to the AAD, three types of retinoids are prescribed in the United States.
How They Work
When it comes to how retinoids affect the skin, skincare expert Paula Begoun describes it best. Unlike alpha and beta hydroxy acids, which are exfoliants that affect the top layer of your skin, retinoids reach deeper into the middle layer, the dermis, where they "communicate" with skin cells and cause them to form and turn over normally. When used to treat acne, retinoids help prevent clogged pores, resulting in fewer whiteheads and blackheads, says the AAD.
Tretinoin
Tretinoin is a medication in the retinoid family, and it was the first retinoid formulated for topical use, says the AAD. Tretinoin is a natural derivative of vitamin A, and some of these early medications were extremely harsh on the skin. You may recognize this medication by some of the more familiar trade names under which it is sold, such as Retin-A, Retin-A Micro and Renova, says the Mayo Clinic. Tretinoin is prescribed in various formulations, including a liquid, cream, solution and gel. Tretinoin should not be confused with isotretinoin, an oral medication also derived from vitamin A that is used to treat severe acne.
Adapalene
Adapelene is a synthetic retinoid, says the AAD. It unclogs pores and normalizes skin cell turnover like other retinoids; however, it is distinguished by its anti-inflammatory properties. Adapalene is sold under its trade name, Differin, says the Mayo Clinic. Formulations include a cream, solution, gel and swab.
Tazarotene
Tazarotene is also a synthetic retinoid, says the AAD. However, this topical medication must be used with caution by women of child-bearing age, as it has demonstrated the ability to produce birth defects during animal testing. It should not be used by women who are pregnant, says the AAD, and women who do use tazarotene are required to use an effective method of birth control. Tazorac and Avage are the trade names for tazarotene, which is available in a gel or cream, says the Mayo Clinic.
Retinoid Cautions
Retinoids affect the skin in the same manner--and also cause the same side effects. In addition to sensitive skin that burns more easily, retinoids can cause severe irritation--dry, peeling, red skin--to the extent that you may not want to continue to using your medication, cautions Paula Begoun. She goes on to say that your skin has a "unique relationship" with each type of retinoid. If your doctor prescribes a topical retinoid for you that causes extreme sensitivity, it may be a matter of trial and error before you find the one that's gentlest on your skin.
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