Beyond Retinol: Why Prescription Tretinoin Makes All the Difference for Skin Health & Anti-Aging
by Margaret Kontras Sutton, MD
I am often asked what I recommend for a skincare program. My answer is always the same:
#1: Sunscreen.
#2: A topical vitamin A-related cream, such as tretinoin.
Tretinoin topical cream is a powerful, prescription-strength generic version of Retin-A. Long-term use offers significant benefits for anti-aging, including:
- Improving skin texture
- Smoothing the skin’s surface
- Stimulating collagen production
- Reducing hyperpigmentation
I’ve been a fan of this medication for over 30 years and have seen the results firsthand in patients who use it consistently.
Unlike over-the-counter retinol, tretinoin is more potent and works faster to increase cell turnover. While some patients may experience dryness or irritation in the beginning, these side effects can be managed with moisturizers and by easing into use gradually. Over time, tretinoin delivers clearer, more even-toned, and resilient skin—outperforming over-the-counter options in nearly every way.
Simply put, tretinoin remains the gold standard for those seeking transformative, long-term skin benefits.
If you’d like to explore whether tretinoin is right for you, give us a call (402.484.9009), schedule an appointment with us online or bring it up at your next visit. For added convenience, we can even fill your tretinoin prescription at our in-house pharmacy the very same day!
Margaret Kontras Sutton, MD, is a contributing author to the Sutton Smart Skin Blog. Dr. Sutton is a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Sutton Dermatology + Aesthetics, with a special interest in skin cancer prevention and treatment, as well as promoting healthy skin at every age.
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