Tretinoin

Retinoid (skin)
PRESCRIPTION ONLY IN INDIA

Tretinoin is a retinoid (skin) found in 1 medicine sold in India, such as Melacare. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

What it is used for

Speeds up skin renewal; used for acne and dark patches.

How it works

A retinoid cream that speeds up skin cell turnover, unblocking pores in acne and fading pigmentation and fine lines.

How to take it

Apply a pea-sized amount to dry skin at night; start every other night. Use sunscreen; skin irritation in the first weeks is common.

Common side effects

  • Redness
  • Peeling
  • Dryness
  • Burning
  • Sun sensitivity

Get medical help straight away if

Severe blistering or swelling

Be careful

Causes dryness and sun sensitivity; not in pregnancy.

Other medicines and interactions

Do not use with other drying acne products at the same time unless advised (benzoyl peroxide can inactivate some forms).

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Avoid in pregnancy; not recommended while breastfeeding.

Combination medicines that contain Tretinoin (1)

Melacare

Common questions

What is Tretinoin used for?

Speeds up skin renewal; used for acne and dark patches.

How does Tretinoin work?

A retinoid cream that speeds up skin cell turnover, unblocking pores in acne and fading pigmentation and fine lines.

How should I take Tretinoin?

Apply a pea-sized amount to dry skin at night; start every other night. Use sunscreen; skin irritation in the first weeks is common.

What are the side effects of Tretinoin?

Common: Redness, peeling, dryness, burning, sun sensitivity. Get help straight away for: Severe blistering or swelling.

Does Tretinoin interact with other medicines?

Do not use with other drying acne products at the same time unless advised (benzoyl peroxide can inactivate some forms).

Is Tretinoin safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Avoid in pregnancy; not recommended while breastfeeding.

Does Tretinoin need a prescription in India?

Yes. In India it is a prescription (Schedule H) medicine, so a pharmacist should sell it only with a doctor's prescription.

Which brands contain Tretinoin?

Melacare.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.