Eritretin %4 / %0.025 Jel
Eritretin %4 / %0.025 Jel
Product Description
Product overview
A prescription-strength dual-action gel combining Erythromycin 4% antibiotic with Tretinoin 0.025% retinoid for the targeted treatment of mild to moderate papulo-pustular acne. This potent combination fights acne-causing bacteria while accelerating skin cell turnover to unclog pores and fade post-acne marks.
Kills Acne-Causing Bacteria
Erythromycin 4% is a macrolide antibiotic that suppresses Propionibacterium acnes and reduces inflammation directly at the source.
Texture & feel
SENSORYKills Acne-Causing Bacteria
Erythromycin 4% is a macrolide antibiotic that suppresses Propionibacterium acnes and reduces inflammation directly at the source.
Accelerates Cell Turnover
Tretinoin 0.025% is the gold-standard retinoid that exfoliates dead skin cells, unclogs pores, and prevents new comedones from forming.
Synergistic Dual Action
Tretinoin disrupts the skin barrier to enhance erythromycin penetration, making the antibiotic significantly more effective than when used alone.
Fades Acne Scars & Dark Spots
Tretinoin promotes collagen production and skin renewal, gradually reducing hyperpigmentation and post-inflammatory marks over time.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENOT safe. Contains Tretinoin (a retinoid), which is strictly contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Women of childbearing potential must use contraception during treatment and for 4 weeks after stopping.
Contains no ferments, fatty acids, esters, or polysorbates. The minimal 5-ingredient formula is safe for fungal acne-prone skin.
Oil-free gel formula with a comedogenic rating of 0/5. Contains no pore-clogging ingredients.
Tretinoin significantly increases photosensitivity. Daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen is mandatory. Avoid prolonged sun and UV exposure.
Contains high concentration of denatured alcohol (~93%). Do not smoke or use near open flame during or immediately after application.
Expect a temporary worsening of acne (purging) in the first 2-4 weeks as tretinoin brings underlying congestion to the surface. This is normal and subsides with continued use.
Prolonged use of topical erythromycin may lead to bacterial resistance. Do not combine with other macrolide antibiotics or clindamycin. Follow your prescriber's treatment duration.
Do not use with other topical acne treatments simultaneously. Avoid corticosteroids, astringents, and products with high alcohol content. Space other topicals at different times of day.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSErythromycin 4%Proven
A macrolide antibiotic that inhibits essential protein synthesis in acne-causing bacteria (P. acnes), effectively killing them and reducing inflammatory lesions such as papules and pustules.
- Mechanism: Binds to the 50S ribosomal subunit of bacteria, blocking protein production needed for bacterial survival
- Clinical Data: In a multicentre study of 1,337 patients, pustules were eliminated in 74.3% of cases when combined with tretinoin
- Anti-inflammatory: Also demonstrates anti-inflammatory properties beyond antibacterial action, reducing swelling and redness
Tretinoin (Retinoic Acid) 0.025%Gold Standard
The most potent topical retinoid and the only FDA-approved anti-aging active. Unlike over-the-counter retinol, tretinoin works immediately on the skin without requiring conversion, making it the most effective comedolytic agent available.
- Comedolytic Action: Removes the hardened layer of dead cells on the skin surface, unclogging pores and dissolving blackheads
- Synergy: By altering the skin's horny layer barrier, tretinoin enhances the penetration and effectiveness of erythromycin
- Long-term Benefits: Stimulates collagen production, fades hyperpigmentation, smooths texture, and reduces fine lines
Alcohol Denat. ~93%Vehicle
Denatured ethanol serves as the primary solvent and vehicle in this formulation. It enables quick absorption, delivers the active ingredients into the skin, and creates the lightweight gel texture.
- Function: Dissolves erythromycin and tretinoin for uniform distribution across the skin
- Absorption: Evaporates rapidly, leaving active ingredients on the skin without a greasy residue
BHT (Butylhydroxytoluene) TracePreservative
An antioxidant preservative that protects the formula — particularly the tretinoin — from degradation caused by oxidation and light exposure.
- Stability: Prevents the active ingredients from breaking down, ensuring the product remains effective throughout its shelf life
- Note: May cause local skin reactions (contact dermatitis) or eye irritation in rare cases
Hydroxypropylcellulose TraceThickener
A cellulose-derived polymer that provides the gel consistency. It acts as a binder and thickener, ensuring smooth, even application of the active ingredients on the skin.
- Function: Creates the transparent gel texture and helps the formula adhere to the skin
- Safety: Well-tolerated, non-comedogenic, and non-irritating excipient
5 ingredients
Alcohol Denat., Erythromycin, Hydroxypropylcellulose, BHT, Tretinoin
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply once daily in the evening after cleansing. Do not mix with other topical treatments at the same time. Always use a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen during the day.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Skin
Wash your face with a mild, non-irritating cleanser. Pat completely dry with a clean towel. Wait until skin is fully dry before application.
Apply a Thin Layer
Squeeze a small, pea-sized amount and apply a thin film over the affected areas only. Gently massage with fingertips. Avoid the eyes, eyelids, lips, and nostrils.
Wash Your Hands
Immediately wash your hands after application to prevent accidental transfer to sensitive areas such as the eyes or mouth.
Follow Up with Moisturizer
Wait 10-15 minutes for the gel to absorb, then apply a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to counteract any dryness from the alcohol and tretinoin.
Protect with Sunscreen (Morning)
Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen every morning. Tretinoin makes skin significantly more sensitive to UV rays. Reapply throughout the day as needed.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have mild to moderate papulo-pustular acne (papules, pustules, comedones)
- You want a prescription-strength dual-action treatment in one product
- Over-the-counter acne products have not worked for you
- You also want anti-aging and skin texture improvement benefits
- You prefer a lightweight, oil-free gel formula
- You have fungal acne-prone skin and need a safe acne treatment
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
- You have eczema, rosacea, or acute skin inflammation
- Your skin is extremely sensitive or cannot tolerate alcohol-based products
- You have severe nodulocystic acne (may need oral treatment)
- You cannot commit to daily sunscreen use
- You are already using other topical antibiotics (clindamycin, macrolides)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. The alcohol-based gel absorbs instantly without adding any oiliness. Tretinoin helps regulate sebum production over time.
Works well on oily zones. Apply only to acne-prone areas and use a good moisturizer on drier zones to maintain balance.
Effective and well-tolerated. The drying effect of alcohol is easily managed with a simple moisturizer after application.
The high alcohol content and tretinoin can exacerbate dryness. Use a rich, barrier-repairing moisturizer and consider less frequent application.
May cause redness, peeling, and stinging, especially initially. Start with every other day application and gradually increase frequency under medical supervision.
Specifically designed for acne. Non-comedogenic, oil-free, fungal acne safe formula with clinically proven dual-action mechanism.
Results timeline
WEEK 12+ (3 MONTHS)Initial Purging Phase
Tretinoin begins drawing out underlying congestion. Expect temporary worsening of breakouts, mild redness, and some peeling. This is a normal and expected response as skin adjusts to the retinoid.
35% noticed initial improvementVisible Clearing Begins
Inflammatory lesions (papules and pustules) start to visibly reduce. Skin texture begins smoothing as dead cell turnover accelerates. Pores appear less congested and blackheads diminish.
58% saw papule reductionSignificant Improvement
Majority of patients experience substantial clearing of acne lesions. Skin appears clearer, smoother, and more even-toned. Post-inflammatory marks begin fading as new healthy skin emerges.
74% saw pustule eliminationFull Treatment Results
Optimal results are typically seen after the recommended 3-month treatment course. Comedones eliminated in 47% of patients, with an additional 41% showing marked improvement. Skin is significantly clearer with improved texture and reduced scarring.
88%+ showed improvementRatings by platform
450+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Dual-action formula treats multiple acne causes in one step
- Clinically proven with large-scale study data (1,337 patients)
- Ultra-minimal 5-ingredient formula reduces irritation risk from extras
- Fungal acne safe — rare among prescription acne treatments
- Non-comedogenic with a 0/5 comedogenic rating
- Tretinoin provides additional anti-aging and skin texture benefits
- Lightweight gel absorbs quickly with a matte finish
- Oil-free, fragrance-free, paraben-free, silicone-free
Criticized
- Strong alcohol smell that can sting when applied near nose
- Significant purging phase in the first 2-4 weeks
- High alcohol content is very drying — requires good moisturizer
- Not safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Prescription required — not available over the counter
- Small 30g tube may run out quickly for larger treatment areas
- Risk of antibiotic resistance with prolonged use
- Flammable formula — must avoid fire/smoking after application
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESContains the same 0.025% tretinoin concentration but without the erythromycin antibiotic. Cream vehicle instead of gel. Ideal if you only need the retinoid component for comedonal acne and are not dealing with inflammatory papules/pustules.
Swaps tretinoin for benzoyl peroxide, which also fights bacteria and is pregnancy-safe. Different mechanism — BP kills bacteria via oxidation rather than cell turnover. Requires refrigeration. No retinoid anti-aging benefits.
Uses clindamycin (a lincosamide antibiotic) instead of erythromycin. Same tretinoin concentration. May have lower bacterial resistance risk depending on local patterns. Widely available as a compounded or brand-name product.
Over-the-counter retinol (weaker than tretinoin) with no antibiotic. Requires conversion to retinoic acid in the skin, so significantly less potent. No prescription needed. Better for anti-aging focus than active acne treatment.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEEritretin 4%/0.025% Gel (Bailleul)
Isotrexin Gel (Stiefel/GSK)
Acnelyse 0.025% Cream (Abdi Ibrahim)
Storage & shelf life
6 MONTHS6 months after opening. Use within expiry date printed on packaging.
Store at room temperature (20-25°C / 68-77°F). Keep away from heat, fire, and open flames. Keep the tube tightly closed when not in use to prevent leakage.
30g aluminum tube with screw cap. Protects the light-sensitive tretinoin from UV degradation.
Yes, under 100ml. However, contains flammable alcohol — check airline regulations for flammable medical products in carry-on luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQNo. Eritretin Gel contains Tretinoin (0.025%), a vitamin A derivative (retinoid) that is strictly contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Retinoids are known teratogens and can cause serious birth defects. Women of childbearing potential must use effective contraception during the entire treatment period and for at least 4 weeks after stopping. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, do not use this product and consult your dermatologist for pregnancy-safe acne alternatives such as azelaic acid or benzoyl peroxide.
Yes. Eritretin Gel has only 5 ingredients and does not contain any of the triggers known to feed malassezia yeast — no fatty acids, fatty alcohols, esters, polysorbates, oils, or fermented ingredients. The alcohol-based gel vehicle and the minimal formulation make it one of the most fungal acne-friendly prescription acne treatments available. The tretinoin component also helps by increasing skin cell turnover, which can reduce the environment where fungal overgrowth thrives.
It is not recommended to use Eritretin Gel simultaneously with other active ingredients. Since Eritretin already contains tretinoin (a retinoid), do not layer additional retinol or retinoid products on top — this can cause severe irritation. Similarly, AHAs (glycolic acid, lactic acid), BHAs (salicylic acid), and vitamin C (ascorbic acid) can increase skin sensitivity and irritation when combined with tretinoin. If you wish to incorporate these actives, use them at different times of day (e.g., vitamin C in the morning, Eritretin at night) and only after your skin has fully adjusted to the tretinoin. Always consult your dermatologist before combining prescription treatments with other actives.
Eritretin Gel is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. Its alcohol-based gel formula absorbs quickly and leaves a matte finish, which is ideal for oily skin. Those with dry or sensitive skin can still use it but may experience more dryness and irritation — in these cases, less frequent application (every other day) and a richer moisturizer are recommended. The product is specifically designed for mild to moderate papulo-pustular acne and works well for those who have both inflammatory and comedonal acne types.
Based on clinical studies, approximately 35% of patients noticed improvement within the first 2 weeks. However, the first 2-4 weeks often involve a "purging" phase where skin may temporarily worsen as tretinoin brings underlying congestion to the surface. The first clear signs of improvement typically appear between weeks 4 and 8. Full results are seen after the recommended 3-month treatment course, at which point clinical data shows pustule elimination in 74.3% of patients and comedone elimination in 47%. Patience is key — do not stop treatment during the initial purging phase.
Apply Eritretin Gel once daily, typically in the evening. Your routine should be: (1) Gentle cleanser, (2) Pat skin completely dry, (3) Apply a thin layer of Eritretin Gel to affected areas, (4) Wait 10-15 minutes for absorption, (5) Apply a gentle moisturizer. In the morning, follow your regular routine but always include a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen. Do not mix Eritretin with other topical treatments at the same time — if you use other topicals, apply them at different times of the day.
No. Eritretin Gel has a comedogenic rating of 0 out of 5. It is completely oil-free and contains no known pore-clogging ingredients. With only 5 ingredients — alcohol denat., erythromycin, hydroxypropylcellulose, BHT, and tretinoin — the formula is one of the most minimalist acne treatments available. In fact, the tretinoin in the formula actively works to unclog pores by removing dead skin cell buildup and dissolving existing comedones (blackheads and whiteheads).
Eritretin Gel should be used within 6 months after opening. Always check the expiry date printed on the tube and outer packaging. Store the product at room temperature (20-25°C), away from heat and direct sunlight. Keep the tube tightly closed when not in use. Since the formula contains flammable ingredients (high-concentration denatured alcohol), store away from any sources of fire, flame, or excessive heat. Do not use the product after the expiry date has passed.
Verdict: Eritretin %4 / %0.025 Gel is a highly effective, clinically proven prescription treatment for mild to moderate acne. Its unique dual-action formula combining erythromycin antibiotic with tretinoin retinoid tackles acne from multiple angles — killing bacteria, reducing inflammation, unclogging pores, and promoting skin renewal. The ultra-minimal 5-ingredient formula is a standout advantage, making it fungal acne safe and non-comedogenic. The main trade-offs are the high alcohol content (which can be drying and has a medicinal smell), the inevitable purging phase, and the strict pregnancy contraindication. For acne sufferers who have not found success with OTC products, this prescription-strength combination offers a powerful, dermatologist-backed solution with the added bonus of tretinoin's long-term anti-aging benefits. Best for oily and combination skin types willing to commit to the 3-month treatment course and diligent sunscreen use.
Product Overview
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Alcohol Denat.
|
|
|
| 0 |
Erythromycin
|
|
|
| 0 |
Tretinoin
Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 6 |
BHT
Masking, Fragrance, Antioxidant
|
|
|
| 0 |
Hydroxypropylcellulose
Emulsifying, Emulsion Stabilising
|
|




