Tretinoin 0.05% Gel
Tretinoin 0.05% Gel
Product Description
A prescription-strength retinoid gel featuring 0.05% tretinoin (all-trans retinoic acid) in a lightweight, micronized formula with hydrating sodium hyaluronate and fish collagen. FDA-approved for acne treatment with proven benefits for fine lines, wrinkles, and skin texture improvement.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Micronized Tretinoin Technology
Smaller particle size allows for better absorption and more even distribution across the skin surface.
Hydrating Base Formula
Contains sodium hyaluronate and fish collagen hydrolyzates to help counteract drying effects of tretinoin.
Multi-Action Benefits
Treats acne, reduces fine lines and wrinkles, improves skin texture, and helps fade hyperpigmentation.
Medical-Grade Quality
Developed by Obagi Medical with over 35 years of dermatological research and clinical testing.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Tretinoin is a retinoid - avoid during pregnancy. Classified as FDA Category C with potential risk of birth defects. Discontinue use if planning pregnancy.
While minimal systemic absorption occurs topically, most experts advise avoiding tretinoin during breastfeeding as a precaution.
Tretinoin itself may help fungal acne, but the gel formula contains fish collagen hydrolyzates which could potentially feed Malassezia. Monitor skin response.
Gel formulation is lightweight and non-greasy. Unlikely to clog pores when used as directed.
Tretinoin increases photosensitivity. Always use SPF 30+ sunscreen during the day. Avoid sunlamps and excessive sun exposure.
Avoid combining with other potentially irritating topicals like benzoyl peroxide, sulfur, resorcinol, or salicylic acid without medical guidance.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
β Tretinoin 0.05% Gold Standard
The only FDA-approved topical retinoid for treating both acne and photoaging. Works at the cellular level to normalize skin cell turnover, reduce sebum production, and stimulate collagen synthesis.
- Mechanism: Binds to retinoic acid receptors (RARs) to regulate gene expression in skin cells
- Acne: Normalizes keratinization, unclogs pores, reduces inflammation
- Anti-aging: Clinically proven to reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and improve skin texture
- Pigmentation: Helps fade dark spots and even skin tone over time
π§ Sodium Hyaluronate Hydrating
Low molecular weight form of hyaluronic acid that penetrates deeper into the skin. Helps counteract the drying effects of tretinoin by attracting and retaining moisture.
- Hydration: Can hold up to 1000x its weight in water
- Penetration: Smaller molecular size than hyaluronic acid allows better absorption
- Support: Helps maintain skin barrier function during retinoid treatment
π Fish Collagen Hydrolyzates Moisturizing
Hydrolyzed collagen derived from fish sources that helps increase skin moisture content and improve texture. Works as a humectant to support skin during tretinoin use.
- Source: Marine-derived for bioavailability
- Function: Helps maintain skin hydration and suppleness
- Compatibility: Gentle enough for sensitive skin types
𧴠Glycerin Humectant
A proven humectant that attracts water to the skin. Helps maintain hydration levels and softens the skin while using this potentially drying prescription treatment.
- Safety: EWG rated 1 (lowest hazard)
- Function: Draws moisture from the environment to hydrate skin
- Compatibility: Well-tolerated by most skin types including sensitive skin
πΏ Trolamine (Triethanolamine) Soothing
An organic compound that helps calm inflammation and acts as a pH adjuster in the formula. Contributes to the gel's smooth texture and helps reduce irritation.
- Function: Helps neutralize the formula and creates optimal pH for tretinoin
- Benefit: Anti-inflammatory properties help soothe skin
- Role: Emulsifying agent that improves product texture
17 ingredients
Tretinoin (0.05%), Benzyl Alcohol, Butylparaben, Butylated Hydroxytoluene, Carbomer Homopolymer Type C, Ethylparaben, Fish Collagen Hydrolyzates, Glycerin, Isobutylparaben, Methylparaben, Octoxynol-9, Phenoxyethanol, Propylparaben, Purified Water, Sodium Hyaluronate, Trolamine
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Apply at night only. Always use SPF 30+ sunscreen in the morning. Start 2-3x per week and gradually increase to nightly use.
π How to Use
Cleanse Thoroughly
Wash face with a mild, non-irritating cleanser. Pat dry completely - this is important to prevent irritation.
Wait 20-30 Minutes
Allow skin to dry completely. Applying tretinoin to damp skin increases irritation and sensitivity.
Apply Pea-Sized Amount
Squeeze about half an inch (pea-sized) onto fingertip. More product does not mean better results and may increase irritation.
Spread Evenly
Apply to forehead, chin, and both cheeks first, then spread over entire affected area. Avoid eyes, nose corners, mouth, and open wounds.
Follow with Moisturizer
Wait 5-10 minutes for absorption, then apply a non-comedogenic moisturizer to help combat dryness.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You have persistent acne not responding to OTC treatments
- You want to address early signs of aging (fine lines, wrinkles)
- You have hyperpigmentation or uneven skin tone
- You prefer a gel formula over cream (oily/combination skin)
- You can commit to consistent, long-term use
- You already use sunscreen daily
β Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
- You have eczema or extremely sensitive/reactive skin
- You cannot avoid significant sun exposure
- You want immediate results (tretinoin takes weeks to months)
- You have a history of severe skin reactions to retinoids
- You are under 10 years old (not established for this age group)
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Gel formula is ideal for oily skin. Lightweight, non-greasy, and helps reduce sebum production over time.
May experience more dryness and peeling. Cream formulation often better suited. Requires robust moisturizing routine.
Great balance for combination skin. Gel texture won't add oiliness to T-zone while treating concerns effectively.
Start with lower strength (0.025%). Expect adjustment period. Consider buffering with moisturizer. Work closely with dermatologist.
FDA-approved for acne treatment. Prevents comedones, reduces inflammation, and helps prevent future breakouts with consistent use.
π Results Timeline
Adjustment Phase Begins
Skin may experience initial dryness, tightness, and mild peeling. Some users notice a "purging" phase where breakouts temporarily worsen as tretinoin accelerates cell turnover.
80% experience some drynessPeak Adjustment Period
Purging typically peaks during this time. Redness and peeling may be most pronounced. Skin is building tolerance. This is when many people want to quit - don't!
60% see temporary breakout increaseVisible Improvements Begin
Acne starts clearing noticeably. Skin texture begins to smooth. Purging subsides. Fine lines may start to soften. Skin adapts to tretinoin.
75% notice acne improvementSignificant Transformation
Major improvements in acne, texture, and tone. Fine lines visibly reduced. Hyperpigmentation fading. Skin appears brighter and more even. Full acne benefits typically seen.
85% report significant improvementOptimal Results & Maintenance
Maximum anti-aging benefits become apparent. Continued improvement in wrinkles, firmness, and overall skin quality. Results maintained with ongoing use.
90% achieve desired resultsβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- FDA-approved gold standard for acne and photoaging
- Micronized formula for better absorption
- Contains hydrating ingredients (sodium hyaluronate, collagen)
- Lightweight gel texture ideal for oily skin
- Fragrance-free formulation
- Clinically proven with decades of research
- Multi-benefit: acne, wrinkles, texture, pigmentation
- Works at cellular level for lasting results
β Criticized
- Requires prescription - not accessible to everyone
- Initial purging and irritation period (2-6 weeks)
- Significantly increases sun sensitivity
- Not safe for pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Contains parabens (concern for some users)
- Higher price than generic tretinoin (~$92 vs ~$30)
- Results take months to become visible
- Can be too drying for very dry skin types
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Same active ingredient at same concentration. May have different inactive ingredients. Works just as effectively for most users at a fraction of the cost.
OTC third-generation retinoid. Less irritating than tretinoin with similar acne-fighting efficacy. Not as effective for anti-aging as tretinoin.
Generic tretinoin manufactured in India. Same active ingredient. Quality can vary. Often used by skincare enthusiasts seeking affordable tretinoin.
OTC retinol (not tretinoin). Much gentler but less potent. Better for retinoid beginners or those who can't tolerate prescription strength.
π Comparison with Competitors
Obagi Tretinoin 0.05% Gel (This Product)
~$92Retin-A Micro (Tretinoin) 0.04%
~$350+Differin (Adapalene) Gel 0.1%
~$13Aklief (Trifarotene) Cream 0.005%
~$500+π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening. Check expiration date on tube.
Store at controlled room temperature 20Β°-25Β°C (68Β°-77Β°F). Protect from freezing. Keep away from heat and light.
Aluminum tube with screw cap. Protects light-sensitive tretinoin from degradation.
Yes, 20g tube is under 100ml TSA limit. Keep in toiletry bag away from extreme temperatures.
β Frequently Asked Questions
No. Tretinoin is a retinoid and should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It is classified as FDA Pregnancy Category C, meaning risk to the fetus cannot be ruled out. Animal studies have shown potential for birth defects. While topical tretinoin has minimal systemic absorption, most dermatologists recommend discontinuing use at least 1 month before trying to conceive and throughout pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Use with caution. Tretinoin itself can actually help fungal acne by increasing cell turnover and reducing conditions that allow Malassezia to thrive. However, this specific Obagi gel formulation contains fish collagen hydrolyzates, which may potentially feed Malassezia yeast in some individuals. If you have fungal acne, consider using a simpler tretinoin gel formula or monitor your skin's response carefully.
Proceed with caution. Combining tretinoin with other active ingredients can increase irritation. Retinol: Not recommended - redundant and increases irritation risk. Vitamin C: Use in AM routine only (tretinoin at night). Some formulas can destabilize when combined. AHA/BHA: Not recommended to use together. Can cause severe irritation and damage skin barrier. If using acids, apply on alternating nights or consult your dermatologist for a safe routine.
This gel formulation is best for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The lightweight gel texture absorbs quickly without adding greasiness or shine. Those with dry or sensitive skin may prefer the cream formulation, which has a more emollient base. Regardless of skin type, expect an adjustment period with dryness and peeling.
Expect 8-12 weeks for noticeable acne improvement and 3-6 months for anti-aging benefits. The first 2-6 weeks often involve a "purging" phase where skin may temporarily worsen. Skin texture improvements typically appear around week 6-8. Full anti-aging results (wrinkle reduction, improved firmness) develop over 6-12 months of consistent use.
Apply tretinoin at night only, after cleansing and waiting 20-30 minutes for skin to dry completely. The typical routine is: Cleanser β Wait 20-30 min β Tretinoin β Wait 5-10 min β Moisturizer. In the morning, focus on hydration and always use SPF 30+ sunscreen. Do not apply tretinoin before sun exposure.
No, this gel has low comedogenic potential (rated 1/5). Tretinoin actually helps prevent clogged pores by normalizing cell turnover and reducing sebum production. The gel formula is lightweight and oil-free. However, during the initial adjustment period, you may experience what looks like breakouts - this is "purging" as tretinoin brings existing clogs to the surface faster.
12 months after opening (PAO). Tretinoin is photosensitive, meaning it can degrade when exposed to light and air. Store the tube tightly closed in a cool, dark place. The aluminum tube packaging helps protect the formula. Check the expiration date printed on the tube and discard if expired, as efficacy may be reduced.
Verdict: Obagi Tretinoin 0.05% Gel is a premium medical-grade retinoid that delivers the gold standard in prescription skincare. The micronized formula with added sodium hyaluronate and fish collagen sets it apart from basic generic tretinoin, offering better absorption and hydration support during the challenging adjustment period. While the higher price point (~$92 vs ~$30 for generics) may not be justified for everyone, those seeking a more refined tretinoin experience with hydrating ingredients will appreciate this formulation. Ideal for oily/combination skin with acne and early signs of aging. Not for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Patience is key - commit to 3-6 months for transformative results.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
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.
Pro Tip Alert!
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
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skinβs own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
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 Β«promisesΒ» 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.
Pro Tip Alert!
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
Anti-Aging from 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
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.
Pro Tip Alert!
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
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
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.
Pro Tip Alert!
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 |
Tretinoin
Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 5 |
Benzyl Alcohol
Solvent, Masking, Fragrance, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Preservative, External Analgesic, Perfuming
|
|
|
| 0 |
Butylparaben
Masking, Preservative
|
|
|
| 6 |
BHT
Masking, Fragrance, Antioxidant
|
|
|
| 1 |
Carbomer
Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Gel Forming
|
|