Compare tretinoin cream and gel in 0.025%, 0.05% and 0.1% strengths, then go straight to the product that matches each format. This range is for UK shoppers researching tretinoin cream…
Compare tretinoin cream and gel in 0.025%, 0.05% and 0.1% strengths, then go straight to the product that matches each format. This range is for UK shoppers researching tretinoin cream or gel online, including customers replacing a product they already know. Tretinoin is prescription-only in the UK, while this retailer sells internationally manufactured stock through an international retail model. Read the safety information below and speak with a pharmacist or doctor before using tretinoin if you are unsure.
Compare tretinoin strengths and formats
The percentage describes the concentration of tretinoin in the product. Cream and gel are different formulations, so the same percentage should not be assumed to feel identical on the skin. The table shows the tube sizes we currently list.
Strength and formatTypical roleWho it may suitWho should be cautiousTube sizes listed
0.025% creamLower-strength cream commonly considered when starting, or when a cream texture is preferredPeople advised to begin with a lower concentration who prefer a cream baseAnyone with an active flare of eczema, damaged skin, marked sensitivity or an uncertain diagnosis20g, 30g
0.025% gelLower-strength gel option for people who prefer a lighter formulationPeople familiar with gel textures, or advised that a gel is suitablePeople prone to dryness, stinging or irritation, and anyone applying it to broken or eczema-prone skin20g
0.05% creamMid-strength cream optionExisting tretinoin users who tolerate a cream formulation, subject to professional adviceNew users, sensitive or dry skin, and anyone already using several irritating products20g, 30g
0.05% gelMid-strength gel optionExisting users who tolerate tretinoin and prefer a lighter formulationDry or reactive skin, or anyone increasing strength too quicklySee listing
0.1% creamHigher-strength option for experienced users who have established tolerancePeople with prior tretinoin experience, advised that this concentration is appropriateNew users, sensitive or damaged skin, and anyone with persistent irritation20g, 30g
0.1% gelHigher-strength gel, including a microsphere gelExperienced users who prefer a lighter formulationNew users and anyone with dry, sensitive or damaged skin15g, 20g
0.025% tretinoin
0.025% is the lowest concentration we list. It is often the concentration people investigate when they want to introduce tretinoin gradually, but the correct choice depends on the product, the condition being treated, other skincare and personal tolerance.
Tretin 0.025% Tretinoin Cream 30g
Tretiheal 0.025% Tretinoin Cream 20g
A-Ret 0.025% Tretinoin Gel 20g
0.05% tretinoin
The 0.05% range includes creams and a gel. Each item has its own listing, so check that page for the current tube size, ingredients, storage information and expiry details before ordering. If you are new to tretinoin, ask a pharmacist or doctor about strength and frequency.
Tretin 0.05% Tretinoin Cream 30g
Tretiheal 0.05% Tretinoin Cream 20g
A-Ret 0.05% Tretinoin Gel
0.1% tretinoin
0.1% is the highest strength we list. It should not be treated as a default upgrade, and a higher percentage can be harder to tolerate. Review the label and expiry before use, particularly if you are replacing a familiar product with a different brand.
Tretinoin 0.1% Cream 20g
Tretin 0.1% Tretinoin Cream USP 30g
Acnelyse 0.1% Tretinoin Cream 20g
Tretimaxx 0.1% Tretinoin Cream 20g
Tretinoin 0.1% Gel 20g
My Tret 0.1% Tretinoin Microsphere Gel 15g
Tretinoin combination creams
Some listings combine tretinoin with other ingredients, such as azelaic acid, hydroquinone or a corticosteroid. These are different products from plain tretinoin and carry their own warnings, so read each listing in full.
Xtralight Tretinoin 0.05% and Azelaic Acid 10% Cream 15g
Skin Light Hydroquinone, Tretinoin and Mometasone Cream 25g
Melacare Hydroquinone, Tretinoin and Mometasone Cream 25g
Tri-Luma Cream
Where our stock comes from
Our tretinoin products are internationally manufactured and supplied through an international retail model. The product name, brand, strength, tube size, batch details and expiry information vary by item. Our ranges include A-Ret, Acnelyse, Tretin, Tretiheal and Tretimaxx. Where a listing does not identify the legal manufacturer, we say so rather than inventing one.
Before dispatch we check that the item matches the order, the packaging is present and not visibly damaged, the strength and format correspond with the listing, and the printed batch and expiry details are readable on the packaging. Check the product when it arrives. Do not use it if the seal, tube, label or packaging appears damaged, altered or inconsistent with the listing. Contact us before opening it.
Tretinoin safety information
Tretinoin is a topical retinoid and can cause dryness, redness, peeling, stinging or increased sensitivity, especially when treatment begins or the frequency is increased. This information is general product guidance, not a diagnosis or a personal treatment plan. For UK clinical guidance, see the NHS information on acne treatment.
Start low and slow. Many people begin on two non-consecutive nights a week, then increase only if their skin remains comfortable.
Use a pea-sized amount for the whole face, applied as a thin layer to clean, completely dry skin at night. Avoid the eyes, lips, corners of the nose and broken skin.
Use a bland moisturiser to support comfort. Avoid adding several exfoliating, peeling or drying products at the same time.
Use broad-spectrum sunscreen in the morning and limit unnecessary sun exposure. Tretinoin can make skin more sensitive to sunlight.
Mild dryness or flaking can occur. If burning, swelling, severe redness, blistering or persistent irritation develops, stop and seek advice from a pharmacist or doctor. Do not increase frequency to make up for missed applications.
Do not use topical tretinoin during pregnancy or when planning a pregnancy. If you become pregnant, stop and contact a healthcare professional. Do not use it while breastfeeding unless a healthcare professional has specifically advised you.
Do not apply tretinoin to cuts, sunburn, active eczema or other damaged skin. Ask a healthcare professional before use if you have a skin condition, use other retinoids, or take medicines that increase irritation or sun sensitivity.
For a fuller explanation of UK routes to tretinoin, including GP, private dermatologist and online prescriber options, read how to get tretinoin in the UK. For a week-by-week starting routine, see tretinoin for beginners.
Frequently asked questions
Is tretinoin prescription-only in the UK?
Yes. Tretinoin is a prescription-only medicine in the UK. A UK prescriber can assess whether it is suitable and select a strength and formulation. This retailer is not a UK prescribing service. It sells internationally manufactured stock, so check the regulatory position and seek professional advice if you are unsure about using the product.
What is the best tretinoin strength for a beginner?
There is no single best strength for every beginner. A lower concentration is commonly discussed when starting because irritation risk depends on concentration, formulation, frequency and skin condition. Start only when the skin is intact, use a small amount infrequently, and ask a pharmacist or doctor to check whether tretinoin is appropriate for you.
Is 0.005% a real tretinoin strength?
0.005% is not the same as 0.05%. In UK searches, 0.005% is usually a misspelling of the commonly listed 0.05% strength, with one extra zero. Check the label carefully before ordering. The products in this range cover 0.025%, 0.05% and 0.1%. There is no 0.005% tretinoin product.
Is tretinoin cream or gel better?
Neither format is universally better. Cream and gel use different bases, and people can find one more comfortable than the other. The right choice depends on the product ingredients, your skin condition, previous tolerance and professional advice. Our guide on choosing cream vs gel covers the differences in detail.
Can I use tretinoin if my skin is sensitive or eczema-prone?
Use caution. Tretinoin can irritate sensitive skin and should not be applied to active eczema, cuts, sunburn or damaged skin. Wait until skin is intact and ask a pharmacist or doctor before starting. Stop and seek advice if severe redness, swelling, blistering or persistent burning occurs.
This page is product information, not medical advice. Tretinoin is a prescription-only medicine in the UK; speak to a pharmacist or doctor if you are unsure whether it is suitable for you.
