A-Ret 0.025%: price, uses & cheaper substitutes

Retino-A contains tretinoin, a vitamin A derivative that speeds up skin cell turnover and unclogs pores. It treats blackheads, whiteheads and pimples, and with longer use smooths fine lines, rough texture and dark spots from sun damage.

Apply a pea-sized amount to a completely dry face at night, every second or third night for the first 2 to 4 weeks, then build up to nightly. Use a moisturiser with it and sunscreen every morning. Burning, peeling and redness in the first weeks are normal; blistering or swelling is not – stop and see a dermatologist.

Tretinoin pushes clogged material to the surface, so acne can flare for the first 2 to 4 weeks – called "purging". It usually settles by week 6 to 8. Keep going unless the irritation is severe; clear improvement takes 8 to 12 weeks.

Start with 0.025%, the lowest strength, especially on Indian skin which can darken easily if irritated. Your dermatologist may step you up to 0.05% after a few months if it is well tolerated and more effect is needed. Stronger is not faster – it is just more irritating.