Retin-A Micro Gel Pump® (Tretinoin Microsphere) for Acne

What Retin-A Micro® Is and How It Works

Retin-A Micro® is a topical tretinoin microsphere gel for acne. The Retin-A Micro Gel Pump delivers a measured dose with each press. It treats comedonal and inflammatory acne on the face, chest, and back. The microsphere technology slowly releases tretinoin to the skin. This can help reduce irritation while keeping efficacy. It is usually applied once daily in the evening.

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Tretinoin is a retinoid that increases cell turnover. It helps unclog pores, reduces new comedones, and improves texture. The gel base suits normal to oily skin. The pump format increases convenience and helps consistent dosing.

Dosage and Usage

Follow the prescriber’s directions on strength and application. Many patients start at a lower strength and adjust as tolerated.

• Wash with a mild cleanser. Pat skin completely dry.
• At night, apply a pea-sized amount to the entire affected area.
• Spread a thin layer. Avoid eyes, eyelids, lips, and mucous membranes.
• Use a non-comedogenic moisturizer if needed to reduce dryness.
• Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen each morning during use.

Strengths available in pump packaging may include 0.06% and 0.08% tretinoin. The prescriber may adjust based on response and tolerance. If a dose is missed, apply the next evening. Do not double up. Initial dryness or mild stinging can occur. Many patients ease in by using it every other night, then moving to nightly as tolerated.

• Storage: Keep at 20–25°C (68–77°F). Do not freeze.
• Keep the cap on and the pump clean and dry.
• Travel: Pack upright in a sealed bag. Protect from heat.
• Do not store in a hot car or near direct sunlight.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets.

Benefits and Savings

Retin-A Micro® can reduce blackheads, whiteheads, and inflammatory lesions. Skin texture and tone may improve with continued use. The controlled-release microspheres help deliver tretinoin gradually. That may improve tolerability compared with conventional gels. The pump format offers neat, measured doses and less waste.

Ordering from YouDrugstore gives access to Canadian pricing and support. Many customers report 60–80% savings compared with typical US prices. Multi-month supplies can lower the per-month cost when permitted by the prescription.

Side Effects and Safety

Topical tretinoin is widely used and studied. Most side effects are skin related and improve with routine care.

• Common: dryness, peeling, redness, tightness, mild burning or stinging, sun sensitivity.
• Less common: itching, skin discoloration, increased irritation with harsh products.
• Serious: severe redness, swelling, blistering, crusting, or allergic reaction. Stop use and seek medical care.

Avoid waxing or abrasive products on treated areas. Limit other irritating topicals such as high-strength acids during initiation. Use sunscreen daily and protective clothing. Tretinoin is not recommended in pregnancy. Discuss use while breastfeeding with the prescriber.

Onset Time

Some patients see a mild flare in the first 1–2 weeks as pores clear. Visible improvement often appears after 2–4 weeks. More consistent results build by 8–12 weeks, with continued gains over several months. Use as directed and be patient with the routine.

Compare With Alternatives

Tretinoin is available in several forms. The microsphere gel in a pump releases tretinoin slowly. Conventional gel or cream releases it immediately. Patients with drier skin may prefer a cream base, such as Retin A® Cream. Oilier or combination skin may prefer a gel, such as Retin A® Gel.

Another choice is the same microsphere formulation without the pump. Some patients use Retin A® Micro Gel if pump packaging is unavailable.

Non-tretinoin options include adapalene and tazarotene. Adapalene can be gentler for some users. Tazarotene can be more potent but may cause more irritation. The right choice depends on skin type, acne severity, tolerance, and treatment goals.

Combination Therapy

Tretinoin often pairs well with other acne treatments. Many routines use benzoyl peroxide in the morning and tretinoin at night. Topical antibiotics or benzoyl peroxide combinations can target bacteria and inflammation. Oral antibiotics, spironolactone, or isotretinoin may be considered for specific cases. Space products to reduce irritation. Moisturize with non-comedogenic products. Avoid harsh scrubs and strong astringents.

Patient Suitability and Cost-Saving Tips

Retin-A Micro® suits many patients with comedonal or mixed acne. The gel base fits normal to oily skin. Those with sensitive or very dry skin may need slower titration. Patients with rosacea can be more reactive to retinoids. Discuss suitability if there is a history of eczema, dermatitis, or frequent irritation.

To control costs, consider larger supply sizes when allowed by the prescription. Reorder reminders help prevent gaps that can set back results. Multi-month promotions can reduce the monthly price. For current offers and bulk options, see our retin a micro pump coupon page.

Read more about acne care in our short guide, Clarus Acne Treatment Your Solution For Clearer Skin. For condition background, visit Acne and Sun Damaged Skin to learn about related topics.

Authoritative Sources

For full product details, see the manufacturer’s information on Bausch Health: Retin-A Micro. You can review the Canadian listing in the Health Canada Drug Product Database: Retin-A Micro. US prescribing information is available in the FDA Label: Retin-A Micro Gel.

Order from YouDrugstore with confidence. Our team supports your prescription and ships from Canada with prompt, express, cold-chain shipping options.

This page does not replace medical advice. Always follow your prescriber’s instructions and the product insert. Report unexpected reactions to a healthcare professional.