Compound library / Topical / Skincare

Tretinoin (Retin-A)

Prescription-strength retinoid (vitamin A derivative); the most evidence-backed topical for fine lines, texture, and acne — the benchmark other retinoids are compared against.

CategoryTopical / Skincare
Regulatory standingNo approved product cited
Typical routeTopical
Half-lifeN/A — topical, minimal systemic absorption
Common dose rangePea-sized amount, 2-3x/week initially, building to nightly as tolerated (0.025-0.1% strength)
Typical cycle lengthOngoing — visible results typically take 3-6 months

BioHack Track models Tretinoin (Retin-A) at a half-life of 4 hours, so every dose you log is decayed against that curve and the app shows estimated active levels — not just what you typed.

No approved product cited

No FDA-approved product for this compound is cited on this page, and no approved human dose is quoted. Treat the range below as research and community practice rather than a prescribed dose.

Reconstitution

Topical cream/gel; no reconstitution needed.

Storage

Store away from light and heat; degrades with sun exposure.

Cautions

Prescription medication. Causes purging, peeling, and sun sensitivity (daily SPF is mandatory); not for use during pregnancy.

Track Tretinoin (Retin-A) in BioHack Track. Half-life, dose range and route come pre-filled from this library — log a dose and the app counts your vial down, models what is in your system, and puts it on the same chart as your labs and body composition.

Others in Topical / Skincare

Look up the research

These open a search of each database for Tretinoin (Retin-A) — they are not citations, and nothing here is evidence for any particular dose. The same links are in the app.

Work it out

Where these figures come from

The half-life, route and dose range on this page are compiled from published pharmacokinetic literature, manufacturer and product monographs where one exists, and the ranges commonly reported in clinical and research use. They are kept as a range rather than a single figure because that is what the sources actually support — a half-life varies with route, formulation and the person.

These are not citations, and this page is not a review of the evidence. Where a number matters to you, follow the database links above and read the source. We say so plainly rather than dressing a compiled reference up as one.

Nothing on this page has been reviewed by a named clinician. It is a reference for people already tracking a protocol, not a recommendation to start one.

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