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
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 what is still circulating — not just what you typed.

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