Retinoids refer to drugs derived from vitamin A. There can be classified into topical and oral retinoids.

Topical retinoids

• Tretinoin cream and lotions - used for treating acne vulgaris (pimples) or photoageing.
• Adapolene gel - used for treating acne vulgaris.
  
  Precautions to observe when using topical retinoids
• Use at night because retinoids increase the sensitivity to sunburn. Use more frequently only is instructed by your doctor. Adopolene does not seem to increase the sensitivity to the sun.
• Apply to dry skin. Wait at least 30 minutes after washing.
• Avoid the eyes and mouth.
• Use sunscreens during the day.
• Irritation may occur and acne may get worse during the first 6 weeks of treatment with tretinoin (less common with adapolene) but the skin usually gets used to it. You may use moisturisers if the skin is very dry but choose an oil-free or non-comedogenic one if you have oily skin or acne vulgaris.
• Use mild cleansers and avoid abrasive scrubs.
• Do not use during pregnancy.
• Seek you doctor's advice if you are uncertain about anything.

  Oral retinoids

• Isotretinoin (Roaccutane or Accutaine) - a very effective medication for nodular of cystic acne vulgaris.
• Acitretin (Neo-Tigason) - used for treating disorders of keratinisation such as psoriasis, Darier's disease, pityriasis rubra pilaris, etc.

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