I was browsing online and found a generic version of tretinoin on TrueMeds. Both list 0.025% tretinoin, but the price gap is massive—₹180 versus ₹75. Is the cheaper one a good alternative? Safe to buy? Any suggestions, please.
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Yes, it's completely safe. Tretinoin is tightly regulated, so if it states 0.025%, it will work. Save your money and go for the generic.
Can I use tretinoin without a prescription?
Yes, it's safe.
Tretinoin is the active ingredient. There are many brand names—Tretin, Supatret, A‑Ret, etc.—but they're all the same drug. It's cheap to manufacture, so a lower‑cost brand isn't less effective; the feel may vary, that's all.
Use it carefully.
Jan Aushadi sells tretinoin for just ₹25.
I wouldn't take any chances with my skin.
I'm on oral tretinoin (isotretinoin) prescribed by a doctor, and trust me, retinoids aren't just a casual beauty product. They're serious drugs. Only use them if a dermatologist has prescribed them.
Please clear my doubts.
Isn't generic tretinoin also a retinoid since it contains tretinoin?
How does a generic differ from a prescribed one in terms of effectiveness when both do the same job?
In my area, the Jan Aushadi centre asks for a prescription even for generic skincare, but I've seen Reddit users say no prescription is needed for Jan Aushadi products. I guess rules vary by city.