Here’s Where to Buy RX Retinoids Online Without a Trip to The Dermatologist
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Next time you’re in the company of a dermatologist, pose the ubiquitous desert island question, “If you had to pick one skincare ingredient that actually works, what would it be?” It’s likely that a lot of them would tell you retinoids. Retinoids (including retinol) are one of the most researched-backed tried-and-true actives that derms and estheticians swear by for a slew of different reasons. While there are plenty of mild, over-the-counter retinol products on the market, if you’re looking for answers on how to get Retin-A (tretinoin) online, we’ve got the answers.
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Tretinoin (brand names include Retin-A, Retin-A Micro, and Renova) has an unparalleled history of proven efficacy and is backed by ample clinical research. Tretinoin first came about in the ’70s, and while it was originally formulated to treat acne, patients and dermatologists quickly noticed that the RX formula offered a laundry list of off-label skin-enhancing “side effects,” including softening fine lines, reducing texture, fading spots from sun damage, and shrinking the look of enlarged pores.
“Retinoid” is the all-encompassing umbrella comprised of different types of chemical compounds derived from vitamin A, and each variation provides different strength levels, including retinol, retinaldehyde, and of course tretinoin, to name a select few. However, prescription-strength Tretinoin typically delivers the quickest results, but it does require a prescription from a physician or dermatologist.
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Whether you’re looking to bypass a costly trip to the dermatologist or don’t currently have health insurance that covers dermatology, there is actually a slew of different online (and, yes, completely legal and legit) services that allow you to be assessed by a remote derm online to obtain a script for tretinoin and other prescription skincare products. Yes, you can buy Rx-skincare on second-hand websites, but for the love of god, please don’t resort to this “method” when you can get legit prescriptions from licensed healthcare providers. Scroll through below to check out our favorite online derms to try for yourself.
RELATED: This $12 OTC Treatment Is the Closest Thing You’ll Find to Prescription Retinol
Hers
Not only does this online healthcare service allow you to get prescription medications and birth control online, but it also offers RX-only skincare treatments for acne and anti-aging. For first-time Hers customers, you can get Tretinoin delivered right to your door for just $10 a month — and trust me, that’s a solid deal.
Musely
Prescription skincare products prescribed by the best dermatologists and pharmacists? Count us in! Almost all of Musely‘s formulas contain tretinoin—whether it be an anti-aging cream or an eye serum. It’s easy to see why the telemedicine platform incorporates this ingredient in several of its offerings. Tretinoin accelerates the skin cell turnover process, making it great for those who are dealing with acne, visible signs of aging and more. In addition to tretinoin, the Anti-Aging Night Cream calls on niacinamide and hyaluronic acid to smooth skin and lock in moisture. You can even get this formula in Gentle, Balanced and Veteran iterations. Each one has a different concentration of tretinoin, so you can really figure out how much works for your skin. The night cream starts at $64 for two month’s supply, or pay $84 to get the moisturizer and a one-time doctor visit.
Wisp
Wisp is a sexual and reproductive telehealth provider that recently branched out into skincare. Prescription-strength skincare without having to walk into a doctor’s office? Count us in! Wisp provides easy access to dermatologists to make sure your skin concerns like acne, hyperpigmentation and visible signs of aging are taken care of. One of its offerings, the Wrinkle Firming Cream, contains tretinoin (0.04 percent), azelaic acid (5 percent) and niacinamide (4 percent). Together, these powerful ingredients tackle fine lines and wrinkles, dark spots and acne. Just be sure to apply the product before bedtime only and then follow it up with an SPF 30 sunscreen the morning after.
Curology
You probably already know Curology for its personalized skincare products, but did you know that when you select the custom formula for acne, it can include strong acne-fighting ingredients such as tretinoin, azelaic acid and niacinamide? The best part about Curology is that you get free online access to a dermatology provider, and if you’re not satisfied with the results in the first 90 days, you get your money back.
Nurx
Another online healthcare service that offers RX meds and testing kits without an IRL appointment, Nurx also offers a huge range of prescription-only skincare products for “dermatology at your doorstep,” including Tretinoin, topical antibiotics, and spironolactone. Nurx also works with select insurance companies, but you can also pay out-of-pocket too. And, it’s only $90 for a three-month supply.
Agency
This online dermatology service gives you the full experience of an in-office appointment without the commute or costly co-pays. Agency allows you to get a comprehensive skin evaluation with a licensed healthcare provider (you upload a series of images) and your provider will suggest a customized formula tailored to suit your individual skincare needs and goals.
Apostrophe
Get personalized, prescription-strength skincare within 48 hours thanks to Apostrophe. All of its formulas are created by a board-certified dermatologist and cater to your skin’s needs—whether it’s acne, rosacea or something else. You’ll find custom topical treatments as well as oral medications on the site. The Tretinoin Formula mixes tretinoin with niacinamide to address hyperpigmentation, inflammation, redness, wrinkles, acne, collagen growth and radiance. What can’t this product do? Apostrophe dermatologists pick the strength of tretinoin in your custom formula; it ranges from 0.018 to 0.1 percent. A bottle of the Tretinoin Formula costs $25 a month, including shipping and the prescription.
Dermatica
Dermatica offers prescription-strength skincare formulations based on your personal skincare concerns and offers online assessments from the comfort of your own home. Their hero ingredient, Tretinoin, is offered in a variety of strengths, from 0.025 percent to 0.1 percent, which can be adjusted at any time.
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