Retin-A (Tretinoin) Retin-A (Tretinoin) Cream 0.05% Versus Curology Custom Formula (Tretinoin 0.04% Clindamycin phosphate 1% Azelaic acid 7%)
Updated on January 15, 2024
Overview
What they are
These products are both reef safe prescription. They have a total of 2 ingredients in common
Cool Features
They both contain retinoid
Suited For
They're both likely to be good for fighting acne, anti aging, brightening skin, reducing pores, scar healing, dark spots and better texture
Free From
They both do not contain any harsh alcohols, common allergens, oils, parabens, silicones or sulfates
We independently verify ingredients, and our claims are backed by peer-reviewed research. Spot a product that needs an update? Let us know.
Ingredient Info
Retin-A (Tretinoin) Retin-A (Tretinoin) Cream 0.05% 9 ingredients
Curology Custom Formula (Tretinoin 0.04% Clindamycin phosphate 1% Azelaic acid 7%) 12 ingredients
About this product
About this product
At a glance
Click on any of the items below to learn more
Retin-A (Tretinoin) Retin-A (Tretinoin) Cream 0.05% 9 ingredients
Curology Custom Formula (Tretinoin 0.04% Clindamycin phosphate 1% Azelaic acid 7%) 12 ingredients
Key Ingredients
Benefits
Concerns
Key Ingredients
Benefits
Concerns
Ingredients Side-by-side
Ingredients Explained
These ingredients are found in both products.
Ingredients higher up in an ingredient list are typically present in a larger amount.
Tretinoin is the best retinoid due to its proven skin benefits. It only available with a prescription in many countries.
All retinoids goes through a conversion line until it can become effective. The final step of conversion is retinoic acid; retinoic acid IS Tretinoin.
This is why tretinoin is so effective; it gets to work immediately on the skin.
Research on tretinoin has found it to be incredibly effective for reducing the signs of aging. It helps improve damage from the sun, even the skin tone, and smooth out wrinkles. It is also an effective acne treatment by reducing and balancing out sebum production in pores.
Tretinoin, like other forms of Vitamin A, increases the turnover cycle of skin cells. This helps the skin create newer and healthier skin cells faster.
It can cause irritation, redness, and dry skin because it is considered a "strong" ingredient. Those with sensitive skin should consult a professional about using tretinoin.
Using retinoids will increase sun-sensitivity in the first few weeks of use. Though studies show retinoids increase your skin's natural SPF with continuous use, it is best to always wear sunscreen and sun-protection.
Read about a form of retinoid you can purchase at the store, retinol.
Learn more about TretinoinWater. It's the most common cosmetic ingredient of all. You'll usually see it at the top of ingredient lists, meaning that it makes up the largest part of the product.
So why is it so popular? Water most often acts as a solvent - this means that it helps dissolve other ingredients into the formulation.
You'll also recognize water as that liquid we all need to stay alive. If you see this, drink a glass of water. Stay hydrated!
Learn more about WaterIngredient Ratings
Here's what our community thinks of the ingredients in these products.
When to use
Retin-A (Tretinoin) Retin-A (Tretinoin) Cream 0.05% 9 ingredients
Curology Custom Formula (Tretinoin 0.04% Clindamycin phosphate 1% Azelaic acid 7%) 12 ingredients
Reviews
Here's what our community thinks
Retin-A (Tretinoin) Retin-A (Tretinoin) Cream 0.05% 9 ingredients
Never gave me the miracle results I've seen all over TikTok but served me well for the 3+ years I was on this.
Been on this for 4 years. It does not perform miracles but it does keep your skin youthful to some extent sans procedures. Worked on reducing inflammation and acne but dried my skin out, even after a full year of consistent use. With this, sunscreen is non-negotiable.
