Mechanism of action
Retinoids bind nuclear retinoic acid receptors and modulate transcription of genes controlling keratinocyte differentiation.
This normalizes shedding inside the follicle, addressing the upstream comedone step in acne.
Some retinoids also reduce inflammation and modulate sebaceous activity.
Notes
- Includes adapalene, tretinoin, tazarotene, and trifarotene at varying potencies.
- Often anchor agents in mechanism-driven acne care discussions.