How to Get Prescription Retinol

Having healthy-looking skin can improve your outlook and give you a boost of self-confidence every time you look in the mirror. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, aging skin can be caused by several factors, including genetics, hormones, acne, environment, and damage from UV light. Skin aging can manifest in the form of color or texture changes, loss of moisture, wrinkles, loss of facial fat, or skin sagging.

When it comes to aging skin, one of the mainstays of treatment recommended by dermatologists is a topical retinoid, also known as retinol.

Here is what to know about how to get prescription retinol and how to save money using a prescription drug coupon from RxSaver.

What is retinol?

A topical retinoid, or retinol, is a compound derived from Vitamin A. Retinol can be found as a component of many topical skin formulations that are available over-the-counter. It can also be derived from the diet, by eating foods high in beta-carotene (such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and spinach), which is a precursor to Vitamin A. However, a prescription-grade retinoid is often the go-to recommendation when it comes to combating skin aging and preserving the health of your skin.

What is prescription retinol?

Various branded versions of prescription retinol are available, but the generic form is known as Tretinoin. [Tretinoin][1] can be applied to the skin as frequently as once daily. Many dermatologists recommend applying the medication at night, before bed, as exposure to UV light while wearing the medication can increase skin irritation.

The [cost of tretinoin without insurance][2] starts at $32.03 for 1 tube 00.05%, using an RxSaver coupon.

The cost of tretinoin can vary in price depending on where you fill your prescription. Below is a list of pharmacies and the starting cost of a tretinoin prescription using an RxSaver coupon.

Medication Pharmacy Lowest Price for Common Dosages
[Tretinoin][3] Walgreens $44.38
[Tretinoin][4] Rite Aid $43.06
[Tretinoin][5] Walmart $43.06
[Tretinoin][6] CVS $37.35
[Tretinoin][7] Costco $46.09
## How to Get Prescription Retinol Without Insurance
Ask About Generic Options

Generic medications are just as effective as their brand counterparts and are often much cheaper. Chat with your health care provider to see if you can switch to generic tretinoin if you are prescribed a brand drug.

Check Pharmacy Prices

It’s not common knowledge that the cost of tretinoin can vary by pharmacy. Always make sure to check pharmacy prices in your area, using [RxSaver][8] to help determine which pharmacy offers the best price.

Use RxSaver

RxSaver is a prescription savings program that offers discounted tretinoin prices at major pharmacies. You can search for coupons through RxSaver’s website or [free app][9] to find coupons on prescription medications.

How does tretinoin help with aging skin?

Tretinoin has been studied in the treatment of skin aging since the 1980s. Topical retinoids, such as tretinoin, can improve the look and feel of your skin by decreasing the breakdown of collagen. Collagen is a protein that affects the hydration, laxity, and suppleness of your skin.

We experience a natural loss of collagen production as we age, a phenomenon that topical retinoids work to counteract. Some [studies][10] have shown that, in addition to reversing the loss of collagen, tretinoin can actually increase collagen production and the formation of new blood vessels in the skin, enhancing its vibrancy.

What are the side effects associated with retinol?

Some side effects of topical retinoids, such as tretinoin, include:

- Burning

- Stinging

- Tingling

- Redness

- Excessive dryness

- Peeling of the skin

If you are experiencing these side effects, reduce the frequency with which you are applying the medication. Excessive irritation of the skin can [actually increase skin aging][11], according to the American Academy of Dermatology. So make sure to let your symptoms be your guide and modify your use if the product is causing discomfort.

Retinol is also contraindicated in women who are pregnant or trying to get pregnant, as it has been associated with birth defects.

How to Get Prescription Retinol

If you have concerns about aging skin or would like to take proactive measures to avoid the development of wrinkles or skin discoloration, it’s time to take action.

Talk to Your Dermatologist

Share your concerns about your skin with your dermatologist. Retinol may be a good treatment, but other treatments may be better suited for your unique skin.

[1]: https://www.rxsaver.com/drugs/tretinoin/coupons

[2]: https://www.rxsaver.com/drugs/tretinoin/coupons

[3]: https://www.rxsaver.com/drugs/tretinoin/coupons

[4]: https://www.rxsaver.com/drugs/tretinoin/coupons

[5]: https://www.rxsaver.com/drugs/tretinoin/coupons

[6]: https://www.rxsaver.com/drugs/tretinoin/coupons

[7]: https://www.rxsaver.com/drugs/tretinoin/coupons

[8]: https://www.rxsaver.com/

[9]: https://www.rxsaver.com/pharmacy-apps/

[10]: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3771853/

[11]: https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/anti-aging/maximize-anti-aging-products

Medication	Pharmacy	Lowest Price for Common Dosages
[Tretinoin][3]	Walgreens	$44.38
[Tretinoin][4]	Rite Aid	$43.06
[Tretinoin][5]	Walmart	$43.06
[Tretinoin][6]	CVS	$37.35
[Tretinoin][7]	Costco	$46.09

Ask for A Prescription

If your dermatologist recommends retinol or another retinoid, request a prescription. Then, use RxSaver to look for the pharmacy with the best pricing and have your prescription filled at that location. This may help you save up to 80% on the medication.

Bring Your RxSaver Coupon to the Pharmacy

When you give your pharmacist your prescription, or when you pick up the filled prescription, just show the pharmacist your coupon on your phone to get discounted pricing.

*Lowest online price at national pharmacy chains Costco, CVS, RiteAid, Walgreens and Walmart as of 3/8/2021. Prices vary by location and pharmacy, see RxSaver.com for actual pricing in your area.