Does Tretinoin Help with Acne Scars

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Yes, tretinoin can help improve the appearance of acne scars over time. It’s not an overnight fix, but with consistent use, it works by speeding up cell turnover and stimulating collagen production — two key factors in fading scars and improving skin texture. Tretinoin helps to shed old, damaged skin cells and encourages new, healthy ones to surface, gradually reducing dark spots, post-acne marks, and shallow scars.

While tretinoin works well on post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark marks left behind after pimples), it may be less effective on deep or pitted scars. In such cases, dermatologists often recommend combining tretinoin with treatments like microneedling, chemical peels, or laser therapy for better results. Still, using tretinoin regularly can make your skin smoother, more even-toned, and better prepared to respond to other treatments.

If you're using tretinoin for acne scars, be patient—it can take several weeks to months to see noticeable improvements. Be sure to moisturize, avoid harsh products, and use sunscreen daily, as tretinoin can make your skin more sensitive to the sun.