Table 3.

Topical retinoids used in acne

Drug	Effectiveness	Evidence	Side effects
Tretinoin	Reduces non-inflammatory and inflammatory lesions	1 systematic review12	Local irritation, erythema, dryness, soreness, peeling, burning, and pruritis. Avoid in severe acne that affects large areas, broken or peeling skin, and mucous membranes. Avoid ultraviolet light exposure. Possibly teratogenic
Isotretinoin	Reduces non-inflammatory and inflammatory lesions	1 systematic review12	As above
Adapalene	Reduces non-inflammatory and inflammatory lesions	1 randomised controlled trialw21	As above