Retin A, also known as tretinoin is a compound derived from Vitamin A and is a very effective treatment for acne. It is especially beneficial in the treatment of whiteheads and blackheads, which fall under the category of comedonal acne. Retin A can be used for treating mild to fairly severe acne. This medicinal compound is available both as a gel as well as cream. It not only helps in treating acne but it also effectively works to remove discoloration and dark spots caused by acne. Retin A is also sometimes used as an anti ageing compound used by people to remove wrinkles and fine lines. The way it functions is very simple, it increases the cell turnover rates, promotes rapid exfoliation of skin and decreases dead-cell build-up. This effectively leads to removal of comedonal acne. This treatment needs time, sometimes weeks, before any visible results show up. Although its application might seem irritable to the skin, it is no reason for worry and is completely normal. It should be used with care as it has several side effects like skin dryness and peeling.