 [ Symptoms ] how effective is prescription tretinoin 05 on fine wrinkles and patches of rough skin how long does it take [ Disease ] retin a or tretinoin is very effective in reducing fine lines and wrinkles as well as evening out pigment and shrinking pores it is really the only fda approved anti wrinkle anti aging cream that has years of scientific proof that it works it takes several months to see the effects and should be used under the supervision of a board certified dermatologist it can cause dryness peeling and redness and should be used along with a moisturizer i usually recommend cetaphil or olio lusso facial oil to mitigate the dryness one should also apply it very sparingly at night and of course always wear sunblock during the day it should not be used with glycolic acid or other peeling agents be patient see your dermatologist and you will see results