Can Tretinoin or Retin-A Correct Nasolabial Fold Lines?

Tretinoin can improve very fine surface wrinkles, pigmentation and sun damage but cannot correct nasolabial folds.  For that you need a dermal filler like Perlane, Juvederm Ultra Plus, Radiesse or Sculptra. 

Retin A is a great topical treatment to minimize the signs of sun damage on the face (photo aging) but it does not correct or minimize nasolabial folds. Nasolabial fold should be treated with fillers such as Juvederm or Restylane.

Although the retinoids are quite good over the long-term in improving fine lines and wrinkles, they will not be effective for deep wrinkles such as nasolabial folds or dynamic wrinkles.  It is best to think of the retinoids as one part of a complete aesthetic solution. 

Application of Retin-A (tretinoin) will cause reduction of fine wrinkles, mottled hyperpigmentation, and roughness in the skin. Tretinoin is not effective for deeper folds such as those seen in the nasolabial area. Fillers such as Radiesse are much more effective for the treatment of this area.