Renova is a skin-care product with the active ingredient tretinoin, a topical retinoid that promotes skin renewal. Physicians prescribe Renova to minimize the appearance of fine wrinkles and skin discoloration, and to smoothen the texture of skin. Although tretinoin is commonly prescribed under the brand Retin-A to treat acne, Renova may not work against acne for many people.
Renova and Retin-A
Retinoids such as tretinoin are forms of vitamin A commonly used to treat acne. Retin-A and Renova both contain tretinoin, but Renova has a moisturizing cream base. People who develop skin irritation from the drying effects of Retin-A may choose to try Renova, but the product can actually cause flare-ups or worsen acne in some people, as explained by DermaDoctor.com.
Tretinoin and Acne
Acne typically results from overactive oil glands preventing dead skin cells from sloughing away. These cells clog pores, leading to growth of anaerobic bacteria that cause acne. Tretinoin increases the rate that new skin cells develop and promotes peeling, which helps dead skin cells to shed from the skin surface and stop clogging pores. This makes tretinoin beneficial for treating mild to moderate acne.
Tretinoin and Other Skin Care
The exfoliating qualities of tretinoin also can help temporarily reduce blotchy skin discoloration and the effects of sun damage. Additionally, tretinoin may help the development of collagen fibers within the skin, according to DermaDoctor.com, making it beneficial for decreasing the appearance of fine lines. Renova is typically intended as part of a comprehensive skin-care program, including the avoidance of ultraviolet light, rather than as an acne therapy.
Renova Application
If your doctor agrees to write you a prescription for Renova for acne, you may want to smooth a thin layer of the cream onto affected areas only. Directions recommend applying Renova at bedtime daily or once every two or three days. Using more Renova or applying it more often does not increase its effectiveness and may cause skin irritation. You shouldn't put Renova on wet skin, as that also may cause skin irritation.
Side Effects
Renova, like Retin-A, can cause skin irritation in some individuals. This may include redness, dry and scaly skin, and stinging or burning sensations. These effects can be aggravated by windy or cold weather. You shouldn't apply Renova to skin that is sunburned or windburned, dry or chapped or otherwise irritated. Any products that can cause skin irritation can aggravate Renova's side effects. These include harsh soaps or shampoos, hair dye, permanent wave products, hair removal products and any skin-care items containing alcohol or astringent substances.
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