Key takeaways
Tretinoin (Renova) and isotretinoin (Claravis) are both retinoic acid derivatives used for different skin conditions. Tretinoin is a topical cream applied once daily to reduce fine facial wrinkles, while isotretinoin is an oral medication taken twice daily to treat severe nodular acne that hasn't responded to other treatments. Both medications can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight requires sun protection. Additionally, both tretinoin and isotretinoin can cause birth defects. Because of the possibility of severe birth defects with isotretinoin, people taking it to enroll in the iPLEDGE program and use two forms of birth control. Isotretinoin also has more severe potential side effects, including depression, liver damage, and serious skin reactions, whereas tretinoin mainly causes skin-related side effects like redness and peeling. Both medications require a prescription and have generic versions available.
