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Compare Renova vs. Differin

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Renova (tretinoin) and Differin (adapalene) are both topical retinoids used for skin care, but they have different primary uses and availability. Renova is mainly prescribed to lessen fine wrinkles and improve skin appearance, while Differin is primarily used to treat mild-to-moderate acne. Renova requires a prescription, whereas Differin is available both over-the-counter and by prescription, depending on the strength. Both medications can cause skin irritation, redness, and peelin. Renova isn’t safe for use during pregnancy, and Differin should be used with caution if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Additionally, Renova may take 3 to 4 months to show full effects, while Differin can take up to 12 weeks. Both medications make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so you should use sunscreen and protective clothing while using them.

  • Renova (tretinoin)
    Differin (adapalene)
  • Renova (tretinoin)
    Differin (adapalene)

  • Summary of Renova vs. Differin

    Summary for Retinoic acid derivative
    Prescription only

    Renova is a topical retinoid that contains tretinoin 0.02% cream. Renova (tretinoin) can ease fine facial wrinkles, in addition to the regular use of sunscreen and sun-protective clothing. But it won't help get rid of deep wrinkles or hyperpigmentation from years of sun damage. Renova (tretinoin) is applied to the face once daily in the evening. This medication commonly causes skin irritation and peeling as side effects. Renova is a prescription medication that's brand name only and not available as a generic.

    Summary for Retinoid

    Differin (adapalene) works well for treating mild-to-moderate acne. Differin (adapalene) can cause skin irritation, burning, and itching right after using it, so make sure you have moisturizer with you to help with this side effect. This acne treatment has different strengths and formulations (e.g., cream, gel, lotion). But only the lower strength gel is available over the counter.

  • Indications of Renova vs. Differin

    Indications for
    •Lessen the look of fine face wrinkles
    Indications for
    •Acne

  • Pros and Cons of Renova vs. Differin

    Pros and Const for Retinoic acid derivative
    Pros
    •Applied only once a day
    •Only need a small pearl-sized amount to have an effect
    •Can use with other cosmetics or skincare products (must wait at least 1 hour after applying Renova)
    Cons
    •Doesn't get rid of deep wrinkles, repair sun-damaged skin, reverse skin aging due to sun damage, or make skin younger
    •Can make you sunburn more easily
    •Not a good choice for females who want to become pregnant or are pregnant
    Pros and Const for Retinoid
    Pros
    •A first-choice option for treating acne
    •Only need to apply once a day
    •Safe to use for acne in children 12 and older
    •The 0.1% gel is available without a prescription.
    Cons
    •Can get sunburns more easily
    •Can make skin dry, itchy, and flaky
    •Can take up to 12 weeks to see full effects
    •Skin might look worse before it starts looking better

  • Common Side Effects of Renova vs. Differin

    Common Side Effects for

    Almost all people who used Renova in clinical studies reported one or more of the following:

    •Burning or stinging
    •Peeling
    •Redness
    •Dry skin
    •Itching
    Common Side Effects for
    •Dry skin (up to 45%)
    •Scaling or peeling (up to 44%)
    •Stinging or burning (up to 29%)
    •Skin redness (up to 26%)

  • Warnings of Renova vs. Differin

    Common Side Effects for
    •Skin irritation
    •Sunburns
    •Harm to unborn baby
    Common Side Effects for
    •Allergic reactions
    •Sunburn
    •Skin irritation

  • Prices with our coupons for Renova vs. Differin

    Learn more about Renova
    Learn more about Differin

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