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Compare Renova vs. Dovonex

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

Key takeaways

Renova (tretinoin) and calcipotriene (Dovonex) are both topical medications, but they are used for different skin conditions. Renova is a retinoic acid derivative, a form of vitamin A, and is used to lessen fine wrinkles on your face. In contrast, calcipotriene is a vitamin D analog used to treat plaque and scalp psoriasis by slowing down the growth of skin cells. Renova is applied once daily in the evening, while calcipotriene can be applied once or twice daily depending on the form (cream, ointment, foam, or solution). Renova can cause skin irritation and makes your skin more sensitive to sunlight, requiring the use of sunscreen. Calcipotriene also causes skin irritation and shouldn’t be used on the face, but it is generally safe with fewer side effects. Both medications require a prescription and aren’t suitable for use during pregnancy.

  • Renova (tretinoin)
    Calcipotriene
  • Renova (tretinoin)
    Calcipotriene

  • Summary of Renova vs. Dovonex

    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 Vitamin D analogue
    Prescription only

    Calcipotriene is a topical form of vitamin D that helps treat plaque psoriasis. It comes in many different dosage forms, such as a cream, ointment, foam, and solution. Calcipotriene is typically applied to the affected skin once or twice a day, depending on the form you have. Most forms are available as both brand-name and generic versions, except for the cream. The brand name for the calcipotriene cream, Dovonex, isn't available anymore, but there's still a generic version of it. Some side effects include skin irritation, burning, and stinging.

  • Indications of Renova vs. Dovonex

    Indications for
    •Lessen the look of fine face wrinkles
    Indications for
    •Plaque psoriasis - cream, ointment, foam
    •Scalp psoriasis - foam, solution

  • Pros and Cons of Renova vs. Dovonex

    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 Vitamin D analogue
    Pros
    •Usually helps improve your skin condition after 2 weeks of treatment
    •Generally safe to use and has few side effects
    •Available in different formulations (e.g., cream, foam, ointment, solution), depending on your specific needs
    Cons
    •Probably need to use with topical steroids for the greatest benefits
    •Not a cure for plaque psoriasis; only manages symptoms
    •Not all formulations approved for children

  • Common Side Effects of Renova vs. Dovonex

    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
    •Skin irritation
    •Temporary burning, stinging, or tingling feeling on the skin
    •Skin redness
    •Dry skin
    •Rash
    •Itching
    •Worsening psoriasis

  • Warnings of Renova vs. Dovonex

    Common Side Effects for
    •Skin irritation
    •Sunburns
    •Harm to unborn baby
    Common Side Effects for
    •Allergic reaction
    •Higher calcium levels
    •Flammable (foam and solution only)

  • Prices with our coupons for Renova vs. Dovonex

    Learn more about Renova
    Learn more about Calcipotriene

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