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Compare Renova vs. Tazorac

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

Key takeaways

Renova (Tretinoin) and tazarotene (Tazorac) are both topical medications used for skin conditions, but they have different primary uses and some distinct characteristics. Renova is mainly used to lessen fine wrinkles on your face and is a retinoic acid derivative, a form of vitamin A. On the other hand, tazarotene is a retinoid used primarily to treat acne and plaque psoriasis. Both medications can cause skin irritation and make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, requiring the use of sunscreen and protective clothing. While several forms of tretinoin are available as generics, Renova (which is 0.02% tretinoin) is only available as a brand name cream. Cream and gel forms of tazarotene have generic options but foam and lotion forms don’t and might be more expensive. Additionally, tazarotene has a unique risk with its foam formulation being flammable, which is not a concern with Renova. Neither medication is safe to use during pregnancy due to potential harm to the unborn baby.

  • Renova (tretinoin)
    Tazarotene (Tazorac)
  • Renova (tretinoin)
    Tazarotene (Tazorac)

  • Summary of Renova vs. Tazorac

    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
    Prescription only

    Tazarotene (Tazorac) is a topical retinoid that's used for treating acne and plaque psoriasis. It helps exfoliate the skin and lessen skin inflammation. Tazarotene (Tazorac) is available as a cream and a gel that's applied directly to the affected areas of skin once per day. Adults can use either the cream or gel. Certain children can also use this medication depending on how old they are, whether they have acne or psoriasis, and whether they're using the cream or gel. Side effects include skin irritation and itching. It can also raise your risk for sunburns.

  • Indications of Renova vs. Tazorac

    Indications for
    •Lessen the look of fine face wrinkles
    Indications for
    •Acne - 0.1% strength only
    •Plaque psoriasis - 0.05% and 1% strengths

  • Pros and Cons of Renova vs. Tazorac

    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
    •Works well for treating acne and plaque psoriasis
    •Used once per day
    •Available as a gel and cream
    Cons
    •Can take a few months to see significant skin improvement
    •Can make your skin more irritated or more likely to burn
    •Not safe to use while pregnant

  • Common Side Effects of Renova vs. Tazorac

    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
    •Skin peeling or flaking
    •Itching
    •Skin redness
    •Burning or stinging feeling on the skin

  • Warnings of Renova vs. Tazorac

    Common Side Effects for
    •Skin irritation
    •Sunburns
    •Harm to unborn baby
    Common Side Effects for
    •Harm to unborn baby
    •Risk for sunburn
    •Skin irritation

  • Prices with our coupons for Renova vs. Tazorac

    Learn more about Renova
    Learn more about Tazarotene

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