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Retin-A vs. BenzeFoam

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

Retin-A

(tretinoin)

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benzoyl peroxide

 

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Summary for Retin-A

Prescription only

Retin-A (tretinoin) is a retinoid medication that's used to treat acne in adults and children 12 years and older. It's available as a cream or a gel that's applied onto the skin once a day. Side effects include skin irritation, redness, and peeling. Your acne might get worse at the beginning of treatment, but it should get better as you continue using the medication. You must have a prescription for Retin-A (tretinoin) from your primary care provider or dermatologist; this medication isn't available over the counter.

Indications for Retin-A

  • Acne

Pros and Cons for Retin-A

Pros

  • Easy to apply onto your skin
  • Only need to apply once nightly
  • Available in a lower-cost generic form

Cons

  • Makes your skin more sensitive to sunlight, which can lead to sunburns
  • Can cause your skin color to temporarily become lighter or darker
  • Might worsen your acne during the first few weeks of treatment

Common Side Effects for Retin-A

  • Skin peeling or discomfort
  • Warm feeling or stinging after applying
  • Skin redness
  • Sensitivity to sunlight (sunburns)
  • Worsening of acne in the first few weeks of treatment

Warnings for Retin-A

  • Sunburns
  • Skin irritation in extreme weather
  • Skin reactions

Summary for BenzeFoam

Prescription or over-the-counter

Benzoyl peroxide is an affordable medication that works well to clear up acne. It's available over-the-counter and comes in many different forms, but it's not a good option for people with sensitive skin.

Indications for BenzeFoam

  • Acne

Pros and Cons for BenzeFoam

Pros

  • Lower-cost and available over-the-counter
  • Comes in many different forms (e.g., gel, cream, and lotion) and strengths
  • Easy to apply
  • Can be used by people with either dry or oily skin

Cons

  • Makes your skin more sensitive to sunlight
  • Can bleach your hair, clothing, and bedding
  • Might not work well for people with severe acne
  • Can cause uncomfortable side effects, like skin burning and itching
  • Not a good option for people with sensitive skin

Common Side Effects for BenzeFoam

  • Redness
  • Burning
  • Itching
  • Peeling
  • Swelling
  • Dryness

Warnings for BenzeFoam

  • Bleaching of hair and clothing
  • Skin irritation
  • Sensitive skin

Prices with our coupons for Retin-A vs. BenzeFoam

Price Card Drug Icon
Tretinoin1 tube / 45g of 0.025%
$48.29$94.97
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Price Card Drug Icon
Benzoyl Peroxide1 bottle / 148g of 5%
$16.18-
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