Renova is a prescription skin cream that helps to reduce the appearance of fine wrinkles, skin pigmentation, brown sunspots and surface roughness caused by sun damage and aging. This dermatology cream contains the potent ingredient tretinoin, a derivative of vitamin A. Tretinoin-based creams were initially prescribed for acne as they helped to speed up skin exfoliation and unclog pores. The active ingredients in Renova are known skin irritants, and side effects such as dryness, itching and flaking will occur before the desired results are seen.
Common Side Effects
Common side effects include skin dryness, redness, itching, flaking, peeling and tightness. These skin reactions are temporary and, in most cases, will disappear a few weeks after beginning treatment. However, Drugs.com advises that Renova is not recommended for longer than 48 weeks of continuous use.
Sun Sensitivity
The active ingredient in Renova also causes the skin to have increased sensitivity to the sun. Patients using Renova should avoid sun exposure as well as artificial UV ray sunlamps and tanning beds because the skin may burn and become damaged easily. An SPF 15 or above sunscreen should be used on the area, and protective clothing and a hat should be worn when going outdoors. To avoid the risks of increased sun sensitivity, RxList.com advises that Renova should not be used if the patient is taking medications that increase sensitivity to light, such as certain antibiotics, sulfa drugs, tranquilizers and thiazide medicines.
Rare Side Effects
Adverse side effects such as burning and stinging may occur in some patients. In most cases, this occurs when Renova is used along with other medications or skin creams containing active ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. Adverse reactions may also occur if a tretinoin skin cream is used on sunburned, chapped, irritated or broken skin. Patients with very sensitive skin or severe acne may not be able to tolerate Renova. In rare cases, adverse effects such as temporarily darkened or lightened marks on the skin have occurred in patients with darker skin tones. Renova safety has not been tested on individuals with heavily pigmented skin tones, and should be used sparingly or avoided by these individuals.
Risks During Pregnancy
According to the Food and Drug Administration, it is not known whether tretinoin is harmful to a developing baby during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Tretinoin can pass into the bloodstream and the breast milk; it is safer to avoid Renova before, during and shortly after pregnancy.
