Renova is the first topical cream that has been demonstrated to decrease wrinkles, mottled hyper pigmentation, and skin roughness. Renova is also effective against stretch marks, such as those seen on the abdominal wall in women after pregnancy.
Prescribed by U.S. doctors and dispensed by U.S. pharmacists.
Renova (tretinoin emollient cream 0.05%) contains
the same active ingredient as RETIN-A. It is a vitamin A derivative like
the one naturally occurring in your body. But while RETIN-A is formulated
for acne-prone skin, Renova is a rich emollient cream developed specifically
for treating fine lines and wrinkles, brown spots, surface roughness and stretch
marks that develop on the abdominal wall in women after pregnancy.
HOW DOES Renova WORK?
Renova-A works by binding to specific cell receptors of
skin after a topical application. After the cellular receptors have been activated
there is a modification in gene expression, subsequent protein synthesis and cell
growth and differentiation. Thus, the epidermal cell is modified to produce a
greater amount of new mature healthy skin. In clinical studies there is an enhanced
production of collagen in areas of treated skin.
Unlike over-the-counter wrinkle creams that simply exfoliate the
surface layer of skin, Renova is believed to work on all layers of the
skin, including the epidermis, where pigmentary changes occur and even the deeper
portions of the skin where fine wrinkling is thought to begin. Medical research
has shown in published articles that Renova increases collagen. Researchers
believe this is one way that Renova reduces the signs of aging.
HOW EFFECTIVE IS Renova?
In clinical studies looking at the efficacy of Renova 60%
of patients treated for 24 weeks saw at least some decrease in fine facial wrinkling.
The effect on coarse facial wrinkling, mottled hyperpigmentation, skin roughness,
and laxity of the facial skin were less clear since the effect seen on each patient
varied from study to study.
A study in the Archives of Dermatology, May 1996, showed that
Renova cream significantly improved the appearance of early stretch marks.
Renova worked best on stretch marks that were new or enlarging, such as
those that develop during pregnancy.
HOW TO USE THIS MEDICATION:
Renova is for use on the face as directed, usually once
a day at bedtime. Apply a pea-size amount of cream to clean, dry skin on the face
being careful to avoid the eyes, nostrils and mouth. Wash your hands after use.
Do not use this medication more often than prescribed or in larger amounts. It
will not give you faster or better results but will increase the risk of side
effects. Do not use on sunburn or eczema or other serious skin conditions. Effects
of this medication will be gradual with most improvement seen in the first 6 months
of continued therapy. If used for acne the condition may worsen at first, and
then improve.
Renova TIMELINE:
1-2 months: you notice smoother skin and a softer texture to your
skin
3-4 months: freckles and brown spots begin to fade. Fine lines
and wrinkles begin to diminish. A rosier glow to your skin is obtained
6 months: Benefits should be apparent with fewer wrinkles and
smoother and more even toned skin
DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Let us know on your medical history/personal profile of any nonprescription
or prescription medications that you may be taking including isotretinoin, amiodarone,
tetracycline or quinolone antibiotics, sulfa drugs or phenothiazines as they increase
skin sensitivity to the sun. Also let us know if you are using minoxidil and any
skin medication, soaps, cleansers, cosmetics, astringents or any facial products
that may be drying or irritating to the skin (e.g., alcohol-containing facial
products). Benzoyl peroxide should not be applied at the same time as this medication.
SIDE EFFECTS:
You may experience mild redness or stinging, itching, burning,
skin scaling, peeling and dry skin the first several weeks as your body adjusts
to Renova. If any of these effects continue or become severe, discontinue
use.
WARNINGS:
Before taking this medication let us know on your medical history/personal
profile if you have any pre-existing skin disorders or if you have any allergies.
This medication increases your sensitivity to the sun. Limit sun exposure and
avoid sun lamps. Use a sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors. This
medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. It is unknown
if this drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult with your doctor before breast-feeding.
