Renova took off where Retin A left off - except that Renova is less harsh. As a teen i used Retin A and it causes a lot of dryness, flaking and peeling. I now use Renova and it really does clear your face up (lines as well as pimples) - just use it every other day in summer and less often in winter with lots of moisurizer. If you're going someone special don't use it for a few days so your skin doesn't look so dry and scaly.

You don't necessarily need a prescription - just go to a dermatologists office, they often have a line of products including Renova (and half the price of pharmacies)