Winona Review (2025): An Honest Look at Their Anti-Aging Products

Posted on | by Natalia

Bottom Line Up Front: Winona is a telehealth platform specializing in prescription-strength anti-aging skincare, including topical retinoids and hormonal support. They excel at providing doctor-prescribed, potent formulas that are more effective than over-the-counter products. However, their model requires an online consultation and comes at a premium price. It is best for individuals seeking medical-grade solutions for wrinkles, acne, and skin texture who want the convenience of direct delivery. Pro Tip: Using a Winona promo code for your first order is highly recommended to offset the initial cost of the consultation and products.

Winona has carved out a unique space in the online skincare market by focusing exclusively on prescription-grade treatments. This review details our experience with their consultation process, product quality, and overall value to help you decide if their medical approach to anti-aging is right for you.

How Winona Works: The Medical Process

Winona operates differently than a standard skincare brand. It is a full-service telehealth experience.

  1. Online Consultation: You complete a detailed health and skin assessment online. This covers your skin concerns, goals, medical history, and current medications.
  2. Doctor’s Review: A licensed healthcare professional reviews your information. They determine the most appropriate prescription treatment for your specific needs.
  3. Product Selection: If approved, you are presented with your customized prescription options. You can review the ingredients and dosage before purchasing.
  4. Delivery & Ongoing Care: Your prescription is compounded and shipped directly to you. You can message your Winona provider with questions and adjust your treatment over time.

What We Liked: The Pros

  • Prescription-Strength Formulas: Access to high-dose Tretinoin (a potent retinoid) and other prescription ingredients that deliver faster and more dramatic results than any OTC product.
  • Medical Oversight: Having a doctor review your skin needs ensures the treatment is safe, appropriate, and effective for your specific concerns.
  • Convenience: The entire process—from consultation to delivery—is handled from home, saving time and multiple doctor’s appointments.
  • All-in-One Formulas: Many Winona creams combine multiple active ingredients (e.g., Tretinoin, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid) into a single step, simplifying your routine.

What to Consider: The Cons

  • Premium Pricing: As a custom prescription service, Winona is significantly more expensive than drugstore brands and even many luxury skincare lines.
  • Initial Consultation Fee: A one-time fee (often around $20-$25) is required for the doctor to review your case and issue a prescription.
  • Potential Side Effects: Prescription retinoids like Tretinoin cause an initial “purge” period of dryness, peeling, and redness as your skin adjusts.
  • Not for Everyone: If you are happy with OTC retinol or have minimal skin concerns, Winona may be more than you need.

Winona Pricing: A Cost Breakdown

Winona’s pricing reflects its status as a medical-grade, customized service. The following infographic breaks down the typical costs and how they compare to building a similar routine with other products.

Diagram

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Note: The Drugstore Routine cost is for effective OTC products (e.g., retinol, vitamin C, moisturizer). The Luxury Skincare cost is for high-end brand equivalents. Winona offers the power of a prescription for a cost often between the two.

Value Verdict: You are paying for medical-grade efficacy and convenience. While the monthly cost is high, you are getting a powerful, doctor-prescribed formula that can replace several other products in your routine.

The Winona User Journey: From Assessment to Results

The process from start to finish is designed for simplicity and medical safety. This timeline outlines what to expect.

Who is Winona For?

Consider Winona if:

  • You have struggled with stubborn wrinkles, acne, or hyperpigmentation that hasn’t responded to over-the-counter products.
  • You want to use the most clinically proven anti-aging ingredient (Tretinoin) but don’t want to visit a dermatologist in person.
  • You value medical guidance and want a treatment plan tailored to your skin’s specific needs.
  • You appreciate the convenience of having prescription products delivered to your home.

You may want to skip Winona if:

  • You are on a very tight budget.
  • Your skin concerns are minimal and you are satisfied with your current routine.
  • You are not prepared to deal with the potential initial “retinization” period (peeling and irritation).
  • You prefer to use entirely natural or non-prescription products.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is Winona legitimate?
A: Yes. Winona is a legitimate telehealth service that employs licensed healthcare professionals to prescribe medications. They use accredited pharmacies to compound and dispense their treatments.

Q: What is the difference between Winona and Curology?
A: Both services offer custom prescription skincare via telehealth. Winona has a stronger focus on anti-aging and hormonal skin changes (particularly for women in perimenopause and menopause), while Curology often markets more to a younger audience for acne.

Q: Can I use my insurance?
A: No. Winona does not accept insurance. All payments are out-of-pocket. This is why finding a Winona discount code is a smart way to reduce the cost of your first order.

Q: What is their return policy?
A: Winona offers a satisfaction guarantee. If you are unhappy with your product, you can contact their support team for a refund within a specified period (e.g., 30 days) on your first order.

Final Verdict

Winona delivers on its promise of providing accessible, prescription-strength anti-aging skincare. The convenience and medical oversight are significant benefits for anyone ready to upgrade their routine to the most effective level.

However, this power and convenience come at a high monthly cost. It is a worthwhile investment for those who have tried everything else or are starting their journey with medical-grade ingredients.

Before you buy: The best way to try Winona is with a promotion. A quick search for a Winona coupon code can often waive the consultation fee and provide a discount on your first month, making it much more affordable to see if their prescription approach is right for you.