| Cover | Aug. 12, 2021 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Aug. 12, 2021 |
| Entity Registrant Name | Novan, Inc. |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 001-37880 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 20-4427682 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 4020 Stirrup Creek Drive, Suite 110 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Durham |
| Entity Address, State or Province | NC |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 27703 |
| City Area Code | 919 |
| Local Phone Number | 485-8080 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock, $0.0001 par value |
| Trading Symbol | NOVN |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | true |
| Entity Ex Transition Period | true |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001467154 |
