Ingredient profile

Retinoid (prescription) · best used PM

• Tazarotene sits happily next to hyaluronic acid.

1

Mixes freely1

Needs timing0

Needs care0

Not together0

What it does

Tazarotene is a prescription retinoid that binds selectively to certain retinoic acid receptors. It is used for acne, plaque psoriasis and sun-damaged skin, and it is generally considered one of the most potent topical retinoids.^[1]

Strengths

• Randomized trials support tazarotene for fine wrinkles, mottled pigmentation and other signs of photodamage.^[1]
• It is approved for acne and for plaque psoriasis.^[2]
• Once-daily evening use keeps the routine simple.^[2]
• Tazorac cream and gel come in 0.05% and 0.1% strengths.^[2][3]
• Fabior is a 0.1% foam labeled for acne in people 12 and older.^[4]
• Arazlo is a 0.045% lotion, a lower strength labeled for acne from age 9.^[5]
• Duobrii pairs 0.045% tazarotene with 0.01% halobetasol, a corticosteroid, in one lotion for plaque psoriasis in adults.^[6]
• Because it is a drug rather than a cosmetic, you get it through a doctor, dermatologist or nurse practitioner and fill it at a pharmacy; no over-the-counter skincare product contains it, which is why this page lists no product picks.^[2]
• It is a prodrug: skin converts it into tazarotenic acid, which acts mainly on the RAR-beta and RAR-gamma retinoid receptors.^[6]

Who it suits

People with acne, psoriasis or significant sun damage who are under the care of a prescriber and can tolerate a strong retinoid.

Who should skip

Pregnancy: the label contraindicates it, recommends a negative pregnancy test within two weeks before starting, and asks for effective contraception. Also avoid on eczema, sunburn or broken skin.^[2]

How to start

Apply a thin film once a day in the evening to clean, dry skin. Dryness, peeling, redness and burning are the most common side effects, especially in the first month.

The label says moisturizers may be used as often as desired; for psoriasis it says to apply emollients at least an hour before tazarotene and to keep it on the plaques. If irritation becomes uncomfortable, the label allows applying it less often or pausing until skin settles.

Hydrators such as hyaluronic acid and plain moisturizers fit well. Avoid stacking exfoliating acids, scrubs or other retinoids unless your prescriber plans it.

Use broad-spectrum sunscreen every day and avoid sunburn. Common questions: Is tazarotene stronger than tretinoin?

It is usually considered at least as strong and often more irritating. How long until it works?

Acne often improves in weeks; sun damage takes months. Can I use it in pregnancy?

No.

Pairing grid

Sources