What is Tazorac Cream?

Tazorac Cream is a topical medication that belongs to a group of medications called retinoids. It is used to treat plaque psoriasis and acne vulgaris.

Tazorac Cream is a prodrug, which means that it changes to its active form once it is absorbed into the skin cells. The retinoid Tazarotene acid increases skin cell turnover rate so old cells are removed faster to avoid the buildup that causes blocked pores and the raised patches of skin associated with psoriasis.

Tazorac Cream is available in .05% or .1% strength and is prescribed according to the severity of your acne or psoriasis. If you have never used topical retinoid treatments before, your doctor may recommend that you start with the lower strength. Tazorac Cream can help skin look and feel brighter and healthier while reducing the appearance of acne lesions. It also helps reduce the scaly, raised patches of skin that psoriasis produces.

The generic alternative, Tazarotene, is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

Conditions treated by Tazorac Cream

Tazorac Cream and the Tazorac generic, Tazarotene cream, is used to treat plaque psoriasis and acne vulgaris. Tazorac cream uses extend beyond these two skin conditions. It may also be used to treat the symptoms of premature skin aging caused by sun exposure.

Acne is a skin condition that occurs when oil and dead skin cells plug up hair follicles. Clogged follicles can lead to blackheads, pimples, or whiteheads that can be painful and irritating. The most common acne occurs during puberty when hormone levels rise and increase sebum, an oil found in skin glands. Sebum is necessary to protect the skin and to keep it moist. But when there's too much of it, it begins to clog up the pores of your skin as it mixes with dead skin cells, which can feed bacteria.

Psoriasis is another common skin condition that appears to be caused by an over-active immune system that affects skin cell turnover. Usually, as new cells make their way to the surface, old skin cells slough off. But if this cycle doesn't work the way it should, the new cells surface before the old ones go away. This buildup of cells creates red, raised patches of itchy, dry skin. Mild psoriasis can be treated by a topical medication, but more severe plaque psoriasis may require other treatments, such as combining Tazorac Cream with Halobetasol Propionate Ointment (a corticosteroid).

There is no cure for psoriasis or acne, but Tazorac Cream can help people maintain clearer, healthier skin.

What to know before using Tazorac Cream

• Tell your doctor about any conditions you have. Inform your doctor of any medications you take, including non-prescription medication, vitamins, and supplements.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. If you become pregnant while using Tazorac Cream, call your doctor.
• Be patient when applying Tazorac Cream as it can take around one to four weeks before you notice any improvements to your skin.
• Wash your hands before and after using Tazorac Cream.
• Your skin may become more sensitive in extreme weather while using Tazorac Cream and exposure to sunlight may cause you to burn more quickly.
• Avoid waxing, electrolysis, and chemical depilatories for hair removal on the areas you treat with Tazorac.
• If you wish to also use a moisturizing cream or lotion, just be sure they are applied separately and allow the first one to be completely absorbed before applying the next.
• Let your doctor know if you experience any side effects while using Tazorac Cream. Store Tazorac Cream at room temperature away from heat and moisture.

Possible Tazorac Cream side effects

As with all prescription drugs, there are potential side effects of Tazorac Cream.

Some people may experience application site reactions such as:

• Dryness and Peeling
• Stinging
• Burning
• Itching
• Redness
• Rash

Severity of side effects may differ by skin type and the amount of surface area treated.