How Do You Properly Use Tazorac Cream?

Hello, What is the best way to use Tazorac cream (0.05%) to take full advantage of all the skin benefits? How often? How much? Before/After moisturizer? etc... what about the 'short contact' method? Thanks so much!

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Tazorac protocol

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4 Doctor Answers | Asked by Logan in Canada in Halifax, NS

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Tazorac for acne

Tazorac is a topical retinoid and a nice treatment option for acne. Because it is very strong, I suggest using it as short contact therapy starting at 3 minutes each night for 1 month, then 10minutes for 1 month, then 1 hour for 1 month, then trying it on overnight. If your skin gets too dry or irritated, you can apply a moisturizer 10minutes after applying the tazorac, or take breaks from the tazorac.

Benjamin Barankin, MD

10 reviews

Toronto Dermatologic Surgeon

Proper use of Tazorac for acne

Tazorac is an excellent topical retionid for any (and anti-wrinkle side effects) but it, like other retinoids, can be drying. To get best results use just a green pea-sized amount on the whole face at bedtime only. Moisturize twice daily. It does not matter if you put the moisturizer on over or under the Tazorac. Use a gentle, moisturizing cleanser and avoid scrubs. Don't forget to use sunscreen in your morning moisturizer.

Use Tazorac cream or other vitamin A creams nightly for best results

We start patients out every other night for the first two weeks, and if they are having dryness or irritation, they can add a moisturizer on top of it. The short contact method was previously done with Tazorac Gel, which can be more irritating, and is likely not necessary when you are using the cream. Most results take about 4-5 months to get clearance of acne and improvement of sun damage. Best to you.

Tazorac Treatment Protocol

Tazorac is a topical retinoid that is incorporated into some acne regimens. Many patients are not able to tolerate Tazorac as it is considered to be the most irritating of the topical retinoids, however it can be very efficacious for some patients. Additionally, it is pregnancy category X so should never be used during pregnancy or when attempting to conceive. In the patients I prescribe Tazorac, I have them apply a small amount to their entire face prior to bed time after... more