Is It Okay to Use a AHA Moisturizer While Using Tazorac 0.1% Cream?

Question

Is it okay to use an AHA moisturizer while using Tazorac 0.1% cream? The moisturizer also contains SPF 15 as well, however am worried it could cause too much irritation.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

AHA moisturizers may be a little too drying when on Tazorac or Retin A. In our office, we recommend Elevase Moisture Booster for those patients on Retin A.  Elevase contains Opti-Ceramides. Best, Dr. Karamanoukian Los Angeles

Narin (Joe) Apisarnthanarax, MD · Answer

Everyone's skin tolerance is different.  Some patients can tolerate both Tazorac and AHAs, while some cannot tolerate either alone.  Since both Tazorac and AHAs can cause irritation, I would not start both of them together.  I would recommend beginning with Tazorac for 2-4 weeks before adding an AHA or vice versa.

Channing R. Barnett, MD · Answer

The combination of an AHA moisturizer with Tazorac 0.1% cream can be very irritating, possibly even causing a dermatitis (inflamed skin appearing red and flaky).   That being said, it is possible and safe to use both together so long as your skin can handle them both.  You may need to decrease the frequency of each or use them on alternating days.  You can start with just one and let your skin get used to it, and then slowly introduce the other. Tazorac should always be applied at night as it is photo-sensitizing.  Make sure to hydrate the skin routinely with a good moisturizer (with an SPF during the day!).  Hope this helps!

Is It Okay to Use a AHA Moisturizer While Using Tazorac 0.1% Cream?

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Is It Okay to Use a AHA Moisturizer While Using Tazorac 0.1% Cream?

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Everything you need to know about Tazorac

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.