Tazorac is causing my skin to peel - Can I do anything to help the exfoliating process along?

Question

Using Tazorac cream nightly, small pea sized amt applied to entire face right after Using a gentle cleanser. In my 30's w/acne and some lines. Three weeks in I'm getting a lot of peeling, but otherwise tolerating it well (no redness, irritation). Anything I can do to hurry along the exfoliation-using a washcloth gently or clay mask? Cut back on the amount or frequency with which I use it? Or just ride it out? I use sunscreen in the am but no moisturizer at night because my skin is fairly oily.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Tazorac can dry out the sebum and make your skin peel. In our clinic, we advise patients to use the Elevase Moisture Booster ceramide cream to help alleviate the dryness and moisturize the skin. Best, Dr. Karamanoukian Los Angeles

Ted Brezel, MD · Answer

There are a number of measures you can take.  You can first of all make sure you are using the product sparingly.  You can also try a light facial moisturizer, make sure you are suing a gentle facial cleanser,  using alternate day therapy with Tazorac or even what we call short contact therarpy (applying Tazorac in the evening and then washing it off after an hour).

Davin Lim, MBBS, FACD - Account Suspended · Answer

I ask my patients to mix a bit of Tazorac and moisturiser. Moisturising your face 30 min before application can also help. Most cases of skin peeling occur 48-72 hours after application- delayed peel. This is when you increase your moisturiser use. I personally use this twice a week as part of my skin care regime. All the bestDr Davin Lim Laser DermatologistBRISBANE, Australia

Tazorac is causing my skin to peel - Can I do anything to help the exfoliating process along?

Answers (3)