Does Applying Moisturizer Along with Tazorac Decrease the Efficacy of the Tazorac?

Question

I have read that in order to decrease any potential irritation while using Tazorac that you should use the medication in conjunction with a moisturizer. Isn't using a moisturizer underneath effectively just diluting the potency of the Taz?

Melissa Chiang, MD, FAAD · Answer

Studies have shown that applying cerave cream prior to tazorac reduces irritation, but does not reduce effectiveness.

Dina D. Strachan, MD · Answer

Not only has it been shown in studies that using a moisturizer with topical retinods, such as Tazorac, does not reduce efficacy but moisturizer may in fact help acne get better. It has been shown that people with acne have reduced ceramides in their skin. Ceramide is a type of skin lipid that is naturally found in a healthy skin barrier. When ceramide is reduced, water is lost from the skin and there is an increased risk of inflammation. So definately use a moisterizer if you are using acne medication. Using one with ceramides should be even better. It does not matter if you put the moisterizer or the medication on first.

Gary Goldenberg, MD · Answer

Tazorac, as well as other retinoids can be used with a moisturizer. Retinoids tend to dry out the skin. This makes it hard to tolerate these agents. Adding a non-comedogenic moisturizer after the retinoids have a chance to dry is a great way to use both products. Add SPF50 sunscreen too.

F. Victor Rueckl, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

Retinoids and Retin-A products should be applied to dry skin. I don't recommend people apply them over moisturizers, instead I have people use them every other night, or every 3 nights instead. So they can get the full effects of the medication, without the irritation. Applying it over moisturizer makes it more tolerable for your skin and reduces redness and irritation, but yes, it does affect the potency.

Does Applying Moisturizer Along with Tazorac Decrease the Efficacy of the Tazorac?

Answers (4)

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