What Is Tazorac? Uses, Dosage, and What You Need to Know in 2026

Tazorac is a prescription topical medication containing tazarotene — a synthetic, third-generation retinoid derived from vitamin A. It's FDA-approved for three primary skin conditions: plaque psoriasis, acne vulgaris, and photoaged facial skin. Understanding what Tazorac is, how to use it, and what to expect can help you get the most out of treatment.

What Is Tazorac (Tazarotene)?

Tazorac is the brand name for tazarotene, sold in cream and gel formulations. Tazarotene is also available as Fabior (foam), Arazlo (lotion), and Avage (cream for photoaging). Generic tazarotene is available and is bioequivalent to brand Tazorac.

Tazarotene belongs to the class of drugs called retinoids — medications derived from vitamin A that normalize skin cell growth, reduce inflammation, and improve skin texture. Tazarotene is considered one of the most potent topical retinoids available, more potent than tretinoin and significantly stronger than adapalene (Differin).

What Is Tazorac Used For?

Tazorac has three FDA-approved indications:

Plaque psoriasis (0.05% and 0.1% cream and gel): FDA-approved for stable plaque psoriasis involving up to 20% body surface area. Tazarotene slows the excessive skin cell proliferation that causes thick, scaly psoriatic plaques.

Acne vulgaris (0.1% cream and gel): FDA-approved for mild-to-moderate facial acne in patients 12 years and older. Works by unclogging pores, normalizing keratinocyte differentiation, and reducing comedone formation.

Facial photoaging (0.1% cream, sold as Avage): FDA-approved for mitigation of fine facial wrinkles, mottled hyper- and hypopigmentation, and benign facial lentigines (liver spots) as part of a comprehensive skin care program.

Off-label uses include treatment of acne scarring, hyperpigmentation, and other forms of photodamaged skin not covered by the approved indications.

What Formulations and Strengths Does Tazorac Come In?

Tazorac is available in:

Cream 0.05% — lower strength, often starting strength for sensitive skin or first-time retinoid users, approved for psoriasis

Cream 0.1% — standard strength, approved for psoriasis and acne; better tolerated than gel for dry or sensitive skin

Gel 0.05% and 0.1% — preferred for oily or acne-prone skin; gel limited to 20% BSA for psoriasis use; comes in 30g and 100g tubes

How Do You Use Tazorac Correctly?

Correct application technique makes a significant difference in both efficacy and tolerability:

Wash and thoroughly dry the affected area before application. Wait 15–20 minutes after washing — applying to damp skin increases penetration and irritation.

Apply a thin layer (a pea-sized amount covers the face) to affected areas only. Avoid applying to healthy, unaffected skin — it's more susceptible to irritation.

Apply in the evening (once daily). Tazarotene is degraded by UV light and increases photosensitivity, so nighttime application is required.

Avoid eyes, mouth, nostrils, and mucous membranes. If contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.

Wash hands thoroughly after applying.

Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen every morning while using Tazorac. Sun sensitivity is significantly increased.

How Long Does Tazorac Take to Work?

Results timeline varies by condition:

Acne: Initial improvement typically visible at 8–12 weeks; full response at 12–16 weeks. Expect initial purging (temporary worsening) in weeks 2–6.

Psoriasis: Plaque reduction often visible within 4–8 weeks; full response at 12 weeks or beyond

Photoaging: Texture and fine wrinkle improvement visible at 12–24 weeks with consistent use

Key Safety Facts to Know Before Starting Tazorac

Pregnancy: Tazarotene is a known teratogen and is absolutely contraindicated in pregnancy. A negative pregnancy test is required within 2 weeks before starting treatment in women of childbearing potential, and effective contraception must be used throughout treatment.

Photosensitivity: Significantly increases UV sensitivity. Daily sunscreen is non-negotiable. Avoid sunlamps and tanning beds.

Eczema: Do not use tazarotene on eczematous skin — it can cause severe irritation.

Controlled substance status: Tazorac is NOT a controlled substance. Any licensed prescriber can write for it.

For a deeper dive into Tazorac's side effects, see Tazorac Side Effects: What to Expect. To understand how it works at a molecular level, see How Does Tazorac Work?.