Tazorac is a prescription medication used to treat certain skin conditions like acne and psoriasis. Before starting treatment, it's important to know how Tazorac works and what you can expect. This topical cream or gel helps clear up skin by encouraging faster turnover of skin cells, which can lead to smoother and clearer skin over time. While it can be effective, it may also cause side effects such as sensitivity to sunlight and irritation at the application site. Understanding these aspects will help you use Tazorac safely and effectively, ensuring you get the best results from your treatment.
Overview of Tazorac
Tazorac contains tazarotene, the active ingradient which can be classified into the retinoid type of drug. Retinoids belong to the family of the vitamin A derivatives and has been in the application for skin disorders such as acne and psoriasis since the earlier decades of the preceding century. Tazorac is particularly formulated to act on specific receptors on the skin cells to encourage these cells to generate more collagen and keratin. This in turn increases the rate of shedding skin cells to the outside and this is very useful in getting rid of existing acne or scaly skin.
Tazorac comes in two forms: a cream and a gel. The cream is used often on dry or sensitive skin, the gel is used often on oily or normal skin types of patients. Both of them should be used at one time in the day, at night, before going to bed.
Target skin conditions
Tazorac is mostly prescribed for acne breakouts and psoriasis, but the dermatologists may prescribe it for wrinkles and sundamage. The way Tazorac works is it helps to prevent the blockage of the pore and reduce inflammation, which means fewer zits. In psoriasis, it is useful to reduce the production of the skin cells that leads to red and scaly formation on the skin. Tazorac is also used to treat different skin diseases but it is also applied to manage skin aging or anti-aging skin treatment.
Benefits of Tazorac
- Effective in treating acne and psoriasis: Numerous studies have shown that Tazorac is effective in reducing the severity of both acne and psoriasis.
- Helps with anti-aging: Tazorac can also be used as an anti-aging treatment. Its ability to increase collagen production can help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, leading to smoother and more youthful-looking skin.
- Can improve overall skin texture: By encouraging faster turnover of skin cells, Tazorac can also help improve the overall texture of your skin, making it look smoother and more even-toned.
- Easy to use once daily: Unlike some other prescription treatments, Tazorac only needs to be applied once a day, making it convenient and easy to incorporate into your skincare routine.
- Can be used in combination with other treatments: Tazorac can be safely combined with other topical or oral medications for maximum effectiveness in treating skin conditions.
Side Effects of Tazorac
Like any medication, Tazorac can cause side effects. Some common ones include:
- Skin irritation: Tazorac may cause redness, burning, peeling, and dryness at the application site. This is usually temporary and can be managed with moisturizers or slowing down usage to every other day.
- Increased sensitivity to sunlight: Tazorac can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it's important to wear sunscreen and protective clothing while using this medication.
- Worsening of acne before improvement: In some cases, Tazorac may initially cause an increase in breakouts before improving overall acne. This is a normal part of the treatment process and should improve over time.
If you experience any severe or persistent side effects while using Tazorac, be sure to consult your doctor.
Precautions and Tips for Using Tazorac
- Avoid using other retinoid products: Using multiple retinoids at the same time can increase your risk of side effects and irritation. It's best to stick to one retinoid product at a time.
- Use sunscreen: Tazorac can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Be sure to use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher whenever you're going outside.
- Be patient: Results from Tazorac may not be immediate, it takes time for the skin cells to turnover and show improvement. Stick with your treatment plan as directed by your doctor, and be patient for results to appear.
- Avoid waxing while using Tazorac: The skin may become more sensitive while using Tazorac, so it's important to avoid any hair removal methods like waxing that can irritate the skin.
How to apply Tazorac?
- Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and pat dry.
- If using the gel, squeeze a pea-sized amount onto your fingertip. If using the cream, apply a thin layer to the affected area.
- Gently spread the medication over the entire affected area, avoiding the eyes, lips, and nostrils.
- Do not rub in too vigorously, as this can cause irritation.
- Wash your hands after applying Tazorac.
- Use only once daily, preferably in the evening before bedtime.
Recommended dosage
The recommended starting dose of Tazorac is typically a pea-sized amount for the entire face. However, your doctor may adjust this depending on your specific skin condition and response to treatment. It's important to follow your doctor's instructions and not use more than prescribed, as this can increase irritation.
What to Expect During Treatment?
Tazorac may cause some initial irritation and worsening of acne before showing improvement. This is a normal part of the treatment process, and you should start to see results within 4-8 weeks of consistent use. Your doctor will monitor your progress and may adjust your dosage or treatment plan as needed.
Conclusion
Tazorac is a highly effective prescription medication for treating acne, psoriasis, and other skin conditions. Its ability to increase skin cell turnover and collagen production can also provide anti-aging benefits. However, it's important to use Tazorac as directed by your doctor and be patient for results to appear. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, be sure to consult your doctor. With proper usage and precautions, Tazorac can help improve the overall health and appearance of your skin. So, consult with your dermatologist today to see if Tazorac is right for you!
