Tazarotene
Third-generation topical retinoid with strong antiproliferative action. Doctors prescribe it for psoriasis, acne and photoaging.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Clinical data match tretinoin in efficacy for acne and photoaging. Irritation in the first weeks runs strong, so physician supervision stays mandatory.
How to read tiers A–F
- AProven efficacy. Two or more independent RCTs with instrumental endpoints
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- High
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Avoid
- Use with caution
- Sensitive, Dry
About this ingredient
Tazarotene is a third-generation topical retinoid. Selective agonist of RAR-γ and RAR-β receptors. A prescription drug in the US (Tazorac, Avage), with limited availability in Europe. Mechanism. After penetrating the epidermis it hydrolyses to the active form – tazarotenic acid. Regulates keratinocyte proliferation and differentiation with an anti-inflammatory effect. Strong antiproliferative action underpins use in psoriasis. Where applied. Plaque psoriasis, acne, photoaging products. Concentrations 0.025-0.1% as cream or gel. In Spain – Zorac (0.05% and 0.1%) by prescription. Evidence base. FDA approved tazarotene for psoriasis in 1997 and for acne in 1997. RCTs (Lowe 2003, Tanghetti 2010) showed efficacy in acne comparable to tretinoin over 12 weeks; in psoriasis it trails calcipotriol on tolerance but matches on efficacy. The most effective retinoid in hyperkeratotic conditions. Safety. Irritation, peeling, erythema in 30-50% of patients during the first 2-4 weeks – stronger than with adapalene and tretinoin. Photosensitizes – daily SPF 30+ mandatory. Pregnancy and lactation – contraindicated. FDA category X (teratogenic potential). Systemic absorption through skin is higher than with other topical retinoids. Mandatory contraception in reproductive-age women. Contraindicated during lactation. Prescribed for. Plaque psoriasis (especially palms, soles), stubborn papulopustular acne, marked photoaging. Not first-line – due to irritation and teratogenic risk.
Frequently asked questions
Is Tazarotene safe during pregnancy?
Tazarotene is not recommended during pregnancy. Consider an alternative from the same category.
What skin types is Tazarotene for?
Use with caution in: sensitive, dry.
Can Tazarotene irritate the skin?
Yes, Tazarotene has high irritation potential. Start at low concentrations, introduce gradually, and always use SPF during the day.
What is Tazarotene and what does it do in cosmetics?
Third-generation topical retinoid with strong antiproliferative action.
What's the INCI name for Tazarotene?
The INCI name is Tazarotene.
See Tazarotene in a product composition right on the store page
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
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