Tazorac Cream is used to treat acne. It is also used to treat psoriasis. Tazarotene is in a class of medications called retinoids. It works to treat acne and psoriasis by slowing skin cell overgrowth and decreasing skin cell inflammation, which can lead to acne or psoriasis.

Tazorac Cream is for use on the skin only. Apply this medication to the skin as directed by your doctor, usually once daily at bedtime. Wash your hands after applying unless you are treating your hands for psoriasis. Do not apply this medication to skin that is cut, scraped, sunburned, or affected by certain other skin conditions. Avoid getting this medication in your eyes or mouth. If this happens, rinse right away with plenty of cool water.

If using this product to treat psoriasis or acne, apply a thin film to cover only the psoriatic plaques. If a moisturizer is used, apply it at least an hour before applying this medication. If a bath or shower is taken before application, ensure the skin is dry.

You may use a moisturizing cream or lotion on your face before or after you apply this medication. If you are using this product to treat skin aging symptoms due to sun damage, wash and dry your hands before applying the medication, then clean your face with a mild cleanser and pat dry. After the skin is dry, apply a pea-sized amount of this medication to the affected areas on your face as directed by your doctor, usually once daily at bedtime. Ensure that the moisturizer or medication has been absorbed into your skin before applying the second product.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time each day.

Before taking Tazorac Cream, tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• If you are allergic to tazarotene, other medications, or any ingredients in the cream. 
• If you are also using benzoyl peroxide, apply it at a different time than Tazorac,
• If you or anyone in your family has or has ever had skin cancer, eczema or any other skin condition, or if your skin is unusually sensitive to sunlight.
• If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
• Tazorac may harm the fetus. It would be best if you started using Tazorac during your menstrual period to be sure you are not pregnant. Stop using Tazorac and call your doctor immediately if you become pregnant while using it.

All skin or hair care products you use include soaps, shampoos, permanent wave solutions, cleansers, moisturizers, and cosmetics. Many skin care products can irritate your skin if you use them with Tazorac and may make your skin sensitive to sunlight or extreme weather. Especially those that are harsh, dry out the skin or contain alcohol, spices, or lime rind. If you have been using these products, your doctor may want you to wait before Tazorac. Ask your doctor to recommend products that will not irritate your skin.

Do not use hot wax or electrolysis to remove unwanted hair from the area you are treating with Tazorac during your treatment with this medication.

Tazorac Cream may cause serious side effects, including:

• severe skin reaction after applying the medicine,
• blistering or peeling skin,
• severe redness or discomfort, and
• swelling, warmth, oozing, or other signs of skin infection

The most common side effects of Tazorac Cream include the following:

• dry, scaly, or peeling skin,
• skin redness or burning, and
• itching or other irritation of treated skin

Tell the doctor if you have any side effect that bothers you or does not go away.

These are not all the possible side effects of Tazorac Cream. For more information, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Is it safe to apply the moisturizer while on Tazorac Cream? 

You can put moisturizer over Tazorac Cream. Make sure it is completely rubbed and the skin dry before applying moisturizer.

Is Tazorac Cream supposed to burn?

Burning or stinging where you apply Tazorac Cream is a possible side effect, but it shouldn't be extreme. If it becomes excessive or intolerable, let your provider know.

Can Tazorac Cream be used under the eyes?

It's best to avoid applying Tazorac Cream near the eye area. Try not to get any medication in your eyes when applying it to your face.