Tazorac (tazarotene) is a brand-name topical medication that’s prescribed to treat acne and plaque psoriasis. As with other drugs, Tazorac can cause side effects, such as skin irritation, dryness, and itching.

Tazorac can cause certain side effects, some of which are more common than others. These side effects may be temporary, lasting a few days to weeks. However, if the side effects last longer than that, bother you, or become severe, be sure to talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

These are just a few of the more common side effects reported by people who took Tazorac cream and Tazorac gel in clinical trials:

  • itching
  • redness or discoloration
  • burning or stinging
  • dry skin*

* For more information about this side effect, see “Side effect specifics” below.

Mild side effects can occur with Tazorac use. This list doesn’t include all possible mild side effects of the drug. For more information, you can refer to Tazorac’s prescribing information for Tazorac cream and Tazorac gel. These side effects can vary depending on which condition the drug is being used to treat.

Mild side effects that have been reported in people taking Tazorac for plaque psoriasis include:

  • itching
  • skin irritation
  • worsening of psoriasis
  • burning or stinging

Mild side effects that have been reported in people taking Tazorac for acne include:

  • redness or discoloration
  • itching
  • burning
  • skin peeling
  • dry skin*

These side effects may be temporary, lasting a few days to weeks. However, if the side effects last longer than that, bother you, or become severe, be sure to talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

Note: After the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves a drug, it tracks and reviews the side effects of the medication. If you develop a side effect while taking Tazorac and want to tell the FDA about it, visit MedWatch.

* For more information about this side effect, see “Side effect specifics” below.

Tazorac may cause serious side effects. The list below may not include all possible serious side effects of the drug. For more information, you can refer to Tazorac’s prescribing information for Tazorac cream and Tazorac gel.

If you develop serious side effects while taking Tazorac, call your doctor right away. If the side effects seem life threatening or you think you’re having a medical emergency, immediately call 911 or your local emergency number.

Serious side effects that have been reported and their symptoms include:

  • severe skin irritation, which may include symptoms such as:
    • burning
    • skin redness or discoloration
    • itching
    • peeling
  • sun sensitivity and increased risk for sunburn.*

* For more information about this side effect, see “Side effect specifics” below.

ALLERGIC REACTION

For some people, Tazorac can cause an allergic reaction.

In general, symptoms of allergic reaction can be mild or serious. You can learn more about possible symptoms in this article.

Ways to manage

For mild allergic reaction symptoms, such as a mild rash, call your doctor right away. They may recommend treatments to help manage your symptoms. They’ll also let you know whether you should keep taking the medication.

For severe allergic reaction symptoms, such as swelling or trouble breathing, call 911 or your local emergency number right away. These symptoms require immediate medical care because they can become life threatening. If you’ve had a serious allergic reaction to Tazorac, your doctor may recommend taking a different medication instead.

Tazorac may cause several side effects. Here are some frequently asked questions about the drug’s side effects and their answers.

Does Tazorac cause long-term side effects?

It isn’t likely. Long-term side effects weren’t reported in clinical trials of Tazorac. Most of the drug’s side effects are temporary or will go away after you stop treatment. However, the length of time Tazorac’s side effects last will vary from one person to another.

If you have concerns about long-term side effects with Tazorac, talk with your doctor.

Does Tazorac cause hair loss?

No, hair loss wasn’t reported in clinical studies of Tazorac. If you’re experiencing hair loss, talk with your doctor. They can review possible causes, including other drugs you’re taking or certain dietary or lifestyle factors.

Can Tazorac be used to treat wrinkles?

Tazorac is not FDA approved to treat wrinkles. However, some doctors may prescribe Tazorac off-label for this purpose. Off-label use means a drug is FDA approved for one purpose but is prescribed for another purpose.

Tazorac contains the active ingredient tazarotene, which is also available as the brand-name medication Avage. Avage is FDA approved to manage fine wrinkles, sun spots, or certain skin discolorations, known as hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation, on the face.

Tazorac and Avage contain the same active ingredient, and cause the same side effects. This means Avage can also increase your risk of sunburn. Treatment with Avage includes avoiding sun exposure and wearing sunscreen daily.

For more information on Tazorac or Avage, talk with your doctor.

Learn more about some of the side effects that Tazorac may cause. To find out how often side effects occurred in clinical trials, see the prescribing information for Tazorac cream and Tazorac gel.

Dry skin

Dry skin is a common side effect reported in clinical trials of Tazorac gel and cream, especially when used to treat acne. Dry skin is usually temporary and goes away over time. If your skin is dry, moisturizing is an important part of keeping your skin hydrated.

What you can do

Try to use thicker moisturizers on your dry skin several times a day. Using fragrance-free ones may help avoid irritating your skin and making it worse. Hot showers or baths can lead to dry, itchy skin, so it’s a good idea to use warm water to help keep your skin hydrated. Also, remember to drink plenty of water throughout the day.

Talk with your doctor if your dry skin is severe or continues to be a problem. They may suggest using a lower strength product or applying it less frequently.

Sun sensitivity and increased risk for sunburn

While using Tazorac, you may be more sensitive to sunlight, including artificial light such as tanning beds. This was a common side effect reported in clinical studies of the drug. It can increase your risk for sunburn during treatment with Tazorac.

What you can do

It’s important to apply sunscreen every day when using Tazorac. You should also wear protective clothing, including hats and sunglasses when going outside. Try to avoid being in the sun for long periods.

Some medications, including certain diabetes medications or antibiotics, can also make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Taking them while using Tazorac can further increase your risk of sunburn.

If you get a sunburn, you can put a cool, wet towel on your skin to help relieve pain and irritation. Taking an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as ibuprofen (Advil), may also help ease discomfort. It’s important to drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. If your sunburn is on an area of the skin where Tazorac is applied, stop using it until your sunburn is completely gone.

Talk with your doctor if you have concerns about the increased risk of sunburn while using Tazorac. They may recommend additional ways to prevent sunburn.

Before taking Tazorac, discuss your health history with your doctor. Tazorac may not be right for you if you have certain medical conditions or other factors affecting your health. Be sure to talk with your doctor if any of the following apply to you:

Disclaimer: Medical News Today has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.