TAZORAC is a retinoid, which is a type of prescription drug you spread on your skin. Because it is in fact prescription only that means you can’t just grab it off a shelf at the store. In order to obtain the product you have to see a doctor and get a prescription, take it to a drugstore, take home TAZORAC Cream or Gel and use as directed. TAZORAC is said to be for anyone who suffers from acne regardless of age, race, or gender. The product is to be applied for 12 weeks and results are promised in as little as four weeks.

How it works

TAZORAC Cream and Gel are prodrugs. A prodrug is a medication that’s supplied in a chemically inactive form and becomes active only after it enters the body. In the case of TAZORAC, the active ingredient, known as tazarotene, becomes effective medicine called tazarotenic acid once it passes through the skin. No other retinoid behaves the same way.

Admission of certain side effects

On the website for TOZORAC they will admit that if you take this product that you very well may be in a large group of those that have used the product to experience redness, peeling, burning, dry skin, or itchiness. The company conceals this with saying that things often get worse before they get better. The company claims that while you are going through this agony that new clear skin is developing.

Other possible side effects

As if the thought of red, burning skin wasn’t bad enough for you, if you look at the small print on the website you will find some more disturbing facts about using TAZORAC. The website states:

“TAZORAC Cream and Gel should not be used if you are also taking other drugs that increase your sensitivity to sunlight -e.g., thiazides, tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones, phenothiazines, sulfonamides-. Inform your physician if you are taking any other medications. Use protective clothing and sunscreens of at least SPF 15 during the day when using TAZORAC Cream and Gel. Do not use TAZORAC Cream and Gel if you have sunburn, eczema, or other continuing skin condition. Use TAZORAC Cream and Gel with caution if you are using other topical products that might dry or irritate the skin.”

Gel or Cream

TAZORAC is available in a gel or a cream. The main differences listed on the website between the two are the gel is cool and fast drying and the cream is non-greasy. It is stated by the company that your doctor should help you decide which one is best for you.

Conclusion

TAZORAC is again only available via prescription, so if you are interested in the product, you will have to take a trip to see yours. While the company says the product is effective over time, they also admit that you may have to go through a hellish process to get there. As there are many types of acne products available today that can be bought over-the-counter, perhaps the pain you may experience with TAZORAC is not worth the end result. Great consideration should be taken before you jump into a relationship with this product.