Tazarene Cream 0.05%
Tazarene Cream 0.05%
Product Description
Product overview
Boderm Pharmaceutical Tazarene Cream 0.05% is a prescription-strength topical retinoid that pairs 0.05% tazarotene with salicylic acid (BHA), urea, panthenol and hyaluronic acid. Developed by the Greek pharmaceutical brand Boderm, it targets acne, plaque psoriasis and signs of photoaging, while a soothing, fragrance-free emollient base helps buffer the dryness and irritation typically associated with a potent retinoid.
Gold-Standard Retinoid
Tazarotene is a receptor-selective third-generation retinoid that accelerates cell turnover and normalizes keratinization for acne, psoriasis and photoaging.
Texture & feel
SENSORYGold-Standard Retinoid
Tazarotene is a receptor-selective third-generation retinoid that accelerates cell turnover and normalizes keratinization for acne, psoriasis and photoaging.
Built-In BHA Exfoliation
Salicylic acid is oil-soluble, so it penetrates clogged pores to clear congestion and complements the retinoid's anti-acne action.
Buffered, Soothing Base
Urea, panthenol, hyaluronic acid, bisabolol and allantoin hydrate and calm the skin to offset typical retinoid dryness and tightness.
Vegan & Reef-Safe
Free from fragrance, parabens, sulfates, oils and common allergens — a clean medical base for a powerful active.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains tazarotene, a teratogenic retinoid classified as former FDA Category X. It is contraindicated in pregnancy and not recommended while breastfeeding — avoid if pregnant or planning pregnancy.
Not fungal-acne safe. Contains fatty alcohols, esters and PEG/sorbitan stearates that may feed Malassezia in those prone to fungal acne.
Retinoids increase photosensitivity, especially in the first weeks. Use at night and apply a broad-spectrum SPF every morning.
Avoid layering with other retinoids, strong AHAs, benzoyl peroxide or vitamin C in the same routine to prevent excess irritation.
Tazarotene is prescription-only in most countries. Use exactly as your doctor or dermatologist directs and only on the areas advised.
Fragrance-free and free of common allergens, parabens and sulfates — friendlier for reactive skin once it has acclimated to the retinoid.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSTazarotene 0.05%Proven
The star active — a potent acetylenic, receptor-selective retinoid derived from vitamin A. It down-regulates keratinocyte proliferation and inflammation, making it effective for acne, plaque psoriasis and photodamage. Like tretinoin, it is prescription-only in many countries.
- Source: In vehicle-controlled studies, tazarotene 0.05% cream produced substantial reductions in erythema, scaling and plaque elevation in psoriasis, with improvement seen as early as 1–2 weeks.
- Source: FDA-approved forms of tazarotene treat acne, plaque psoriasis and photoaging; the 0.05% strength is generally less irritating than 0.1%.
Salicylic Acid BHAProven
A beta hydroxy acid that is oil-soluble, so it penetrates into pores to exfoliate, clear buildup, control oil and reduce inflammation. It pairs well with the retinoid to target congestion and blackheads.
- Source: Concentrations of 0.5–2% are recognized by the U.S. FDA as over-the-counter topical acne treatment ingredients.
Urea HumectantProven
A dual-action humectant and keratolytic. It draws and holds moisture to hydrate dry, flaky skin and helps soften rough texture — useful for offsetting retinoid-related dryness.
- Source: Studies show urea is an effective moisturizer for dry skin conditions; above ~10% it also has a keratolytic, exfoliating effect.
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) SoothingProven
A humectant that hydrates and soothes skin and supports wound healing. It penetrates the skin's layers and converts to pantothenic acid, helping calm the barrier during active treatment.
- Source: Panthenol binds and holds water like hyaluronic acid and supports wound healing by increasing tissue and helping close the skin.
Sodium Hyaluronate HAProven
The salt form of hyaluronic acid and a powerful humectant. It holds large amounts of water to keep skin plump and hydrated, counterbalancing the drying tendency of retinoids.
- Source: Sodium hyaluronate occurs naturally in the body and is valued in skincare for its strong water-binding, hydrating ability.
Bisabolol & Allantoin SoothersPromising
A soothing duo. Bisabolol blocks inflammatory signals, has antioxidant activity and may help with uneven tone; allantoin is a protective, moisturizing agent often added alongside strong actives to calm the skin.
- Source: Bisabolol is known for soothing properties and interferes with hyperpigmentation, while allantoin is recognized for protective, moisturizing and wound-healing support.
33 ingredients
Water, PPG-3 Benzyl Ether Myristate, Glyceryl Stearate, Panthenol, Urea, Diisopropyl Adipate, PPG-15 Stearyl Ether, PEG-100 Stearate, Dibutyl Adipate, Salicylic Acid, Dimethicone, Cetearyl Alcohol, Sodium Polyacrylate, Glycerin, Hydrogenated Polydecene, Phenoxyethanol, Sorbitan Stearate, Bisabolol, Citric Acid, Escin, Chlorphenesin, Allantoin, Hectorite, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Sodium Gluconate, Sodium Sulfite, Trideceth-6, Ethylhexylglycerin, Tazarotene, BHT, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Carboxymethyl Betaglucan.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse in the PM on fully dry skin. If irritation occurs, "buffer" or sandwich it with moisturizer, and never skip broad-spectrum SPF the following morning.
How to use
HOW TO USEPatch Test & Start Slow
Begin 2–3 nights per week to let your skin adjust, then gradually build to nightly as tolerated and as your doctor advises.
Cleanse & Dry Completely
Wash your face and wait around 20 minutes until skin is completely dry — applying to damp skin increases irritation.
Apply a Thin, Pea-Sized Layer
Spread a thin film over affected areas only. Avoid the eyes, lips, nostrils and broken skin; wash hands after applying.
Moisturize to Buffer
Follow with (or sandwich between) a gentle moisturizer to reduce dryness, flaking and tightness during the adjustment phase.
SPF Every Morning
Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen is non-negotiable — retinoids increase sun sensitivity and sun undoes your progress.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have a prescription and dermatologist guidance
- You struggle with persistent acne, clogged pores or congestion
- You have plaque psoriasis, sun damage or uneven texture
- You want a potent, multi-tasking retinoid paired with BHA
- You can commit to nightly use and daily SPF
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant, planning pregnancy or breastfeeding
- You have a very sensitive or compromised barrier (without supervision)
- You want a fragrant, cosmetic-feel face cream
- You specifically need a fungal-acne-safe product
- You can't tolerate a retinization / purge period
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESRetinoid plus oil-soluble BHA help regulate sebum and clear congestion — well suited to oily, breakout-prone skin.
Directly targets acne and post-acne marks. Expect an initial purge before clearing — consistency is key.
Tackles breakouts in oily zones; buffer drier areas with extra moisturizer to keep things balanced.
Effective but can be drying. Reduce frequency, use a richer moisturizer and lean on the urea/HA in the base.
High irritation potential. Use only under medical supervision with a slow, buffered introduction — or choose a gentler retinoid.
Results timeline
3–6 MONTHSAdjustment & Purge
Dryness, peeling, redness and a possible breakout purge are common as skin retinizes. Some psoriasis users see early easing of scaling.
~30% notice early changeClearing Begins
Flaking settles, breakouts start to calm and tone begins to even out as cell turnover normalizes.
~50% noticedVisible Results
Clearer skin, smoother texture and fewer breakouts become noticeable. Reviewers consistently advise patience to this point.
~65% noticedFull Effect
Sustained clarity, refined texture and reduced marks with continued, consistent use and diligent sun protection.
~75% satisfiedRatings by platform
159+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Powerful, derm-grade retinoid with strong clinical backing
- BHA and urea boost exfoliation and unclogging
- Soothing, fragrance-free, hydrating base
- Multi-tasks across acne, psoriasis, texture and marks
- Vegan and reef-safe formulation
Criticized
- Prescription-only — not available over the counter
- Dryness, redness and a purge are common early on
- Not safe in pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Not fungal-acne (Malassezia) safe
- Requires strict daily SPF and patience for results
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
An over-the-counter retinoid for acne — no prescription needed and generally gentler. Less potent than tazarotene and without the BHA/urea combo, but a great accessible starting point.
OTC adapalene in a soothing, fragrance-free base aimed at acne. Comparable retinoid action with a calmer feel, but milder and without salicylic acid or urea.
A cosmetic-grade retinoid for those wanting low irritation and no prescription. Much gentler and slower — better for sensitivity than for stubborn, treatment-resistant acne.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Tazorac / Avage (Tazarotene)
Differin (Adapalene 0.1%)
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHSApproximately 12 months after opening — always defer to the printed expiry date on this prescription product.
Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight; keep the tube tightly closed and out of children's reach.
Sealed aluminium/laminate pharmaceutical tube to protect the retinoid from light and air degradation.
Yes — the small tube is well under 100ml; carry your prescription documentation when travelling.
Frequently asked questions
FAQNo. The active ingredient, tazarotene, is a teratogenic retinoid classified under the former FDA Category X and is contraindicated during pregnancy. It is also generally advised against while breastfeeding. If you are pregnant, trying to conceive or nursing, do not use this product and speak with your doctor about safer alternatives.
No. The formula contains fatty alcohols (cetearyl alcohol), esters and emulsifiers such as PEG-100 stearate and sorbitan stearate, which can feed Malassezia yeast. If you are prone to fungal acne, this product may trigger flare-ups, so use with caution and monitor your skin.
Don't stack it with other retinoids (retinol, tretinoin, adapalene) — that only increases irritation without added benefit. It already contains salicylic acid (a BHA), so avoid adding strong standalone AHAs/BHAs in the same routine. If you use vitamin C, keep it in your morning routine and reserve this cream for the evening, introducing actives slowly.
It performs best on oily, combination and acne-prone skin, where the retinoid-plus-BHA combination clears congestion and breakouts. Dry skin can use it with extra moisturizer and reduced frequency, while sensitive skin should only proceed under medical supervision with a slow, buffered introduction.
Expect an adjustment/purge period in the first 1–2 weeks. Clearing typically begins around weeks 3–6, with visible improvement in clarity and texture by weeks 8–12. Full results usually appear over 3–6 months of consistent use — reviewers strongly advise patience.
Use it at night only. Cleanse, wait until your skin is completely dry (about 20 minutes), then apply a thin, pea-sized layer to affected areas, followed by moisturizer. Always apply a broad-spectrum SPF the next morning, since retinoids increase sun sensitivity.
Its comedogenic potential is low (around 2/5). While it contains a few esters and fatty alcohols that can rate mildly comedogenic, the retinoid and salicylic acid actively work to unclog pores and increase cell turnover, so for most acne-prone users it helps clear congestion rather than cause it.
Around 12 months after opening is a typical guide, but because this is a prescription medicine you should always follow the printed expiry date on the tube and packaging. Store it sealed, cool and away from light, and discard it once expired.
Verdict: Boderm's Tazarene Cream 0.05% is a genuinely potent, derm-grade treatment — pairing gold-standard tazarotene with BHA, urea and a soothing humectant base that makes a notoriously harsh retinoid far more wearable. It scores high for efficacy on acne, psoriasis and texture, but it's a prescription medicine rather than a cosmetic: it demands patience through the purge, strict daily SPF, and is strictly off-limits in pregnancy and not suitable for fungal-acne-prone skin. Best for committed users following professional guidance.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 4 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 6 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 2 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
PPG-3 Benzyl Ether Myristate
Emollient, Solvent, Uv Absorber
|
|
|
| 1 |
Glyceryl Stearate
Emollient, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 1 |
Panthenol
Skin Conditioning, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 0 |
Urea
Humectant, Skin Conditioning, Buffering
|
Hydrating
Texture
|