Product Description
Tazret is a prescription-strength topical retinoid containing Tazarotene, the most potent retinoid available for treating acne vulgaris, plaque psoriasis, and photoaging. This third-generation retinoid normalizes skin cell turnover, reduces inflammation, and promotes collagen production for clearer, younger-looking skin.
โจ Texture & Feel
Most Potent Retinoid
Tazarotene is the strongest prescription retinoid available, offering superior efficacy compared to tretinoin and adapalene for acne and anti-aging.
Receptor-Selective
Third-generation retinoid with selective affinity for RARฮฒ and RARฮณ receptors, providing targeted action with potentially fewer side effects.
Multi-Benefit Treatment
FDA-approved for acne, psoriasis, and photoaging. Addresses fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and skin texture simultaneously.
Faster Results
Clinical studies show tazarotene achieves faster reductions in acne lesions compared to tretinoin, with visible improvements in 4-8 weeks.
๐ก๏ธ Safety & Compatibility
Tazarotene is teratogenic and strictly contraindicated during pregnancy. Women of childbearing potential must use effective contraception and obtain a negative pregnancy test before starting treatment.
Radioactivity was detected in rat milk after topical application. Use is not recommended during breastfeeding due to unknown effects on the infant.
Contains Polysorbate 40 and PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate which can feed Malassezia yeast. Not suitable for fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis).
Significantly increases photosensitivity. Daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen is mandatory. Avoid prolonged sun exposure and tanning beds.
Formula is oil-free and unlikely to clog pores. Comedogenic rating of 1/5 makes it suitable for acne-prone skin.
Safety and efficacy not established for children under 12 years for acne treatment, and under 18 years for psoriasis treatment.
๐ฌ Ingredient Breakdown
๐งฌ Tazarotene 0.05% - 0.1% Gold Standard
A third-generation acetylenic retinoid that converts to tazarotenic acid upon skin contact. The most potent prescription retinoid available, with selective receptor binding for enhanced efficacy.
- Mechanism: Binds selectively to RARฮฒ and RARฮณ receptors, modulating gene expression for cell differentiation and proliferation
- Acne: 60% reduction in non-inflammatory lesions vs 38% with tretinoin in clinical trials
- Anti-aging: Stimulates collagen production, reduces fine lines and wrinkles, improves hyperpigmentation
- Half-life: Approximately 18 hours after topical application
๐ Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) Antioxidant
A powerful antioxidant that helps protect skin from free radical damage and supports collagen synthesis. Works synergistically with retinoids for enhanced brightening effects.
- Function: Antioxidant protection and skin brightening
- Benefit: Helps reduce hyperpigmentation and supports skin barrier
๐ก๏ธ BHA & BHT Stabilizers
Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) are antioxidant preservatives that prevent oxidation and maintain product stability.
- Function: Prevent degradation of tazarotene and extend shelf life
- Safety: Used in small concentrations considered safe for topical use
๐งด Carbomer Thickener
A high-molecular weight polymer that creates the gel texture. Due to its large molecular size, it has minimal skin penetration and is considered an inert ingredient.
- Function: Forms gel structure and improves spreadability
- Safety: Non-irritating and non-penetrating
13 ingredients
Tazarotene, Benzyl Alcohol, Ascorbic Acid, BHA, BHT, Carbomer, Disodium EDTA, Hexylene Glycol, Poloxamer 407, PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Polysorbate 40, Water, Tromethamine
๐ Where It Fits in Your Routine
Apply at night only. Wait 20-30 minutes after cleansing for skin to dry completely before application. Can be buffered with moisturizer for sensitive skin.
๐ How to Use
Cleanse & Dry
Wash face with a gentle, non-irritating cleanser. Pat skin completely dry and wait 20-30 minutes. Applying to damp skin increases irritation.
Apply Pea-Sized Amount
Dispense a pea-sized amount and apply a thin layer to affected areas only. Avoid eyes, lips, nostrils, and any broken or irritated skin.
Start Slowly
Begin with every other day or every third day application. Gradually increase to nightly use as your skin builds tolerance over 2-4 weeks.
Moisturize
Apply a non-comedogenic moisturizer after Tazret has absorbed. This helps minimize dryness and irritation.
Sunscreen Daily
Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ every morning. Reapply every 2 hours during sun exposure. Retinoids significantly increase sun sensitivity.
๐ค Who Is It For?
โ Perfect for you if:
- You have moderate to severe acne not responding to OTC treatments
- You want the most potent retinoid available
- You have plaque psoriasis (up to 20% body surface area)
- You want to address photoaging, fine lines, and wrinkles
- You have hyperpigmentation or uneven skin tone
- You can commit to strict sun protection
- You are NOT pregnant and NOT planning pregnancy
โ Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis)
- You have eczema or very sensitive/reactive skin
- You cannot commit to daily sunscreen use
- You need immediate results (purging period is common)
- You have sunburned or windburned skin
- You are under 12 years old
๐ฏ Skin Type Compatibility
Ideal for oily skin types. Helps regulate sebum production and prevents clogged pores. The gel formulation absorbs quickly without adding shine.
Can be very drying. Requires heavy moisturization and slower introduction. The cream formulation (Tazret Forte) may be more suitable.
Works well for combination skin. Can target-apply to oilier zones. May need extra moisture on drier areas.
High irritation potential. Sensitive skin types may experience significant burning, redness, and peeling. Consider gentler alternatives like adapalene.
Specifically designed for acne treatment. FDA-approved for acne vulgaris. More effective than tretinoin for comedonal acne in clinical studies.
๐ Results Timeline
Adjustment Period
Skin may experience dryness, redness, and mild peeling as it adjusts to the retinoid. This is normal and expected. Some users notice initial purging.
80% experience initial irritationPurging Phase
Existing microcomedones are pushed to the surface, potentially causing increased breakouts. This is the medication working to clear clogged pores. Stay consistent!
60% experience purgingVisible Improvement
Acne lesions begin to noticeably reduce. Skin texture starts improving. Hyperpigmentation begins fading. Side effects typically decrease.
70% see improvementSignificant Results
Major reduction in acne. Skin appears clearer, smoother, and more even-toned. Fine lines may appear reduced. Full acne clearing for many users.
85% achieve clear skinOptimal Results
Maximum anti-aging and acne benefits achieved. Continued use maintains results. Some users report looking years younger with consistent application.
90% satisfied with resultsโญ Ratings by Platform
โ๏ธ Pros & Cons
โ Praised
- Most potent prescription retinoid available
- Faster results than tretinoin in clinical studies
- FDA-approved for acne and psoriasis
- Significant anti-aging benefits (fine lines, wrinkles)
- Evens skin tone and fades hyperpigmentation
- Long-term improvements in skin texture
- Affordable generic version (vs. brand Tazorac)
- 80% of users report positive experience
โ Criticized
- Severe initial purging for many users
- Significant dryness, peeling, and irritation
- Strictly contraindicated in pregnancy
- Not suitable for sensitive skin types
- Requires 2-4 months to see full results
- Dramatically increases sun sensitivity
- Can cause permanent skin redness in some
- Not fungal acne safe
๐ฐ Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
First-generation retinoid with decades of research. Slightly less potent but equally effective for most users. Better tolerated by sensitive skin. Also available in India.
Third-generation retinoid available OTC. Gentler with less irritation. Good starting point for retinoid beginners. Less effective for anti-aging compared to tazarotene.
Lower strength tretinoin for sensitive skin. Gentler introduction to prescription retinoids. May take longer to see results but with fewer side effects.
Indian generic adapalene. Significantly gentler than tazarotene. Good for mild to moderate acne. Better photostability than tretinoin.
๐ Comparison with Competitors
Tazret (Tazarotene) - Featured
$13.27Tretinoin (Retin-A)
$6.00-$25.00Adapalene (Differin)
$5.33-$12.99Tazorac (Brand)
$400-$600๐ฆ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening. Check expiration date on packaging.
Store at 20-25ยฐC (68-77ยฐF). Protect from light and heat. Do not freeze.
Aluminum tube with screw cap. Keep tightly closed when not in use.
Yes, 15g and 20g sizes are under 100ml TSA limit. Store in cool place during travel.
โ Frequently Asked Questions
No, Tazret (tazarotene) is strictly CONTRAINDICATED during pregnancy. It was classified as Category X under the old FDA system, meaning it is teratogenic and can cause birth defects. Women of childbearing potential must obtain a negative pregnancy test within 2 weeks before starting treatment and use effective contraception throughout use. Tazarotene has been detected in animal milk after topical application, so breastfeeding is also not recommended during use. If you become pregnant while using Tazret, discontinue immediately and consult your doctor.
No, Tazret is NOT fungal acne safe. The formula contains Polysorbate 40 and PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, which are known to feed Malassezia yeast and can worsen fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis). If you have fungal acne, consider alternatives like adapalene formulations specifically formulated to be FA-safe, or consult with a dermatologist for appropriate antifungal treatments.
Caution is advised when combining Tazret with other active ingredients. Do NOT use with other retinoids (tretinoin, adapalene, retinol) as this dramatically increases irritation. Vitamin C can be used in the morning when Tazret is used at night, but introduce slowly. AHAs and BHAs should be avoided initially until your skin has fully adjusted to Tazret (typically 2-3 months). When you do reintroduce acids, use them on alternate days. Always consult your dermatologist before combining active ingredients.
Tazret works best for oily and acne-prone skin types. It's excellent for those with moderate to severe acne who haven't responded to other treatments. Combination skin also does well with targeted application. However, it's NOT ideal for sensitive skin due to high irritation potential, and dry skin types may struggle with increased dryness and peeling. The cream formulation (Tazret Forte) may be slightly better for drier skin than the gel version.
Initial improvements typically appear around 4-8 weeks, but expect a purging period during weeks 2-4 where acne may temporarily worsen as clogged pores are cleared. Most users see significant improvement by 8-12 weeks. For anti-aging benefits like reduced fine lines and improved hyperpigmentation, expect 3-6 months of consistent use. Full results for psoriasis typically take 1-4 weeks. The key is consistency - don't give up during the purging phase!
Apply Tazret at night only, after cleansing. The correct order is: (1) Gentle cleanser, (2) Wait 20-30 minutes for skin to fully dry, (3) Apply Tazret to affected areas, (4) Wait 10-15 minutes, (5) Apply moisturizer. For sensitive skin, you can "buffer" by applying moisturizer first, then Tazret. Never use during the day due to photosensitivity. In the morning, use your regular routine with SPF 30+ sunscreen as the final step.
No, Tazret has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5. The formula is oil-free and specifically designed to treat acne by unclogging pores. In fact, tazarotene is a comedolytic agent - it actively helps break down comedones (blackheads and whiteheads). However, during the initial purging period, you may see what appears to be more breakouts as existing clogged pores are purged to the surface. This is not the product clogging pores, but clearing them.
Tazret has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. After opening, use within one year for optimal efficacy and safety. Store at room temperature (20-25ยฐC/68-77ยฐF) away from direct light and heat. The product contains stabilizers (BHA and BHT) to prevent degradation, but exposure to light and air over time can reduce potency. Always check the expiration date on the packaging and discard if the product changes color, smell, or texture.
Verdict: Tazret (Tazarotene) is the most potent prescription retinoid available, offering superior efficacy for stubborn acne, psoriasis, and photoaging. Clinical studies demonstrate faster results compared to tretinoin, particularly for non-inflammatory acne. However, this power comes with significant trade-offs: severe initial irritation, a prolonged purging phase, and strict contraindication during pregnancy. The affordable price point compared to brand-name Tazorac makes it accessible for those who need maximum-strength retinoid therapy. Best suited for resilient, oily, acne-prone skin types who can commit to strict sun protection and aren't planning pregnancy. Not recommended for sensitive skin, fungal acne, or anyone unable to tolerate a 2-4 month adjustment period. When used correctly under dermatologist supervision, Tazret can deliver transformative results - but patience and proper skincare support are essential.
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 skinโs 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 ยซpromisesยป 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 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Tazarotene
Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Dark Spots
Pores
|
|
| 5 |
Benzyl Alcohol
Solvent, Masking, Fragrance, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Preservative, External Analgesic, Perfuming
|
|
|
| 1 |
Ascorbic Acid
Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Antioxidant, Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Buffering
|
Brightening
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 0 |
BHA
Masking, Antioxidant
|
|
|
| 6 |
BHT
Masking, Fragrance, Antioxidant
|
|