Overview
What is it?
Topical tazarotene is a third-generation retinoid, a synthetic form of vitamin A, used to treat acne vulgaris. It is not naturally occurring but is designed to mimic the effects of natural retinoids in the skin. It is available in gel and foam formulations, such as Fabior Foam 0.1%, and is approved for use in patients aged 12 and older .
How does it work?
Topical tazarotene works by normalizing the growth and differentiation of skin cells (keratinocytes) within the hair follicles, which helps prevent clogged pores. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, reducing redness and swelling associated with acne. By targeting these key factors, it helps clear existing acne and prevent new breakouts .
What are the benefits?
Topical tazarotene has been shown to significantly reduce inflammatory acne lesions and improve overall skin appearance. Studies have demonstrated its efficacy in reducing lesion counts by up to 72.4% and achieving higher success rates in improving acne severity compared to other treatments. Its foam formulation offers ease of application and may cause less irritation than traditional creams .
Effectiveness
What does the research say?
Research shows that topical tazarotene is highly effective for treating acne. In phase III studies, tazarotene 0.045% lotion reduced inflammatory lesions by 55.5% to 59.5% compared to a placebo. Another study found that tazarotene lotion was superior to tazarotene cream, with a 72.4% reduction in inflammatory lesions and higher treatment success rates. These results highlight its potential as a first-line treatment for acne .
Side Effects
Skin redness
Skin redness: Mild to moderate redness may occur at the application site .
Peeling
Peeling: The skin may peel or flake as it adjusts to the treatment .
Burning
Burning: A burning sensation is a common side effect, usually mild .
Dryness
Dryness: The skin may become dry, especially during the initial weeks of use .
Exfoliation
Exfoliation: Some users experience increased skin shedding or exfoliation .
Erythema
Erythema: Redness or inflammation of the skin may occur .
Photosensitivity
Photosensitivity: The skin may become more sensitive to sunlight, increasing the risk of sunburn .
Evidence
Clinical Studies & Trials
[1] Guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris.
This paper provides guidelines for managing acne vulgaris, a common skin condition affecting adolescents and adults.
View study[2] New Developments in Topical Acne Therapy.
This review highlights recent advancements in topical acne treatments, including novel formulations of tazarotene.
View study[3] Novel and emerging treatment options for acne vulgaris.
This paper discusses new and emerging treatments for acne, including improved formulations of tazarotene.
View study[4] Use of Retinoids in Topical Antiaging Treatments: A Focused Review of Clinical Evidence for Conventional and Nanoformulations.
This review explores the use of retinoids, including tazarotene, in topical treatments for acne and antiaging.
View study[5] New Acne Therapies and Updates on Use of Spironolactone and Isotretinoin: A Narrative Review.
This review discusses new acne therapies, including the efficacy and side effects of topical tazarotene.
View study[6] Topical Retinoids in Acne Vulgaris: A Systematic Review.
This systematic review evaluates the use of topical retinoids, including tazarotene, as a first-line treatment for acne.
View study[7] Tazarotene.
This paper reviews the efficacy and safety of tazarotene in treating acne and psoriasis.
View study[8] Pharmaceutical approval update.
This study discusses the FDA approval of Fabior Foam 0.1%, a topical tazarotene formulation for acne treatment.
View study