Key takeaways
Altreno (tretinoin) and Arazlo (tazarotene) are both topical retinoid medications used to treat acne in people 9 years and older. They work by promoting the growth of new skin cells and reducing oil and inflammation. However, there are several differences between the two. Altreno is available as a lotion and is applied once daily, while Arazlo is also a lotion but contains 0.045% tazarotene. Altreno may not be suitable for people with fish allergies due to its fish protein content, whereas Arazlo does not have this concern. Both medications can cause skin dryness and irritation, but Arazlo has a higher risk of causing stinging or burning sensations. Additionally, neither medication is safe to use during pregnancy, but Arazlo requires extra precautions, such as a pregnancy test before starting treatment. Lastly, Arazlo should not be used with benzoyl peroxide unless advised by a prescriber, as benzoyl peroxide can reduce its effectiveness.
