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Tazarotene vs. Tretinoin

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Tazarotene (Tazorac) and tretinoin (Retin-A) are both topical retinoids used to treat acne. They work by promoting the growth of new skin cells and unclogging pores. Tazarotene is also FDA-approved for treating plaque psoriasis, while tretinoin is not. And both medications are often used off-label for fine wrinkles and sun damage. Tazarotene may be more effective that tretinoin, especially for severe symptoms. but it may also come with more side effects. Both medications are applied once daily, typically in the evening. They have similar side effects, such as skin irritation and increased sensitivity to sunlight.

Tazarotene

(Tazorac)

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Retin-A

(tretinoin)

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Summary for Tazarotene

Prescription only

Tazarotene (Tazorac) is a topical retinoid that's used for treating acne and plaque psoriasis. It helps exfoliate the skin and lessen skin inflammation. Tazarotene (Tazorac) is available as a cream and a gel that's applied directly to the affected areas of skin once per day. Adults can use either the cream or gel. Certain children can also use this medication depending on how old they are, whether they have acne or psoriasis, and whether they're using the cream or gel. Side effects include skin irritation and itching. It can also raise your risk for sunburns.

Indications for Tazarotene

Pros and Cons for Tazarotene

Pros

  • Works well for treating acne and plaque psoriasis
  • Used once per day
  • Available as a gel and cream

Cons

  • Can take a few months to see significant skin improvement
  • Can make your skin more irritated or more likely to burn
  • Not safe to use while pregnant

Common Side Effects for Tazarotene

  • Dry skin
  • Skin peeling or flaking
  • Itching
  • Skin redness
  • Burning or stinging feeling on the skin

Warnings for Tazarotene

  • Harm to unborn baby
  • Risk for sunburn
  • Skin irritation

Summary for Tretinoin

Prescription only

Retin-A (tretinoin) is a retinoid medication that's used to treat acne in adults and children 12 years and older. It's available as a cream or a gel that's applied onto the skin once a day. Side effects include skin irritation, redness, and peeling. Your acne might get worse at the beginning of treatment, but it should get better as you continue using the medication. You must have a prescription for Retin-A (tretinoin) from your primary care provider or dermatologist; this medication isn't available over the counter.

Indications for Tretinoin

  • Acne

Pros and Cons for Tretinoin

Pros

  • Easy to apply onto your skin
  • Only need to apply once nightly
  • Available in a lower-cost generic form

Cons

  • Makes your skin more sensitive to sunlight, which can lead to sunburns
  • Can cause your skin color to temporarily become lighter or darker
  • Might worsen your acne during the first few weeks of treatment

Common Side Effects for Tretinoin

  • Skin peeling or discomfort
  • Warm feeling or stinging after applying
  • Skin redness
  • Sensitivity to sunlight (sunburns)
  • Worsening of acne in the first few weeks of treatment

Warnings for Tretinoin

  • Sunburns
  • Skin irritation in extreme weather
  • Skin reactions

Prices with our coupons for Tazarotene vs. Tretinoin

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Tazarotene1 tube / 30g of 0.1%
$53.04$70.77
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Tretinoin1 tube / 45g of 0.025%
$38.37$94.25
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