1. Stick With Your Treatment
In this day and age, we're so used to instant gratification. Unfortunately, acne treatments don't work this way. They do take time, so we have to be patient and give them the time to work.
It's also very important to be consistent with your treatment. Your skin may seem to get worse before it gets better; stick with your treatment anyway. If it’s really concerning you, call your doctor.
2. Always Wear Moisturizer
Apply moisturizer just before applying Tazorac. This can help reduce side effects like redness, dryness, irritation and peeling.
Worried that moisturizer might break you out more? The right moisturizer can make your skin feel better without worsening your acne. Choose an oil-free, noncomedogenic or nonacnegenic product.
3. Don't Apply to Moist Skin
Instead of applying right after cleansing, wait 20 to 30 minutes before you apply your medication. Make sure your skin is very dry before applying. This will help shield your skin from irritation.
4. Don't Use Other Acne Treatment Medications or Products
Don’t use other acne treatments (for example, benzoyl peroxide, sulfur, etc.) unless your doc specifically gives you the OK. Even over-the-counter products can contribute to irritation.
More products to avoid: toners with alcohol, medicated soaps, drying aftershaves, and any other product that is drying to the skin.
5. Always Use Sunscreen
Yes, you've heard this before but sunscreen really is an important step. Using sunscreen regularly will help prevent sun damage and skin cancer.
Tazorac, like some other acne treatments, can cause photosensitivity. It's doubly important to wear sunscreen while using this medication. Save your skin from a bad burn and sun damage!
