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Topical retinoids have been used in the dermatology field for many years to treat a variety of different skin conditions. Retinoids are classified into four generations. Tretinoin belongs to the first generation, while tazarotene is part of the third generation. These two topical treatments are often compared to one another since they both are proven to be effective treatments for treating issues such as acne and hyperpigmentation. They can also both be used for anti-aging. This article will cover the similarities between these treatments and how they are different from one another. It will also cover how patients can determine the best option for them.
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This term is used to refer to a specific group of vitamin A-based skin care products. These products work by speeding up cell renewal and boosting collagen production. This allows the product to help with issues such as improving skin tone or texture and fine lines/wrinkles. This can also help with unclogging pores. This makes these treatments very beneficial for skin health and improving the skin’s overall appearance.
| Category | Tretinoin | Tazarotene |
| Potency | Moderate strength | Higher potency (generally stronger and faster-acting) |
| Efficacy |
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| Formulations |
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| Irritation & Side Effects |
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| Approvals & Uses |
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This treatment has been used for decades and was officially approved by the FDA in 1971. It is considered to be a first-generation agent and works by binding nuclear retinoic acid receptors (RARs) to alter gene transcription and normalize keratinization. This treatment is commonly prescribed to patients to help with issues such as fighting acne and wrinkles. This treatment is also used to help alleviate sun damage and dark spots.
Several different formulations for this medication are available. This includes gel/jelly formulations. This also includes options for lotions and creams. Exact strengths – often varying from 0.025% to 0.1% – vary by brand and formulation. For example, there are tretinoin microsphere gel products with formulations of 0.1% and 0.04% tretinoin. There is also lotion – like Arazlo that contains 0.045% tretinoin or Altreno that contains 0.05% tretinoin.
Some skin reactions may occur in patients using this treatment. Common reactions can include dryness or mild skin irritation. Pain or redness may also occur. Patients experiencing these side effects should talk to their doctor to see if there are any other products that may be used to reduce these issues.
Patients should also be aware that this treatment may make their skin more sensitive to sunlight during the duration they are using it. This means they should take necessary precautions to further prevent skin damage from the sun. Patients should minimize UV exposure and use a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to protect their skin when in the sun. Other protective clothing may be worn for additional sun protection.
This treatment is a newer and stronger retinoid that was approved by the FDA in 1997. It is considered to be a third-generation retinoid that is also used for treating issues such as acne and skin damage related to exposure to the sun. This treatment is also often used as a plaque psoriasis treatment. Tazarotene may also have benefits such as minimizing fine lines and fixing pigmentation.
This product may be found in the form of a lotion (0.045%) or cream (0.05% or 0.1%). It may also be found and used in the form of a gel (0.05% or 0.1%) or foam (0.1%). This medication is known to be stronger than tretinoin. However, it is also linked to a higher likelihood of side effects. Side effects such as itching or peeling, burning/pain, and redness or irritation are all considered to be common with this treatment’s use. Patients should let their healthcare provider know if any of these issues become bothersome to them.
Both of these treatment options cause similar side effects. Some of the most common ones include pain or irritation where the topical was placed. Dryness and peeling may also occur. Some patients may also experience burning or redness. Heightened sun sensitivity is another common effect. The side effects may be more frequently experienced with the use of tazarotene.
Patients new to using this medication should start slowly to see how these treatments affect them before using them in greater strengths or more frequently. Using moisturizers and daily sunscreen may also help mitigate the side effects of these treatments.
These medications may have worse effects when used in patients with issues like eczema or dermatitis. Patients should avoid use on eczematous or sunburned skin
The effects of these medications on patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding have not yet been studied enough to be deemed safe. Evidence of fetal harm has been shown in animal studies for tazarotene and the effects of topical tretinoin use during pregnancy still has limited data. Pregnancy testing and effective contraception are required per label. These topicals should be avoided during pregnancy as a precaution.
Tretinoin has been around longer and is often more affordable. A tube of this treatment can often be found for around $120 without insurance coverage, while a tube of tazarotene is often closer to around $400 without insurance. Tazarotene is usually a little more expensive and harder to find in stock. These medications are offered in both brand-name and generic forms.
Insurance coverage may be available for both products and further reduce the price for applicable patients. Non-insured patients may be able to use online coupons at participating pharmacies to lower costs as well. Exact prices may vary greatly between pharmacies.
These treatments should not be used in combination with one another or with other retinoids. Other acne medications – like benzoyl peroxide, beta or alpha hydroxy acids, or erythromycin gel – may be recommended to be used simultaneously with these treatments by a dermatologist. However, they should only be used with caution and professional oversight. Keep in mind that dermatology guidelines emphasize that products should not be mixed ad hoc unless they are in a fixed-dose combination studied for safety and stability.
It is not recommended that these treatments be used with toners and astringents. These can increase the chance of drying out and irritating the skin. These treatments may also not be safe to use with other strong exfoliants right away. Antibiotics and other medications that may increase the risk of sunlight sensitivity should also be avoided when using these treatments unless a dermatologist tells the patient to combine them.
There are a few factors to consider when patients are determining which treatment option is the best fit for them. Tretinoin works well for beginners or those with sensitive or dry skin. It is gentler and has a long record of safety. It treats acne and sun damage. It is also effective for treating early signs of aging. This treatment option is available in many strengths which may make it easy to adjust over time.
Tazarotene may be better for patients with tougher cases – such as stubborn acne or pigmentation issues and psoriasis. It acts faster but is more likely to cause unwanted side effects. This option may be best for patients who have used retinoids before or who can tolerate stronger treatments. Those with more sensitive skin or those looking for a long-term treatment may benefit more from tretinoin to start.
Both require consistent use and daily sun protection. A dermatologist can help decide which option best fits each patient’s skin needs.
Both tazarotene and tretinoin are treatments that have been around for decades to help patients treat skin issues such as acne and aging. These can also be used to treat damage to the skin from the sun. Both topical retinoids work similarly. However, they have different strengths and tolerabilities. Tazarotene is a newer treatment that may work faster – but with a higher chance of side effects. The correct choice boils down to individual skin and medical guidance. Patients should talk to a dermatologist before starting either to make sure they are choosing a product that is safe and effective for them.
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Yes. Tazarotene is considered a higher-strength retinoid and may produce results faster. However, users may experience side effects more often with this treatment.
This may be done under medical supervision. A dermatologist may recommend starting with tretinoin first to build tolerance before switching to tazarotene.
Tazarotene often shows results sooner – especially for acne and pigmentation. Tretinoin tends to work more gradually with fewer side effects.
Studies have shown that retinoids like these medications are safe for long-term use when applied as directed and monitored by a dermatologist.
Tretinoin is usually a better option for sensitive skin. Tazarotene may cause too much irritation for some users and should be used only if tolerated well.
Altreno. (n.d.). Altreno. https://www.altreno.com/
CENTER FOR DRUG EVALUATION AND RESEARCH. (2019). U.S. FOOD & DRUG ADMINISTRATION. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/nda/2019/211882Orig1s000ChemR.pdf
Chandraratna, R. A. (1997, August 1). Tazarotene: the first receptor-selective topical retinoid for the treatment of psoriasis. PubMed. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9270551/
Choo, H. J. (n.d.). Tazarotene (Tazorac, Arazlo, and others) – Uses, Side Effects, and More. WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-561-8230/tazarotene-topical/tazarotene-cream-topical/details
Evans, A. (2024, July 9). 4 Tretinoin Interactions to Watch Out For. GoodRx. https://www.goodrx.com/tretinoin/interactions
How much is tretinoin without insurance? (2025, May 9). The Checkup. https://www.singlecare.com/blog/tretinoin-without-insurance/
Kakita, L. (2000). Tazarotene versus tretinoin or adapalene in the treatment of acne vulgaris. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 43(2), S51–S54. https://doi.org/10.1067/mjd.2000.108322
RETIN-A MICRO®. (n.d.). DailyMed. https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/fda/fdaDrugXsl.cfm?setid=78f03983-f636-43c3-90c5-3d5231909b2a
Retinoid or Retinol? (n.d.). American Academy of Dermatology Association. https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/anti-aging/retinoid-retinol
Robotti, S. B. (2020, December 17). Is Retin-A safe for Long-Term use? MedShadow Foundation. https://medshadow.org/retin-a-safety/
Tazarotene Topical Use During Pregnancy. (n.d.). Drugs.com. https://www.drugs.com/pregnancy/tazarotene-topical.html
Written & Reviewed By
The MyRx Team
The MyRx Outlet team is a dedicated group of healthcare professionals and pharmacists dedicated to delivering up-to-date and accurate information on medications and key healthcare topics. With years of experience in the healthcare field, our team is passionate about supporting individuals in reaching their health and wellness goals through our articles.
The information provided here is for educational purposes only and is not intended to serve as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. It should not be taken as an endorsement of any specific medication or treatment. Individual health conditions and responses to treatment can vary greatly; therefore, this information should not be seen as a guarantee of safety, suitability, or effectiveness for any particular individual. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized medical advice and before making any decisions regarding your health or treatment plans.
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