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pamela_hart2026-04-18

In my quest to beat acne, I started using Tazorac 0.1% Gel on my doctor's recommendation. It seems to be working, but the skin irritation is getting to be a lot to handle. I've been dealing with burning, dry skin and a lot of peeling. It's so annoying. I've been careful to follow the directions and only apply a small amount, but I'm wondering if anyone else has had this experience and how you handled it. Should I push through the irritation and keep going, or is it a sign that I should talk to my doctor about adjusting my treatment? What does your skincare routine look like to manage the irritation? I've heard some people use moisturizer or avoid washing their face too often. I've also heard it get worse before it gets better. Every little bit of guidance or encouragement would be appreciated.

1 min read
last active 4/18/2026
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Comments (9)

R
ralph_andrews4/15/2026

I'm on my second tube of Tazorac and the skin irritation has been manageable. I started using a humidifier in my bedroom at night, and it's made a big difference. My skin feels so much less dry and irritated. Also, applying the gel only every other day at first helped my skin tolerate it better. Keep fighting the good fight—it’s worth it if you can handle the irritation. You’ll feel like a beautiful butterfly in no time.

M
martha_nichols4/15/2026

This must be an even drier or more sensitive skin. I never had this issue with Tazorac, but I had an awful reaction to Accutane. It’s a total roller coaster!

J
joyce_ford4/15/2026

I agree with stickinitthe time it takes for skin to adjust is frustrating. I had my face dry and peeling for at least the first two weeks, but now I feel pretty solid for the medium strength cream and so does the doctor. Stick with it and keep your face moisturized. That really makes a difference. I remember how dry my face was. When moisturized, my face looked worse than before and like it was going to fall off. You’ll thank yourself later.

E
elena_vargas4/15/2026

I started Tazorac a few weeks ago and was so nervous about the side effects. I moisturize all the time now and it really helps.

N
nina_kowalski4/15/2026

I thought the irritation would never stop, but after about a month, it started to get better. Just keep it’s going and be patient, but if everything is still bad then consult your doctor.

S
stephen_sanders4/16/2026

Staying hydrated and wearing sunscreen all day has helped me a lot with the irritation. And yes, it can get intense at first but give it time. I also switch my moisturizer and cleanser to a stronger and thicker one

L
logan_johnson4/16/2026

I was using a different face wash at first and I don't think it was helping much. I changed to a very gentle, fragrance-free face wash and it made a big difference. Everyone's skin is different, so it might take some trial and error to figure out what works best for you. I also heard that I should only apply it every other day or every third day at first, to help the skin get used to it.

V
virginia_hughes4/16/2026

Stick with it! I know it’s annoying, but if you can get through the irritation, my skin has never looked better.

J
judy_berry4/16/2026

I’ve been on Tazorac for a while now and I can confirm that it gets worse before it gets better. Stick with it, but definitely talk to your doctor if the irritation becomes unbearable. For me, using a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser and moisturizer twice a day made a huge difference. I also avoid direct sunlight on my face and wear sunscreen.