Tazarotene foam, 0.1%, for the treatment of acne.

INTRODUCTION: Acne is a common skin condition of the pilosebaceous units that affects the young and old, ranges from moderate to severe and can be treated with an array of options. Topical retinoids are the initial treatment for acne due to their ability to treat comedones, the starting point of acne.

AREAS COVERED: Tazarotene is a topical retinoid available as a cream, gel and foam. Tazarotene 0.1% foam was FDA approved in 2012 for the treatment of acne in patients ages ≥12 and is the first foam topical retinoid on the market. Phase I and III trials support the efficacy and safety of tazarotene foam for acne.

EXPERT OPINION: The foam vehicles may increase compliance and satisfaction in some patients and as retinoids are commonly first line acne treatments, this new topical retinoid foam may be a useful option for some acne patients.