Application Guidelines:
- Cleanse the skin gently using a mild soap or cleanser and pat dry—do not rub.
- Shake the foam canister well before dispensing.
- Apply a small amount of foam to your fingertips and spread a thin layer over the entire affected area (not just on blemishes).
- Do not use near the eyes, mouth, or mucous membranes.
- Wash hands thoroughly after applying.
- Do not cover the treated skin with bandages or dressings unless directed by your doctor.
Important Tips:
- Use once daily in the evening to reduce sun sensitivity.
- Moisturizers may be applied before or after using Fabior to reduce dryness and irritation, but wait at least 1 hour between applications.
Avoid washing the treated area immediately after application to allow absorption.
Fabior’s active ingredient, tazarotene, works by affecting the growth of skin cells. Acne occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. This creates an environment where bacteria can thrive, leading to inflammation and the formation of pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads.
Tazarotene helps treat acne by:
- Increasing cell turnover: It promotes faster shedding of old skin cells and encourages the growth of new, healthy cells. This prevents pores from becoming clogged.
- Reducing inflammation: It helps to calm the redness and swelling associated with acne lesions.
- Decreasing oil production: It regulates sebum (oil) production in the skin, making it less likely for pores to become blocked.
- Unclogging pores: It actively clears existing blockages, leading to a reduction in acne lesions.
By targeting multiple causes of acne, Fabior offers a comprehensive approach to treatment, especially for inflammatory and comedonal (non-inflammatory) acne.
Common Side Effects:
- Skin Dryness: One of the most common side effects; using a gentle moisturizer can help reduce this.
- Peeling or Redness: Often occurs in the first few weeks and may decrease as the skin adjusts.
- Burning or Stinging: Mild discomfort may happen upon application but typically lessens over time.
- Itching: May occur during the adjustment phase.
Serious Side Effects:
- Severe Irritation: If your skin becomes very red, swollen, or blistered, stop using the product and contact your healthcare provider.
- Photosensitivity: Fabior increases your skin’s sensitivity to UV rays, making sunburn more likely. It’s important to use sunscreen and avoid direct sun exposure.
- Allergic Reaction: Though rare, signs include rash, swelling, dizziness, or trouble breathing—seek medical help immediately.
If side effects persist or worsen, consult your doctor promptly.
- Sun Exposure: Tazarotene increases sun sensitivity. Use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and avoid tanning beds.
- Pregnancy: Fabior is classified as Pregnancy Category X—it must not be used during pregnancy due to the risk of birth defects. Women of childbearing potential must use effective contraception during treatment and should have a negative pregnancy test before starting.
- Skin Conditions: Avoid using Fabior on eczema, sunburned, or broken skin, as it can worsen irritation.
- Not for Children Under 12: Safety and effectiveness have not been established for younger patients.
Consult your healthcare provider before starting Fabior, especially if you have sensitive skin or other medical conditions.
- Topical acne products: Using other topical products with strong drying or peeling effects (e.g., benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid) can increase the risk of irritation. If combining treatments, apply them at different times of the day (e.g., one in the morning, Fabior at night).
- Photosensitizing drugs: Medicines that increase sensitivity to sunlight (like certain antibiotics and diuretics) may increase the risk of sunburn when used with Fabior.
Cosmetics or skincare: Avoid using products that contain alcohol, astringents, or other irritating ingredients unless recommended by a doctor.
- Initial Dosage: Apply once daily in the evening to clean, dry skin.
- Duration: Results may take 6 to 12 weeks, so be consistent and patient.
- Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, skip it and apply the next one at your usual time. Do not double up on applications.
The dosage may be adjusted or paused temporarily if irritation becomes severe. Use as directed by your healthcare provider and avoid modifying the dose on your own.
Fabior is a prescription-only medication, meaning it must be recommended and dispensed by a licensed healthcare provider. Your doctor will evaluate your acne severity, skin type, and medical history before prescribing it.
- Consultation: A full skin evaluation is needed before starting.
- Monitoring: Regular follow-ups help assess progress and manage any side effects.
- Insurance Coverage: Coverage varies, so check with your insurer for possible cost assistance or generic alternatives.