Aklief
Aklief contains trifarotene 0.005% topical cream. It's a retinoid used to treat acne in people ages 9 years and older. Aklief (trifarotene) is applied directly to the affected area(s) once per day in the evening. Some of the more common effects include dry skin, peeling, and itching. Your skin will likely experience more irritation during the first month of treatment, before it starts to improve.
What is Aklief (trifarotene)?
What is Aklief (trifarotene) used for?
Treatment of acne in people ages 9 years and older
How Aklief (trifarotene) works
Aklief (trifarotene) is a retinoid, which is a form of vitamin A. It helps unclog the pores of your skin by lowering the amount of oil produced by the body, removing dead skin cells, and replacing your old skin cells with new skin cells. This prevents acne and pimples from forming on your face, chest, shoulders, and back. It also lowers inflammation and swelling that typically occurs with acne.
Drug Facts
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What are the side effects of Aklief (trifarotene)?
Common Side Effects
- Irritation at application site (8%)
- Sunburn (3%)
- Skin itching (2%)
Other Side Effects
- Pain at application site
- Dry skin
- Changes in skin color
- Skin rash
- Swelling
- Skin blisters or sores
- Worsening of acne
- Skin redness
Source: DailyMed
The following side effects have also been reported
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
- Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Burning, itching, crusting, or peeling of treated skin
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
- Change in skin color
- Mild skin irritation, redness, or dryness
- Sensitivity to light
Pros and cons of Aklief (trifarotene)
Pros
Available as a cream in an easy-to-use pump
Only need to use once per day
Treats acne on the face, chest, shoulders, and back
Safe to use in children ages 9 years and older
Cons
Only available as a brand-name medication
Skin might look worse during the first month of treatment, before it starts to improve
Can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, which can lead to sunburns
Must use mild, non-medicated soaps, cleansers, and shampoos to prevent skin irritation
Pharmacist tips for Aklief (trifarotene)
Aklief (trifarotene) should be applied directly on your skin only. Don't apply the medication in your eyes, mouth, or vagina, or this could lead to side effects. Also, don't apply Aklief (trifarotene) on cuts, scrapes, or damaged skin, because this can cause further irritation.
Apply Aklief (trifarotene) once per day in the evening on the affected area(s). Make sure to apply enough amount to cover the skin with a thin layer of medication. Avoid applying Aklief (trifarotene) to skin that has eczema or that's sunburned.
Start using a mild moisturizer as often as needed to help prevent your skin from becoming too dry or irritated. Also, use sunscreen and wear protective clothing (e.g., hats, long-sleeved shirts) when going outside because Aklief (trifarotene) can make your skin more sensitive to light.
After applying Aklief (trifarotene), it's possible to feel or see skin redness, dryness, peeling, or stinging. This is how the medication works and is normal. If you're concerned about any skin reactions or if they get too bothersome while using Aklief (trifarotene), talk to your care team.
Don't use medicated soaps, cleansers, shampoos, or other personal care products that might cause skin irritation. Some products contain drying agents, like alcohol, which can further irritate the skin. Ask your pharmacist or dermatologist for guidance on which products are safe to use with Aklief (trifarotene).
Don't use waxing for hair removal on areas of your skin treated with Aklief (trifarotene), as this can cause further skin irritation.
Store Aklief (trifarotene) at room temperature away from heat. Keep it tightly closed and out of reach from children.
Frequently asked questions about Aklief (trifarotene)
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What are the risks and warnings for Aklief (trifarotene)?
Aklief (trifarotene) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.
Skin irritation
Risk factors: First month of using Aklief (trifarotene) | Applying Aklief (trifarotene) to areas with cuts, wounds, or bruises
Aklief (trifarotene) can cause skin irritation, such as dry skin, redness, and stinging or burning. These skin reactions are expected to be worse during first month of using Aklief (trifarotene), and should get better after that. Use a mild, non-medicated moisturizer as much as needed to help prevent skin irritation. Don't apply Aklief (trifarotene) to areas of your skin with cuts, scrapes, wounds, or bruises, because those areas might already be irritated. Also, avoid hair waxing on skin areas treated with Aklief (trifarotene) because this can lead to worsening skin damage. Depending on how severe your side effects are, your prescriber might tell you to use a smaller amount of Aklief (trifarotene) or temporarily stop using it until your skin heals.
Sunburn
Your skin can become more sensitive to ultraviolet (UV) light while using Aklief (trifarotene). Too much exposure to UV light can even cause severe sunburn. Minimize your exposure to sunlight, sun lamps, and tanning beds during and immediately following treatment with Aklief (trifarotene). If possible, limit your time out in the sun or seek shade when you're outside. If you plan on spending time in the sun, ask your dermatologist about using sunscreen and wearing protective clothing (e.g., hats, long-sleeved shirts).
Aklief (trifarotene) dosage forms
| Dosage | Quantity | Price as low as | Price per unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 45g of 0.005% | 1 pump | $674.02 | $674.02 |
Typical dosing for Aklief (trifarotene)
Aklief cream contains 0.005% trifarotene.
Adults and children ages 9 years and older: Apply a thin layer of Aklief (trifarotene) cream to the affected area(s) once per day in the evening.
How much does Aklief (trifarotene) cost?
What are alternatives to Aklief (trifarotene)?
Treatment of acne in people ages 9 years and older
What is the latest news about Aklief (trifarotene)?
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References
Best studies we foundAndrus, E. (2024). Trifarotene yields significant improvements in post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Dermatology Times.
Callender, V. D., et al. (2021). Effects of topical retinoids on acne and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in patients with skin of color: A clinical review and implications for practice. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology.
Galderma Laboratories, L. P. (2024). Aklief- trifarotene cream [package insert]. DailyMed.
Pradhan, S. J., et al. (2024). Retinoids — A unique ingredient for skin rejuvenation employing novel drug delivery systems. Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Science.
Tan, J., et al. (2019). Randomized phase 3 evaluation of trifarotene 50 μg/g cream treatment of moderate facial and truncal acne. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology.
Zasada, M., et al. (2019). Retinoids: Active molecules influencing skin structure formation in cosmetic and dermatological treatments. Advances in Dermatology and Allergology.
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