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Aklief
Used for Acne
Used for Acne
Aklief (trifarotene) is used to treat acne in people ages 9 years and older. It's a prescription retinoid cream. Aklief (trifarotene) is applied directly to the affected area(s) once each evening. Common side effects include dry skin, peeling, and itching. Your skin might get more irritated during the first month of treatment before your acne starts to get better.
What is Aklief (trifarotene)?
What is Aklief (trifarotene) used for?
- 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's thought to help unclog your skin pores in a few ways.
The medication helps remove dead skin cells and replaces them with new, healthy ones. It also helps lower skin inflammation that usually happens with acne. This helps treat acne and pimples on areas of the body, including the face, chest, shoulders, or back.
When does Aklief (trifarotene) start working?Time passed since treatment started:
Drug facts
| Common Brands | Aklief |
|---|---|
| Drug Class | Retinoid |
| Controlled Substance Classification | Not a controlled medication |
| Generic Status | No lower-cost generic available |
| Availability | Prescription only |
More on Aklief (trifarotene) essentials
Side effects of Aklief (trifarotene)
The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.
Common Side Effects
- Irritation where it's applied (8%)
- Sunburn (3%)
- Itchiness where it's applied (2%)
Less Common Side Effects
- Pain where it's applied
- Dry skin
- Changes in skin color
- Skin rash
- Swelling where it's applied
- Skin blisters or sores where it's applied
- Skin redness
- Worsening of acne
When do Aklief (trifarotene) possible side effects begin and end?
Time passed since treatment started:
H
D
W
M
Skin irritation
Skin pain (burning or stinging)
Dry skin
Skin redness
The following Aklief (trifarotene) 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
Get your GoodRx coupon
$927.42
GoodRx discount
$693.04
Pros and cons of Aklief (trifarotene)
Pros
- Comes in an easy-to-use pump
- Only need to use once per day
- Can treat acne on many areas of the body (the face, chest, shoulders, and back)
- Safe to use for children ages 9 years and older
Cons
- Can take a few weeks to see your skin improving
- Can cause skin redness, dryness, peeling, or stinging
- Skin might look worse during the first month of treatment
- Can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, which can lead to sunburns
Pharmacist tips for Aklief (trifarotene)
- How to use Aklief (trifarotene): Apply once a day in the evening. Gently wash the affected skin with a mild cleanser and water, and pat dry. Then, use enough medication to apply a thin layer of the cream over the affected skin. Afterwards, wash your hands well to prevent getting the medication anywhere else.
- Applying Aklief (trifarotene) on your face: You only need 1 pump of medication. Be careful not to get it in or around your eyes, mouth, or the corners of your nose because it can be irritating.
- Applying Aklief (trifarotene) on your upper back, shoulders, or chest: Use 2 pumps. Use another pump for the middle and lower back, if needed.
- Don't apply Aklief (trifarotene) onto cuts, scrapes, areas with eczema, or sunburned or damaged skin. Also don't apply it into your vagina. This can cause irritation.
- It's normal for your skin to get red or dry, peel, or sting where you apply Aklief (trifarotene). These side effects are usually worse during the first month and often get better over time. But talk to your care team if these skin reactions become severe or bother you too much.
- Use a gentle moisturizer and sunscreen every day while using Aklief (trifarotene). A moisturizer can help with dry, irritated skin. The medication can also make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing to help prevent sunburn.
- Avoid harsh skin products while using Aklief (trifarotene). Don't use medicated soaps, cleansers, shampoos, or other products that can irritate or dry your skin. This includes skin care products that contain alcohol. Ask your pharmacist or dermatologist about products that are safe to use with Aklief (trifarotene).
- Don't wax the skin treated with Aklief (trifarotene). Waxing can cause more irritation and possible skin damage.
- Ask your dermatologist before using Aklief (trifarotene) with other acne treatments. Some can be used together with Aklief (trifarotene). But they might cause more skin irritation.
- If you're breastfeeding: Avoid applying Aklief (trifarotene) directly to the nipple area. Use it on the smallest area needed for the shortest time possible. This helps prevent your baby from getting exposed to the medication.
- Store Aklief (trifarotene) at room temperature away from heat. Keep it tightly closed and out of reach of children.
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 dryness, redness, stinging, or burning. This is usually worse during the first month of treatment. But it should get better over time as you continue to use the medication.
Be sure to use a gentle, non-medicated moisturizer to help prevent irritation. Don't apply Aklief (trifarotene) to cuts, scrapes, burns, or skin with eczema. Also avoid waxing areas where you use the medication since this can irritate the skin more.
If your skin irritation is severe or bothers you a lot, talk to your prescriber. They might tell you to use Aklief (trifarotene) less often or stop using it for a short time until your skin heals.
Sunburn
Aklief (trifarotene) can make your skin become more sensitive to sunlight and other sources of ultraviolet (UV) light. This can raise your risk of getting sunburns.
Try to limit your time in the sun or find shade when you can. Be sure to use sunscreen and wear protective clothing, like hats or long sleeves, when you're outside. Avoid tanning beds and sun lamps while using Aklief (trifarotene).
Aklief (trifarotene) dosage
The average cost for 1 pump of 45g of 0.005% of Aklief (trifarotene) is $693.04 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 25.27% off the average retail price of $927.42. 
Cream pump
Cream pump| Dosage | Quantity | Price as low as | Price per unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 45g of 0.005% | 1 pump | $693.04 | $693.04 |
How much does Aklief (trifarotene) cost?
To access savings, use a GoodRx coupon and pay just a fraction of the retail price.
Aklief (brand)
$693.04
What are alternatives to Aklief (trifarotene)?
There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Aklief (trifarotene). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
