Key takeaways
Tri-Luma (fluocinolone / hydroquinone / tretinoin) and hydroquinone cream are both topical medications used to treat skin discoloration, specifically melasma and other forms of hyperpigmentation. While they share the use of hydroquinone as a melanin synthesis inhibitor, Tri-Luma is a combination medication that also includes fluocinolone, a corticosteroid, and tretinoin, a retinoid, making it unique in its multi-faceted approach to treating melasma. Tri-Luma is applied once daily, whereas hydroquinone cream is typically applied twice daily. Tri-Luma is specifically FDA-approved for melasma, while hydroquinone cream is used more broadly for hyperpigmentation. Tri-Luma must be refrigerated, while hydroquinone cream can be stored at room temperature. Common side effects of Tri-Luma include skin redness and burning, while hydroquinone cream may cause skin dryness and stinging. Both medications can cause blue-black skin discoloration, especially in Black individuals, and require sun protection during use. Hydroquinone cream is available as a lower-cost generic, whereas Tri-Luma does not have a generic version.
