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Tri-Luma vs. Retin-A

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Tri-Luma

 

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Retin-A

(tretinoin)

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Summary for Tri-Luma

Prescription only

Tri-Luma is a cream that's used to treat adults with melasma, or dark skin patches, on the face. The cream contains three active ingredients: fluocinolone (a steroid to lessen inflammation); hydroquinone (a melanin synthesis inhibitor to lighten skin color); and tretinoin (a retinoid to help with new skin growth). You apply Tri-Luma onto the dark patches on the face once a day, but side effects like skin redness and burning are common. It can take about 1 to 2 months to see results after you start treatment. Tri-Luma isn't approved to treat areas of hyperpigmentation that isn't related to melasma.

Indications for Tri-Luma

Pros and Cons for Tri-Luma

Pros

  • Only need to apply once a day
  • Easier to use a combination cream instead of two or three separate medications

Cons

  • Might take 1 to 2 months to see results
  • No lower-cost generic available

Common Side Effects for Tri-Luma

  • Skin redness (41%)
  • Skin peeling or flaking (38%)
  • Burning sensation on the skin (18%)
  • Dry skin (14%)
  • Itchy skin (11%)

Warnings for Tri-Luma

  • Allergic reaction
  • Blue-black darkening of the skin
  • Change in adrenal hormone levels
  • Skin irritation and other skin reactions

Summary for Retin-A

Prescription only

Retin-A (tretinoin) is a retinoid medication that's used to treat acne in adults and children 12 years and older. It's available as a cream or a gel that's applied onto the skin once a day. Side effects include skin irritation, redness, and peeling. Your acne might get worse at the beginning of treatment, but it should get better as you continue using the medication. You must have a prescription for Retin-A (tretinoin) from your primary care provider or dermatologist; this medication isn't available over the counter.

Indications for Retin-A

  • Acne

Pros and Cons for Retin-A

Pros

  • Easy to apply onto your skin
  • Only need to apply once nightly
  • Available in a lower-cost generic form

Cons

  • Makes your skin more sensitive to sunlight, which can lead to sunburns
  • Can cause your skin color to temporarily become lighter or darker
  • Might worsen your acne during the first few weeks of treatment

Common Side Effects for Retin-A

  • Skin peeling or discomfort
  • Warm feeling or stinging after applying
  • Skin redness
  • Sensitivity to sunlight (sunburns)
  • Worsening of acne in the first few weeks of treatment

Warnings for Retin-A

  • Sunburns
  • Skin irritation in extreme weather
  • Skin reactions

Prices with our coupons for Tri-Luma vs. Retin-A

Price Card Drug Icon
Tri-Luma1 tube / 30g of 0.05%
$227.92$294.71
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Price Card Drug Icon
Tretinoin1 tube / 45g of 0.025%
$35.83$287.44
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