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Tri-Luma vs. Retin-A

Tri-Luma is a cream that's used for melasma, a condition that causes dark patches on the face. It contains three active ingredients: fluocinolone (a steroid), hydroquinone (a melanin synthesis inhibitor), and tretinoin (a retinoid). They help lessen skin inflammation, lighten the skin, and promote new skin growth to help improve skin appearance. Tri-Luma is applied 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 of treatment to see results. Tri-Luma is only approved for adults. It's not approved to treat hyperpigmentation due to other reasons.

• Melasma of the face

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

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

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.

• Acne

• 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

• Sunburns
• Skin irritation in extreme weather
• Skin reactions