✅ Active Ingredient Overview Table:

🔬 Active Ingredients:	Fluocinolone Acetonide 0.01% w/w, Hydroquinone 4% w/w, Tretinoin 0.05% w/w
💊 Indication:	Melasma (Hyperpigmentation), Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation
🇺🇸 US Brand Equivalent:	Tri-Luma (Fluocinolone/Hydroquinone/Tretinoin)
🏭 Manufacturer:	Galderma India Pvt Ltd (Founded: 2014)
📦 Packaging:	15 g Tube
🧪 Strengths:	Fluocinolone 0.01%, Hydroquinone 4%, Tretinoin 0.05%
🚚 Delivery Time:	6–15 days

🌿 What is Tri-Luma Cream?

Tri-Luma Cream is a fixed-dose combination topical therapy combining a corticosteroid (Fluocinolone Acetonide), a pigment-inhibitor (Hydroquinone), and a retinoid (Tretinoin). This triple-action formulation synergistically addresses melasma and other forms of facial hyperpigmentation by:
• Inhibiting melanin synthesis via Hydroquinone’s tyrosinase blockade.
• Accelerating epidermal turnover through Tretinoin’s retinoid action.
• Reducing inflammation with Fluocinolone, minimizing irritation and redness caused by the other two components.

Use of Tri-Luma leads to a faster, more pronounced lightening effect compared to monotherapy, with improved tolerability thanks to the low-potency corticosteroid.

🧬 Pharmacology & Mechanism of Action

Component	Mechanism
Fluocinolone Acetonide	• Low-potency corticosteroid binds to glucocorticoid receptors → downregulates inflammatory cytokines (IL-1, TNF-α) → reduces erythema and irritation caused by retinoids/hydroquinone.
Hydroquinone (4%)	• Inhibits tyrosinase enzyme → decreases conversion of DOPA to melanin → lightens hyperpigmented lesions.
• Causes gradual skin lightening over weeks with consistent use.
Tretinoin (0.05%)	• Retinoic acid receptor agonist → normalizes keratinocyte differentiation → increases epidermal turnover → promotes dispersion of melanin and improves penetration of hydroquinone.
• Exhibits mild anti-inflammatory properties at low concentration.
Cream Base	• Emollient, non-comedogenic ointment base → ensures hydration, enhances drug penetration, and minimizes potential dryness or peeling.

💡 Indications & Application Guidelines

Condition	Application Regimen
Melasma (Epidermal/ Mixed)	• Cleanse face with gentle, non-alkaline cleanser; pat dry.
• Apply a pea-sized amount of Tri-Luma Cream once daily at bedtime to affected areas, avoiding eyes, lips, and nasal folds.
• Duration: Use for 8–12 weeks; assess response and consider maintenance therapy afterward.
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)	• Clean area gently; apply thin layer of cream once at bedtime.
• Duration: Continue for 8 weeks or until pigment improves; evaluate need for further therapy.

Preparation: Use sunscreen (SPF ≥30) during the day; avoid sun exposure to prevent worsening pigmentation.
Application: Dispense a small amount; spread uniformly over pigmented lesions.
Precautions: Start with alternate-night application if skin sensitivity is high. Use a mild moisturizer to lessen dryness.
Discontinuation: Stop if severe irritation or allergic reaction occurs; treat with mild emollients and consider corticosteroid taper.

⚠️ Warnings & Side Effects

Common:

Mild burning or stinging on application
Transient erythema or dryness
Peeling or flaking of treated skin

Less Common:

Hypopigmentation of adjacent normal skin (if used excessively)
Contact dermatitis or allergic reaction (erythema, itching)

Serious (Rare):

Exogenous ochronosis (dark blue-black pigmentation) with prolonged hydroquinone use
Skin atrophy, telangiectasia if corticosteroid used beyond recommended duration
Photosensitivity reactions; risk of sunburn if sun protection inadequate

Precautions:

Pregnancy & Lactation: Contraindicated; retinoids are teratogenic. Female patients of childbearing potential must use effective contraception.
Sunlight/UV Exposure: Essential to apply broad-spectrum sunscreen daily; reapply every 2 hours when outdoors.
Avoid Use on Broken Skin: Do not apply to open wounds or active dermatitis.
Monitor for Exogenous Ochronosis: Limit hydroquinone use to ≤4 months to reduce risk; evaluate skin monthly.
Discontinue if Irritation Severe: Use emollients or switch to milder pigment lighteners if intolerable.

🏥 Storage Instructions

Store Tri-Luma Cream at 20–25°C (68–77°F) in a dry place. Protect from direct sunlight. Keep tube tightly closed. Discard 6 months after opening. Keep out of reach of children.

🌐 Availability & Purchasing

United States: Prescription only; Tri-Luma available through dermatologists.
United Kingdom & EU: Prescription required; combination hyperpigmentation creams exist under specialist guidance.
Australia: Schedule 4 prescription item; import allowed under TGA prescription with monitoring.

Importing from India:
Purchasing Tri-Luma Cream from India may lower treatment costs. Ensure valid prescription, comply with local import regulations, and verify authenticity to avoid customs issues.

🔗 Authoritative Resources

🔗 Related Topical Therapies (Indian Brands)

Candid B Lotion – Clotrimazole/Beclometasone for inflammatory fungal dermatoses.
Acnesol A Nano Gel – Adapalene/Clindamycin for acne.

🎥 Educational Video on Triple-Therapy for Melasma

👩‍⚕️ Expert Insight: Dr. Alka Verma, Dermatologist

“Tri-Luma Cream’s unique combination accelerates pigment reduction by targeting melanin production, distribution, and inflammation. It is crucial to limit duration to avoid ochronosis and maintain strict sun protection to prevent relapse.”