Tri-Luma Cream

Tri-Luma Cream: product summary

Tri-Luma Cream is a topical combination of fluocinolone acetonide 0.01%, hydroquinone 4% and tretinoin 0.05%. It is used in the management of dark spots associated with moderate-to-severe facial melasma. UV protection, including sunscreen and protective clothing, is important during use.

Tri-Luma Cream is a prescription-only medicine in the UK. Internationally manufactured stock is sold through an international retail model. Check the rules where you live, including import requirements, and speak to a pharmacist or doctor before use, especially if pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding. The expiry is 02/2027.

See related hydroquinone products and tretinoin products, and read our guide to tretinoin and hydroquinone.

Last updated: November 2026.

Key facts

Course length and use limits

• The US label limits Tri-Luma to short-term use, up to 8 weeks. It is not for long-term or continuous maintenance use.
• Melasma usually returns after stopping, so sun avoidance, sunscreen and protective clothing stay important.
• It contains a corticosteroid. Reported effects of corticosteroids on the skin include skin thinning, stretch marks, acne, inflammation around the mouth and skin infection. Tiny visible blood vessels (telangiectasia) have also been reported.
• Hydroquinone may cause exogenous ochronosis, a gradual blue-black darkening of the skin. Stop and contact your doctor if this happens. The label says most reported cases are in Black patients, and that it also occurs in other groups.
• It contains tretinoin, which the label says may harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy.
• The Galderma US label lists sodium metabisulfite, which can cause allergic-type reactions in susceptible people, including severe asthma attacks. Check your pack's ingredients.
• Keep it away from the eyes, nose and corners of the mouth. Stop and contact your doctor for blistering, crusting, or severe burning or swelling.

Source: US prescribing information for Tri-Luma Cream (Galderma), revised January 2013. This is a non-UK label and our pack may be a different maker's product with the same stated strengths, so follow the label on your pack and your clinician's advice.

How it is generally used

Use this combination only after a pharmacist or doctor has confirmed the treatment plan. The steps below are general handling information and do not replace individual directions.

1. Read the label and use the cream only for the area and duration advised by your clinician.
2. Clean and dry the affected area before applying the smallest amount directed in a thin layer.
3. Avoid the eyes, lips, nostrils and broken or irritated skin.
4. Wash your hands after application unless your hands are the treatment area.
5. Use UV protection, such as sunscreen and protective clothing, during the day.
6. Stop and seek advice if severe irritation, swelling or another concerning reaction develops.

Do not add other strong pigmentation, exfoliating or irritating products without professional advice. Keep the tube closed and follow the storage instructions on the packaging.

Who should speak to a clinician first

Speak to a pharmacist or doctor before using Tri-Luma Cream, especially if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding. Professional advice is also important if your skin is damaged or irritated, you use other pigmentation products, or you are unsure whether the dark patches are melasma. A clinician can advise whether it suits your circumstances.

Frequently asked questions

What is Tri-Luma Cream used for?

Tri-Luma Cream is used in the management of dark spots associated with moderate-to-severe facial melasma. It contains three active ingredients: fluocinolone acetonide, hydroquinone and tretinoin. A pharmacist or doctor should confirm the diagnosis and intended treatment plan before use because not every pigmentation concern is melasma. A clinician should confirm that this is the right treatment for you.

What are the active ingredients in Tri-Luma Cream?

The combination contains fluocinolone acetonide at 0.01%, hydroquinone at 4% and tretinoin at 0.05%. Follow the prescribed instructions and avoid adding other strong products without professional advice, because the appropriate routine depends on your treatment plan and skin. Do not apply it to damaged or irritated skin, or continue beyond the period advised by a clinician.

How should Tri-Luma Cream be applied?

Apply it only as directed by a clinician. In general, clean and dry the area, use a thin layer, avoid the eyes, lips, nostrils and broken skin, then wash your hands. UV protection is important while using the cream. Stop and seek advice for severe irritation or swelling.

Can Tri-Luma Cream be used during pregnancy?

The US label says Tri-Luma contains tretinoin, which may harm an unborn baby, and that it should be used in pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the risk. Speak to a pharmacist or doctor before use if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding. Do not start, stop or change a treatment plan without discussing it with a qualified clinician.

What should I know about Tri-Luma Cream in the UK?

Tri-Luma Cream is a prescription-only medicine in the UK, and the expiry shown for this product is 02/2027. The stock is internationally manufactured and sold through an international retail model. Check local rules, including import requirements, and obtain professional advice before ordering or use.

Product information is not medical advice. Tri-Luma Cream is a prescription-only medicine in the UK. Internationally manufactured stock is sold through an international retail model. Check the rules where you live, including import requirements, and speak to a pharmacist or doctor before use, especially if pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding.

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