Acne? What you need to know about Trifarotene

Acne is a problem that many people face, regardless of age, right? Especially at a young age, there are times when acne can be frustrating. Sometimes, even after trying many things, it doesn't get better. So when you go to see a doctor, he may have examined your skin and prescribed you a cream containing a drug called Trifarotene. This name may be new to you. So today, let's talk about what this drug is, how exactly it is used, and what things to be careful about.

Simply put, what is Trifarotene?

Trifarotene is a medication used to treat acne. It belongs to a class of medications called retinoids . You may have heard of the term retinoid. Simply put, these are compounds derived from vitamin A. They can control the way our skin cells grow and how they die and are shed. The main cause of acne is the accumulation of dead skin cells and oil that clog pores. So what Trifarotene does is to regulate the rate at which skin cells renew themselves and stop those pores from getting clogged.

This medicine comes in the form of a cream, applied to the skin. It is not recommended to drink it at any time. In Sri Lanka, this medicine can be found under the brand name AKLIEF. But it can be available under any name prescribed by the doctor. The most important thing is not to use this without the advice of a doctor.

Things you need to tell your doctor before using this medicine:

No matter what medication you are prescribed, it is important to give your doctor a complete account of your health. Especially before using a medication like Trifarotene, be sure to tell them about the following:

How exactly do you use this medicine?

To get the most out of this medicine, it is very important to use it correctly. Follow the doctor's instructions exactly.

1. For skin use only: This is for external use only . Do not put in mouth or drink.

2. Wash your hands: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap before and after applying the medicine.

3. Avoid contact with eyes: Avoid contact with sensitive areas such as the eyes, lips, and inside the nostrils. If you accidentally get it in your eyes, immediately rinse thoroughly with clean water for several minutes.

4. Apply a thin layer: Apply a very thin layer only to the areas of acne that the doctor has prescribed (face, chest, back). Applying too much can cause more dryness and redness of the skin.

5. Use at the right time: Use at the same time every day (usually at night), as directed by your doctor.

6. Don't stop taking the medication halfway: Don't stop taking the medication without your doctor's advice, even if your acne has subsided a little. It's important to complete the prescribed course.

Is this good for young children?

Doctors usually prescribe this medicine for acne in children over the age of 9. But it should only be done under the supervision of a doctor.

What to do if you take too much medicine?

Since this is a topical medication, serious harm from overuse is rare. However, the skin may become very red, inflamed, or peel. If anyone accidentally takes this medication, immediately call the National Poisons Information Center at the Colombo National Hospital . Or take them to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.

What if I forget to take my medicine one day?

Take your medicine as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take it as usual at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose.

What other things should not be used with this medicine?

When you use Trifarotene, it may interact with some other medications or cosmetics, so tell your doctor about everything you use.

Things to be especially careful about when using the medicine

• Protect yourself from the sun: This is the most important thing. When you apply this medicine, your skin will become very sensitive to sunlight (photosensitive). This means that your skin may turn red and burn more quickly than it would normally.
• Use a good sunscreen every time you go outside.
• Cover your skin with a hat and long-sleeved clothing as much as possible.
• Do not intentionally expose yourself to the sun (sun lamps, tanning beds).
• Be gentle with your skin: Avoid using harsh soaps or abrasive cleaners when washing your skin. Use a gentle cleanser.
• Use a moisturizer: To reduce skin dryness, ask your doctor for a good moisturizer to use during the day.
• Be patient: This medicine won't cure acne right away. It may take a few weeks or a month or two to see results. So be patient and continue using it.

What are the possible side effects?

Like all medicines, Trifarotene can cause some side effects, although not everybody gets them.

How should I store the medicine?

• Keep away from children and pets.
• Store at room temperature (between 20-25 degrees Celsius). Protect from extreme heat or extreme cold.
• This medicine is flammable, so keep it away from open flames, stoves, and cigarette smoke.

How do I dispose of expired or unwanted medication?

Do not use expired medications. The safest way to dispose of them is to consult your doctor or pharmacist. If that is not possible, remove the medication from the tube, mix it with something like used tea leaves, coffee grounds, or soil, put it in a bag, seal it, and throw it in the trash. Never flush it down the toilet.