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Fluocinolone-Hydroq.-TretinoinPronounced"FLOO-oh-SIN-oh-lone/tret-ih-NO-in/hi-dro-KWIN-own" UsesThis combination medication is used to treat melasma on the face. Melasma is a condition of dark patchy areas on the skin, especially on the cheeks and forehead. It sometimes occurs with hormone changes. This product contains 3 different kinds of medication. Hydroquinone is a reversible skin bleaching agent. Tretinoin is a retinoid that increases skin shedding. Fluocinolone is a medium strength corticosteroid that reduces swelling, itching, and redness. This medication may improve your melasma, but it is not a cure. Continued exposure to some of the causes of melasma (such as sunlight, estrogen-type birth control hormones) may cause it to return. How to Use This MedicationRead the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start using this product and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Before using, apply a small amount of this medicine to an area of unbroken skin, and check the area within 24 hours for any serious side effects. If the test area is itching, red, puffy, or blistering, do not use this product and contact your doctor. If there is just mild redness, then treatment with this product may begin. Before using, gently wash your face and neck with a mild soapless cleanser. Rinse and pat dry the skin. Apply a thin layer of medication to the affected area, including about 1/2 inch (1.5 centimeters) of normal-appearing skin around the affected area as directed by your doctor, usually once daily 30 minutes before bedtime. Rub the medication into the skin gently and completely. Do not bandage, cover, or wrap the area unless directed to do so by your doctor. This medication may make the treated areas of skin more sensitive to the sun. Avoid prolonged sun exposure, tanning booths, and sunlamps. Use a sunscreen of SPF 30 or greater and wear protective clothing on the treated areas of skin when outdoors, even on cloudy or hazy days. If you experience dry skin from using this product, you may use a skin moisturizer in the morning after washing your face. You may also use a moisturizer and cosmetics during the day while using this medication. Avoid getting this product in your eyes or on the inside of your nose or mouth. If you do get this medication in those areas, flush with plenty of water. If severe irritation occurs, seek medical attention promptly. Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time each night. It may take up to 4 weeks to notice significant improvement. However, this medication is not recommended for long-term use (such as longer than 8 weeks) without stopping the medication for short periods. Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse after 4 weeks of treatment. |