Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin
About
Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin is a skin-related medication primarily used to treat melasma (dark brown patch on skin). Melasma also known as chloasma or mask of pregnancy, is a common skin condition that causes brown patches on the face. It is more common in women than in men. The discolored (grey-brown) patches occur mainly on the forehead, chin, nose and cheeks.
Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin contains three medicines, namely: Hydroquinone (skin lightening or bleaching agent), Allantoin (moisturizing agent) and Tretinoin (a form of Vitamin A or retinoids). Hydroquinone belongs to the class of skin-lightening agents that works by decreasing the amount of melanin (a skin pigment) that is responsible for the darkening of the skin. Allantoin is a moisturizing agent that works by forming an oily layer on the top of the skin that traps in the water. Thereby moisturizing the outermost layer of skin and makes it smoother and softer. Also, it breaks down a protein known as keratin (that forms part of skin structure) and removes dead skin cells and softens skin. Tretinoin belongs to the class of retinoids (man-made vitamin A) that works by increasing the renewal of skin cells, which helps in the natural exfoliation of the skin’s outer layers.
Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin is only for external use. Use Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin as prescribed by the doctor. Avoid contact of Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin with nose, mouth, eyes, ears or vagina. Do not apply on a cut, open wound or burned skin area. In case Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin comes in contact with these areas accidentally, rinse with water thoroughly. Some people may experience skin peeling, stinging sensation, erythema (skin redness), and burning sensation at the site of application. Most of these side effects of Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin do not require medical attention and gradually resolve over time. However, if the side effects persist or worsen, please consult your doctor.
If you are allergic to Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin or any other medicines, please tell your doctor. If you are pregnant, nursing mother or planning for pregnancy, it is advised to consult a doctor before using Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin. Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin is not recommended for children below 12 years of age. Do not apply Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin on ulcerated skin or wounds. Avoid sun exposure while using Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin as it may make the skin more sensitive to sunlight and cause sunburn. Wear protective clothing and use sunscreen while going out to protect your skin from sunburn. Do not cover or wrap the treated area with a bandage unless advised by your doctor. Avoid smoking or going near naked flames as the fabric (bedding, clothing, dressings) that is in contact with Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin catches fire and burns easily.
Uses of Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin
Medicinal Benefits
Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin is a combination of three drugs, namely: Hydroquinone, Allantoin, and Tretinoin. Hydroquinone belongs to the class of skin-lightening agents that works by decreasing the amount of melanin (a skin pigment) that is responsible for the darkening of the skin. Allantoin is a moisturizing agent that forms an oily layer on the top of the skin, which traps in the water. Thereby moisturizing the outermost layer of skin and making it smoother and softer. Also, it breaks down a protein known as keratin (that forms part of skin structure) and removes dead skin cells and softens skin. Tretinoin belongs to the class of retinoids (man-made vitamin A) that works by increasing the renewal of skin cells, which helps in the natural exfoliation of the skin’s outer layers. Also, tretinoin loosens the cells on the skin’s surface and unblocks pores by reducing oil production in the skin. Thereby decreasing pimples, whiteheads, and blackheads.
Directions for Use
Storage
Side Effects of Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin
- Skin peeling
- Stinging sensation
- Mild itching
- Erythema (skin redness)
- Burning sensation at the site of application
- Changes in colour of treated skin
In-Depth Precautions and Warning
Drug Warnings
If you are allergic to Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin or any other medicines, please tell your doctor. If you are pregnant, a nursing mother or planning for pregnancy, it is advised to consult a doctor before using Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin. Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin is not recommended for children below 12 years of age. Do not apply Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin on ulcerated skin or wounds. Avoid sun exposure while using Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin as it may make the skin more sensitive to sunlight and cause sunburn. Do not cover or wrap the treated area with a bandage unless advised by your doctor. Avoid smoking or going near naked flames as the fabric (bedding, clothing, dressings) that is in contact with Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin catches fire and burns easily. If you have a sulfite allergy, asthma, liver or kidney disease, eczema (itchy, swelling of the skin) or any other skin condition, inform your doctor before taking Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin. Also, inform your doctor about all your ongoing medications, including prescription and non-prescription medications. Speak to your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after using Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin for 2 months. Avoid applying Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin on lips or inside nose or mouth as Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin may cause numbness in these areas. Stop using Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin and contact your doctor immediately if you have severe skin redness, burning, stinging, blue or black discolouration of the skin, severe skin dryness, cracking or bleeding.
Drug Interactions
Drug-Drug Interaction: Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin may interact with photosensitizing agents (aminolevulinic acid, porfirmer, verteporfin), topical antibiotics (benzoyl peroxide), retinoids (isotretinoin), antiseptic (resorcinol), keratolytic agents (salicylic acid, sulfur).
Drug-Food Interaction: No interactions found.
Drug-Disease Interaction: Sulfite allergy, asthma, eczema (itchy, swelling of the skin) or any other skin condition, liver or kidney disease.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
cautionInteraction of alcohol with Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin is unknown. Please consult a doctor before consuming alcohol while using Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin.
Pregnancy
cautionThe safety of Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin in pregnant women is unknown and is given to a pregnant woman only if the doctor thinks benefits outweigh risks.
Breast Feeding
cautionIt is unknown whether Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin is excreted in human milk. Please consult a doctor before using Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin while breastfeeding.
Driving
safe if prescribedAllantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin usually does not affect your ability to drive or operate machinery.
Liver
cautionIf you have any concerns regarding the use of Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin in patients with liver problems, please consult a doctor.
Kidney
cautionIf you have any concerns regarding the use of Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin in patients with kidney problems, please consult a doctor.
Children
unsafeAllantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin is not recommended for children below 12 years of age, as the safety and effectiveness were not established.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
- Avoid sun exposure while using Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin as it may make the skin more sensitive to sunlight and cause sunburn. Wear protective clothing and use sunscreen while going out to protect your skin from sunburn.
- Regular exercise can improve your mood and self-esteem though it doesn’t clear spots. Take a shower immediately after finishing the exercise.
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face from sun exposure.
- Avoid using skin products that cause irritation, such as skin cleansers or shampoos, harsh soaps, hair removers or waxes, hair colours or permanent chemicals, and skin products with astringents, lime, spices or alcohol.
Special Advise
- Avoid using Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin for more than 6-8 weeks without a doctor’s advice.
- Please consult a dermatologist if the skin condition does not improve after 2 months of treatment with Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin.
- Do not take Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin by mouth. Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin is for use only on the skin (topical use). Accidently if Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin gets in your eyes or mouth, immediately rinse with cold water.
- Do not take Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin if you allergic sulfa containing medicines and have asthma. It is better to contact a doctor in these conditions and take Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin.
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Melasma: It is also known as chloasma, a common skin condition that causes brown patches on the face. The discoloured (grey-brown) patches occur mainly on the forehead, chin, nose and cheeks. Melasma may be caused due to sun exposure, hormone therapy, pregnancy, birth control pills, thyroid or even stress. It is more common in women than in men. It may occur in pregnant women due to hormonal changes during pregnancy and is called a ‘mask of pregnancy’ and fades away after pregnancy on its own or after stopping the usage of contraceptive pills. It can be treated using skin-lightening creams, topical steroids, dermabrasion or chemical peels.
FAQs
Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin contains Hydroquinone, Allantoin and Tretinoin. Hydroquinone is a skin lightening agent that works by decreasing the amount of melanin (a skin pigment) that is responsible for the darkening of the skin. Allantoin is a moisturizing agent that works by forming an oily layer on the top of the skin which traps in the water. Thereby, moisturizes the outermost layer of skin and makes it smoother and softer. Tretinoin belongs to the class of retinoids (man-made vitamin A) that works by increasing the renewal of skin cells which helps in natural exfoliation of skin’s outer layers.
Yes, Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin may increase the skin sensitivity to sunlight in the treated areas. Therefore, avoid or limit exposure to sunlight and sunlamps. You are advised to use a sunscreen and wear protective clothing while going out to prevent sunburn.
Yes, Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin may cause skin irritation, burning sensation or itching at the site of application in rare cases. However, if the irritation persists or worsens, stop using Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin and consult a doctor.
You are advised to use moisturizer in the morning every day to restore fat barrier of the skin that protects the skin from damage. Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin may make the skin more sensitive to extreme weather conditions such as cold and wind. Therefore, wear protective clothing and use moisturizer as required. However, please consult a doctor before using moisturizing lotions or any other products with Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin.
You are not recommended to use Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin with benzoyl peroxide, hydrogen peroxide or any other peroxide products as it may cause staining of the skin which can be usually removed with soap and water. However, please consult a doctor before using other medicines with Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin.
You are recommended to use Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin for as long as your doctor has prescribed it. However, avoid using Allantoin+hydroquinone+tretinoin for more than 6 to 8 weeks without doctor’s advice.
Hormonal contraceptives like oral/vaginal birth control pills, injections, implants, skin patches and vaginal rings can cause melasma to get worse. So, it is advisable to ask your doctor about using non-hormonal birth control (condom, diaphragm with spermicide) instead.
