Tacrolimus Ointment 0.1%
Tacrolimus Ointment 0.1%
Product Description
Glenmark Pharma Tacrolimus Ointment 0.1% is a prescription-strength, steroid-free topical treatment for moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (eczema). As a topical calcineurin inhibitor, it calms the overactive immune response that drives eczema flares โ and because it doesn't thin the skin like steroids, it is often chosen for delicate areas such as the face and eyelids. It is a second-line therapy intended for use under a doctor's supervision when other prescription treatments have failed or are not advisable. Prescription only (Rx).
โจ Texture & Feel
Targets the Cause of Flares
Blocks calcineurin to calm the overactive T-cells that drive eczema inflammation, rather than only soothing symptoms on the surface.
Steroid-Free
No risk of skin thinning (atrophy), so under medical guidance it can be used on delicate areas like the face and eyelids where long-term steroids aren't advisable.
Bioequivalent Generic
Glenmark's formulation was studied for therapeutic equivalence to the brand Protopic 0.1% in moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis.
Second-Line Therapy
Indicated when other prescription treatments have failed or are not advisable. Designed for short-term and intermittent use under a doctor's care.
๐ก๏ธ Safety & Compatibility
Rare cases of skin cancer and lymphoma have been reported with topical calcineurin inhibitors. A causal link is not established, but use only as prescribed โ a thin layer, short-term, and not continuously over the long term.
Topical absorption is low, but use only if clearly needed and approved by your doctor. Do not apply to the breast area while nursing.
Do not apply over active bacterial, viral (e.g. cold sores, chickenpox) or fungal skin infections, as it suppresses the local immune response.
Minimize sunlight and UV exposure during treatment. Burning, itching or facial flushing (especially after alcohol) is common, particularly in the first few days.
Unlike topical steroids, it does not cause skin atrophy, making it suitable for thin and delicate skin under medical guidance.
Requires a prescription. The 0.1% strength is for adults and adolescents 16+; it is not for children under 2. Immunocompromised patients should not use it.
๐ฌ Ingredient Breakdown
๐งฌ Tacrolimus (Limus) 0.1% Proven
The active ingredient โ a topical calcineurin inhibitor. It binds the protein FKBP-12 and blocks calcineurin, which stops the T-cell activation and cytokine release that fuel eczema inflammation.
- FDA: Approved as second-line therapy for moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis.
- Clinical study: Glenmark's 0.1% generic was evaluated for therapeutic equivalence to Protopic 0.1%.
- Evidence reviews: Found 0.1% effective for eczema, with no clear evidence of increased skin-cancer or skin-thinning risk, though long-term data remain limited.
๐ก๏ธ White Petrolatum & Paraffin Base Occlusive
The anhydrous ointment base. These occlusive emollients seal in moisture and carry the active into the skin, supporting a damaged eczema barrier.
- Function: Vehicle, emollient and occlusive.
- Note: Petrolatum rates low on the comedogenic scale, but feels greasy on the skin.
๐ง Paraffinum Liquidum (Mineral Oil) Base Emollient
Light mineral oil that softens the ointment and helps spread the active evenly across affected skin.
- Function: Emollient and solvent within the base.
โ๏ธ Propylene Carbonate Solvent Carrier
A solvent that helps dissolve and stabilise tacrolimus within the ointment so the active is delivered consistently.
- Function: Solvent and penetration carrier.
6 ingredients
Active: Tacrolimus (Limus) 0.1%. Inactive: Paraffinum Liquidum (Mineral Oil), Paraffin, Propylene Carbonate, Petrolatum (White Petrolatum), White Wax. (The SkinSort listing for this item also references "Palau White Clay"; the FDA-approved formula lists white wax.)
๐ Where It Fits in Your Routine
Apply a thin layer to affected skin only, twice daily. Wash your hands afterward (unless treating the hands), let it absorb before layering an emollient, and always use daily sun protection โ this medicine increases sun sensitivity.
๐ How to Use
Cleanse & Dry
Wash the affected area with a gentle cleanser and pat it completely dry before applying.
Apply a Thin Layer
Apply twice daily to affected skin only โ not to healthy skin. Use the smallest amount that covers the area.
Rub In & Wash Hands
Rub in gently and completely, then wash your hands โ unless your hands are the area being treated.
Protect From Sun
Avoid prolonged sunlight, sunlamps and tanning beds. A temporary burning or itching sensation in the first days is common.
Reassess at 6 Weeks
Stop when symptoms clear and do not use continuously long-term. If there's no improvement after 6 weeks, see your doctor.
๐ค Who Is It For?
โ Perfect for you if:
- You have moderate-to-severe eczema that hasn't responded to other prescription treatments
- You need a steroid-free option for the face, eyelids or skin folds
- You want to avoid the skin-thinning risk of long-term topical steroids
- You're an adult or adolescent diagnosed by a clinician (0.1% strength)
โ Consider alternatives if:
- You have a weakened immune system
- The area has an active bacterial, viral or fungal infection
- You're under 2 years old (not approved)
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding without doctor approval
- You're looking for an over-the-counter cosmetic โ this is prescription only
๐ฏ Skin Type Compatibility
Its core indication โ calms the inflammation that drives eczema flares at the source.
Steroid-free, so it suits thin, delicate areas where long-term steroids are risky.
Effective, but a transient burning or stinging sensation is common in the first few days.
Contraindicated over active bacterial, viral or fungal infections.
Not a cosmetic โ it is a prescription medicine for diagnosed eczema only.
๐ Results Timeline
Application-Site Reaction
Warmth, burning, itching or flushing where applied is the most common early effect, and is usually temporary.
Most common early effectEarly Relief
Many users report visibly reduced redness and itch within days as the burning sensation settles.
56% report positive results (Drugs.com)Clearance for Responders
Inflammation and itch often resolve over several weeks. Reassess with your doctor at 6 weeks if there's no improvement.
Stop use when clearโญ Ratings by Platform
โ๏ธ Pros & Cons
โ Praised
- Steroid-free โ no skin thinning, suitable for face and eyelids under guidance
- Effective on stubborn eczema that steroids couldn't control
- Works quickly for many users (often within days)
- Generic โ typically far cheaper than brand-name Protopic
โ Criticized
- Burning or stinging in the first days is very common
- Prescription required โ not available over the counter
- Carries an FDA boxed warning (rare malignancy reports)
- Increases sun sensitivity; alcohol can trigger flushing
- Greasy ointment texture; not for infected skin or under-2s
๐ฐ Therapeutic Alternatives (Prescription Required)
The other topical calcineurin inhibitor. A lighter cream that often causes less burning, but is generally used for mild-to-moderate eczema. Requires a prescription and a doctor's guidance.
A steroid-free PDE4 inhibitor for mild-to-moderate eczema. Different mechanism and no boxed warning, but generally less potent for severe cases. Prescription required.
Fast and widely used as first-line therapy, but carry a risk of skin thinning with long-term use, especially on the face. Not interchangeable โ use only under medical guidance.
๐ Comparison with Competitors
Glenmark Tacrolimus 0.1% (Featured)
Rx ยท GenericProtopic 0.1% (Brand)
Rx ยท BrandElidel (Pimecrolimus 1%)
RxTopical Corticosteroid
Rx / OTC๐ฆ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months โ but always follow the expiry/discard date printed on the tube and carton.
Store at room temperature (15โ30ยฐC / 59โ86ยฐF), away from heat. Keep the tube tightly closed and out of children's reach.
Sealed laminate/aluminium tube (commonly 10g, 30g or 60g).
Yes โ compact tube. Carry it in its labeled box with the prescription.
โ Frequently Asked Questions
Caution. Absorption through the skin is low, but it should be used during pregnancy only if your doctor decides the benefit outweighs the risk โ systemic tacrolimus has been linked to newborn issues. While breastfeeding, do not apply it to the breast area. Always confirm with your doctor before use.
This is a prescription eczema medicine rather than a cosmetic, so the "fungal-acne-safe" framework doesn't really apply. More importantly, it must not be used on skin with an active fungal (or bacterial/viral) infection, because it suppresses the local immune response. If you suspect any skin infection, speak to your doctor first.
There's no formal cosmetic-layering guidance because it's a medication, not a serum. Don't combine other actives on the same treated area without your doctor's advice โ irritation can worsen the burning sensation. Apply tacrolimus to affected skin only, and keep harsh actives away from those areas.
It's best for people with diagnosed moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (eczema) โ especially on the face and eyelids โ who haven't responded adequately to other treatments. It is not intended for healthy skin or cosmetic use.
Many people notice reduced itch and redness within the first week, with fuller improvement over 1โ6 weeks. If there's no improvement after 6 weeks, see your doctor to reconfirm the diagnosis. A temporary burning sensation early on is common and usually settles.
After cleansing and drying, use it as a treatment step on affected areas only, twice daily. Wash your hands afterward, let it absorb before applying an emollient, and use SPF during the day since it increases sun sensitivity.
The petrolatum-based vehicle is low on the comedogenic scale (about 1/5), so clogging is not a primary concern. That said, this is a medicine for eczema, not a moisturiser โ use it only on affected skin as prescribed, not all over the face.
Follow the discard/expiry date printed on the tube and carton โ commonly within about 12 months. Store it at room temperature with the tube tightly closed, and do not use it past its expiry date.
Verdict: For the right candidate โ someone with stubborn, steroid-resistant or facial eczema โ Glenmark Pharma's Tacrolimus Ointment 0.1% is a genuinely valuable, steroid-free option that treats the cause of flares without thinning the skin. Patient ratings are solid but mixed (around 6.5/10 on Drugs.com), largely because of the temporary burning many people feel in the first few days. It is a prescription medicine with an FDA boxed warning, so it should be used only under a doctor's guidance โ short-term and on affected skin, not as an everyday cosmetic.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skinโs own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging ยซpromisesยป it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Limus
Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Paraffinum Liquidum
Emollient, Skin Protecting, Solvent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Paraffin
Emollient, Fragrance, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Skin-Conditioning Agent - Occlusive
|
|
|
| 1 |
Propylene Carbonate
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 4 |
Petrolatum
Emollient, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Uv Absorber, Moisturising, Skin-Conditioning Agent - Occlusive
|
|