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Triamcinolone Acetonide Cream USP, 0.1%

Triamcinolone Acetonide Cream USP, 0.1%

Product Description

Product overview

Made in Various INTERNATIONAL

A prescription-strength medium-potency topical corticosteroid cream containing 0.1% triamcinolone acetonide in a washable cream base. Clinically indicated for the relief of inflammatory and pruritic manifestations of eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, and other corticosteroid-responsive skin conditions. Applied as a thin film 2–3 times daily to affected areas as directed by your healthcare provider.

Prescription (Rx Only) FDA-Approved Medium-Potency Steroid Fragrance-Free Generic Available Washable Cream Base Paraben-Free
Pregnancy
Caution
Fungal Acne
No
Comedogenic
3/5
Type
Rx Corticosteroid
Strength
0.1% (1 mg/g)
Potency
Medium (Class IV)
Sizes
15g / 80g / 454g
Manufacturer
Padagis (Israel)
Why it's different

Anti-Inflammatory Action

Triamcinolone acetonide reduces redness, swelling, and irritation by suppressing the release of inflammatory chemicals in the skin. Classified as a medium-potency topical steroid (US Class IV).

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Smooth cream
Scent
Fragrance-free
Absorption
1–2 minutes
Finish
Matte to natural

Anti-Inflammatory Action

Triamcinolone acetonide reduces redness, swelling, and irritation by suppressing the release of inflammatory chemicals in the skin. Classified as a medium-potency topical steroid (US Class IV).

Anti-Pruritic Relief

Rapidly calms intense itching associated with eczema flares, contact dermatitis, allergic reactions, and other corticosteroid-responsive conditions.

Washable Cream Base

The oil-in-water emulsion base spreads easily on affected skin, is non-greasy, and washes off cleanly with water. Contains glycerin and propylene glycol for additional moisture.

Vasoconstrictive Properties

Constricts blood vessels in the treated area, helping reduce visible redness and the feeling of warmth that accompanies inflammatory skin flares.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

FDA Pregnancy Category C. Animal studies have shown teratogenic effects. Should not be used extensively, in large amounts, or for prolonged periods during pregnancy. Not known if excreted in breast milk — avoid applying to breast area before nursing.

Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Safety

Not fungal acne safe. Contains isopropyl palmitate (fatty acid ester), polysorbate 60, sorbitan monostearate, and cetyl esters wax — all of which can feed Malassezia yeast and potentially worsen fungal acne.

Long-Term Use Risks

Prolonged use may cause skin thinning (atrophy), stretch marks, telangiectasia, or HPA axis suppression. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration. Children are more susceptible to systemic absorption.

Sensitive Areas

Avoid use on the face, eyelids, groin, and underarms unless specifically directed by a physician. These thin-skinned areas absorb more medication and are at higher risk for side effects.

Fragrance-Free Formula

Contains no added fragrances or dyes. Free from parabens, sulfates, and harsh alcohols. Less likely to cause irritant reactions in sensitive or compromised skin.

Prescription Required

This is a prescription-only medication (Rx). Use only as directed by your healthcare provider. Do not share with others or use for conditions it was not prescribed for.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Triamcinolone Acetonide 0.1%Proven

A synthetic fluorinated corticosteroid that acts as the primary active ingredient. It reduces inflammation, itching, and redness by suppressing the immune response in the skin and constricting local blood vessels.

  • Classification: Medium-potency topical corticosteroid (US Class IV)
  • Mechanism: Inhibits phospholipase A2, reducing prostaglandin and leukotriene synthesis
  • Molecular Weight: 434.50 g/mol (C₂₄H₃₁FO₆)
  • Clinical Use: FDA-approved for eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, and corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses
Use only as prescribed. Avoid prolonged use without medical supervision. Do not use on infected skin, open wounds, or areas with active viral/fungal infections.

Glycerin HumectantProven

A naturally occurring humectant that draws moisture from the environment and deeper skin layers to hydrate the stratum corneum. A 2016 study found glycerin to be more effective than AHAs and hyaluronic acid as a humectant.

  • Function: Humectant and skin-conditioning agent
  • Benefit: Helps maintain skin hydration in the cream base, reducing dryness associated with corticosteroid use

Propylene Glycol Solvent/HumectantProven

A small-molecule humectant and penetration enhancer that helps the active ingredient absorb more effectively into the skin. Also acts as a solvent and preservative booster in the formulation.

  • Function: Solvent, humectant, and penetration enhancer
  • Note: Generally well-tolerated, but may cause mild irritation in individuals with propylene glycol sensitivity

Cetyl Alcohol EmollientProven

A fatty alcohol (not a drying alcohol) that acts as an emollient and emulsion stabilizer. Helps soften and smooth the skin while giving the cream its pleasant, spreadable texture.

  • Function: Emollient, emulsifier, and thickening agent
  • Safety: Non-irritating and FDA-approved for "alcohol-free" labeling — not the same as denatured or ethyl alcohol

Sorbic Acid PreservativeProven

A gentle, food-grade preservative also found in baked goods, cheeses, and dried fruits. Prevents microbial growth in the cream to ensure shelf stability and safety.

  • Function: Antimicrobial preservative
  • Safety: Well-tolerated and widely used in both food and pharmaceutical products

11 ingredients

Active: Triamcinolone Acetonide 0.1%. Inactive: Cetyl Alcohol, Cetyl Esters Wax (Candelilla Wax Esters), Glycerin, Glyceryl Monostearate, Isopropyl Palmitate, Polysorbate 60, Propylene Glycol, Purified Water, Sorbic Acid, Sorbitan Monostearate.

FREE FROM: Fragrances, Parabens, Sulfates, Harsh Alcohols, Dyes, Silicones, Common Allergens, Oils
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
Gentle Cleanser
2
Pat Dry
3
This Cream
4
Wait 10–15 min
5
Moisturizer
6
Sunscreen (AM)

Apply a thin film to clean, dry affected areas 2–3 times daily as directed by your physician. Allow the cream to absorb before applying moisturizer or sunscreen on top.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Cleanse the Affected Area

Gently wash the affected skin with a mild, fragrance-free cleanser and lukewarm water. Pat dry thoroughly — do not rub.

2

Apply a Thin Film

Squeeze a small amount of cream onto your fingertip. Apply sparingly in a thin layer only to the affected area. Rub in gently until the cream disappears.

3

Wash Hands After Application

Unless you are treating the skin on your hands, always wash your hands immediately after application to avoid accidentally transferring the medication to eyes, mouth, or other sensitive areas.

4

Do Not Cover Unless Directed

Do not bandage, wrap, or cover the treated area with occlusive dressings unless your doctor specifically instructs you to do so, as this can increase systemic absorption.

5

Follow Your Prescribed Schedule

Apply 2–3 times daily as prescribed. Use the lowest effective amount for the shortest duration needed. Do not use more frequently or for longer than directed.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You have a prescription for eczema, contact dermatitis, or psoriasis flares
  • OTC hydrocortisone has not been strong enough for your condition
  • You need a medium-potency corticosteroid for body skin (arms, legs, trunk)
  • You prefer a washable cream base over greasy ointments
  • You experience itching, redness, or inflammation from corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses

Consider alternatives if:

  • You need treatment for the face, eyelids, or groin (lower potency steroids preferred)
  • You have an active fungal, bacterial, or viral skin infection
  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding (consult physician first)
  • You have fungal acne / Malassezia folliculitis (formula is not FA-safe)
  • You need long-term daily steroid therapy (ask about steroid-sparing alternatives)
  • You have a known hypersensitivity to triamcinolone or any inactive ingredients
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Dry / Eczema-Prone Skin
Excellent

Highly effective for eczema flares. The cream base with glycerin and propylene glycol provides additional hydration. Follow with a thick moisturizer to lock in barrier repair.

Oily Skin
Good

Cream base is lighter than ointment versions. Contains isopropyl palmitate which may feel slightly rich on very oily skin — apply sparingly to affected areas only.

Combination Skin
Excellent

Works well as a targeted spot treatment on inflamed patches. The washable base won't leave a greasy residue on surrounding healthy skin.

Sensitive Skin
Good

Fragrance-free and paraben-free formulation. However, as a corticosteroid, prolonged use on sensitive areas can cause thinning. Use only as directed by your doctor.

Acne-Prone Skin
Moderate

Contains isopropyl palmitate (comedogenic rating 4) and polysorbate 60. Not ideal for acne-prone areas. Not fungal acne safe. Use only on prescribed dermatitis-affected areas.

08

Results timeline

WEEKS 1–2
Within Hours

Immediate Itch Relief

Most users report a noticeable soothing effect and reduction in itching within the first few applications. Redness may begin to diminish as the vasoconstrictive action takes effect.

75% noticed itch relief within 24 hours
Days 1–3

Visible Redness Reduction

Inflammation begins to subside visibly. Swelling decreases and skin starts to feel calmer. Many users report significant improvement in appearance of rashes and dermatitis patches.

70% noticed visible improvement
Days 3–7

Significant Clearing

Major reduction in inflammation, scaling, and itching for most corticosteroid-responsive conditions. Eczema patches flatten and become less scaly. Many users experience near-complete clearing.

65% reported significant clearing
Weeks 1–2

Full Resolution (Many Cases)

Most acute flares resolve within 1–2 weeks of consistent use. Your doctor will typically re-evaluate at this point to determine whether to continue, taper, or switch treatments.

60% achieved full resolution of flare
09

Ratings by platform

664+ REVIEWS
Drugs.com
7.8/10
Rating
110+
Reviews
Main complaint: Symptoms return after discontinuation; not a long-term cure for chronic conditions
WebMD
4.0/5
Rating
303+
Reviews
Main complaint: Some users report skin thinning or worsening with prolonged use on sensitive areas
Drugs.com (Eczema)
7.1/10
Rating
21+
Reviews
Main complaint: Cream formulation may irritate open or weeping skin (ointment preferred for very dry patches)
GoodRx / PatientsLikeMe
7.8/10
Rating
230+
Reviews
Main complaint: 71% positive experience, but some report it works only temporarily
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Fast-acting relief — many users see improvement within hours to days
  • Highly effective for eczema, dermatitis, and psoriasis flares
  • Fragrance-free, paraben-free, and well-tolerated by most users
  • Washable cream base is non-greasy and easy to apply
  • Very affordable, especially with insurance ($1–$5 copay typical)
  • Available in multiple sizes (15g tube to 454g jar) for different needs
  • Decades of clinical use and safety data backing the active ingredient

Criticized

  • Not a cure — symptoms often return after discontinuation
  • Prolonged use can cause skin thinning, stretch marks, and other side effects
  • Not suitable for facial use or sensitive skin folds without close medical supervision
  • Cream formulation can sting on open or severely cracked skin
  • Contains ingredients that are not fungal acne safe
  • Children are at higher risk for systemic absorption and side effects
  • Some users report mood changes or anxiety with extensive use
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
85% Match
Hydrocortisone Cream 1% (OTC)
$5–$8
Budget Pick

Lower potency (Class VII vs. Class IV) — best for mild inflammation on sensitive areas like the face and skin folds. No prescription required. Won't work for moderate-severe flares.

70% Match
CeraVe Hydrocortisone Anti-Itch Cream 1%
$10–$14
Budget Pick

OTC low-potency steroid combined with ceramides for barrier repair. Better for mild irritation and maintenance. Not strong enough for active eczema or psoriasis flares that require prescription steroids.

65% Match
Maximum Strength 1% Hydrocortisone Anti-Itch Creme with Aloe
$7–$12
Budget Pick

Maximum OTC steroid strength with added aloe. Closest non-prescription substitute, but significantly less potent than triamcinolone 0.1%. Best for minor rashes and bug bites.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE

Betamethasone Dipropionate Cream 0.05%

Active Ingredient Betamethasone Dipropionate 0.05%
Potency Class High (Class II–III)
Prescription Rx Required
Formulation Cream / Ointment
Best For Severe / refractory dermatoses
Trade-Off Higher risk of skin thinning

Mometasone Furoate Cream 0.1%

Active Ingredient Mometasone Furoate 0.1%
Potency Class Medium-High (Class III)
Prescription Rx Required
Formulation Cream / Ointment / Lotion
Best For Once-daily application (more convenient)
Trade-Off Slightly more potent; typically more expensive

Hydrocortisone Cream 2.5% (Rx)

Active Ingredient Hydrocortisone 2.5%
Potency Class Low (Class VII)
Prescription Rx Required
Formulation Cream / Ointment / Lotion
Best For Face, groin, skin folds (safer for delicate areas)
Trade-Off Less effective for moderate-severe flares
13

Storage & shelf life

24 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

Use by expiration date on packaging. Typically stable for 24 months unopened; use within prescribed treatment period after opening.

Storage

Store at 20°–25°C (68°–77°F). Excursions permitted to 15°–30°C (59°–86°F). Avoid excessive heat. Protect from freezing.

Packaging

Aluminum tube (15g, 80g) or jar (454g). Dispense in a well-closed container.

Travel Friendly

Yes — 15g and 80g tubes are under 100ml/3.4oz TSA limit. Store in a cool place during travel.

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

Triamcinolone acetonide is FDA Pregnancy Category C. Animal studies have shown teratogenic effects (including cleft palate) at doses equivalent to human doses. There are no adequate well-controlled studies in pregnant humans. It should not be used extensively, in large amounts, or for prolonged periods during pregnancy. It is not known whether topical triamcinolone is excreted in human breast milk. Do not apply to the breast area before breastfeeding. Always consult your physician before using this medication if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

No, this cream is not fungal acne safe. The formulation contains several ingredients that can feed Malassezia yeast, including isopropyl palmitate (a fatty acid ester), polysorbate 60, sorbitan monostearate, and cetyl esters wax. If you have Malassezia folliculitis (fungal acne), discuss alternative treatments with your dermatologist.

It is generally advisable to avoid using retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, or BHAs on the same area of skin where you are applying triamcinolone acetonide cream. These active ingredients can increase irritation and compromise the skin barrier, potentially worsening the condition you are treating. If you use these actives in your routine, apply them to unaffected areas only, or ask your dermatologist about timing and layering strategies.

This cream is best for individuals with dry, eczema-prone, or combination skin experiencing inflammatory flares on the body (arms, legs, trunk). It works across all skin types for its prescribed indications. However, those with acne-prone skin should be cautious as the base contains comedogenic ingredients like isopropyl palmitate. The cream formulation is lighter than the ointment version, making it more comfortable for oilier skin types.

Most users report itch relief within hours of the first application. Visible reduction in redness and inflammation typically occurs within 1–3 days. Significant clearing of eczema, dermatitis, or psoriasis flares is commonly seen within 3–7 days. Full resolution of acute flares generally occurs within 1–2 weeks. If you see no improvement after 2 weeks, contact your prescriber for re-evaluation.

Apply to clean, dry skin after cleansing and before moisturizer. The recommended routine order is: (1) gentle cleanser, (2) pat dry, (3) apply triamcinolone cream to affected areas only, (4) wait 10–15 minutes for absorption, (5) apply moisturizer over top, (6) apply sunscreen in the morning. Do not mix with other active treatments on the same area unless directed by your doctor.

The formulation has a moderate comedogenic risk (rated approximately 3/5) primarily due to isopropyl palmitate, which has a comedogenic rating of 4/5 on its own. Cetyl alcohol and the wax esters also contribute. While this cream is designed for short-term therapeutic use on inflamed skin rather than daily cosmetic use, those with acne-prone skin should apply only to affected areas and avoid broad application to acne-prone zones.

Use by the expiration date printed on the tube or packaging. The product is typically stable for up to 24 months from manufacture when stored at controlled room temperature (20°–25°C / 68°–77°F). Avoid excessive heat and protect from freezing. If the cream changes color, consistency, or develops an unusual odor, discard it and obtain a fresh prescription.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.0 / 5 ★★★★☆

Verdict: Triamcinolone Acetonide Cream USP 0.1% by Padagis is a highly effective, FDA-approved medium-potency topical corticosteroid that serves as a reliable workhorse for treating eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, and other inflammatory skin conditions on the body. With a 7.8/10 average rating on Drugs.com and 71% positive reviews, it delivers fast itch relief and visible clearing — often within days. Its fragrance-free, paraben-free cream base is easy to apply and non-greasy. The main caveats are that it is not a long-term solution (symptoms may recur after discontinuation), not safe for fungal acne, requires a prescription, and should be used for the shortest duration necessary to minimize side effects like skin thinning. For moderate inflammatory flares on the body, it remains one of the most trusted and affordable options available.

Product Overview

question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb 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 «promises» 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.

muscle 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

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

brightening Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Glycerin
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
Glycerin
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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!

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Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
1 1
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
60% 20% 20%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 10 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
1 A
Cetyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Fragrance, Opacifying, Emulsifying, Surfactant, Foam Boosting, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Masking, Viscosity Controlling
0 Unknown
Candelilla Wax Esters
2 A
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
brightening Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
1 A
Glyceryl Stearate
Emollient, Emulsifying
1 B
Isopropyl Palmitate
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Perfuming, Emollient, Fragrance, Antistatic Agent, Binding Agent, Binding, Masking
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS