Where should you not use triamcinolone acetonide cream?
You should not use topical corticosteroids like triamcinolone acetonide cream on your face, groin, genitals (private parts) or axillae (underarm, armpit) unless directed by your doctor. Using triamcinolone in these areas may lead to unwanted side effects like acne, prominent blood vessels, skin thinning (atrophy), changes in skin color or unwanted hair growth.
Topical steroid medicines like triamcinolone are still very strong medicines even though they are applied to the skin. They can cause side effects on your skin and also be absorbed through your skin into your bloodstream and cause side effects.
Greater absorption can occur in areas with thinner skin or skin folds where skin rubs against skin. Areas in your groin or the underarms have skin folds which can increase absorption of the medicine and cause worsening of side effects. The skin around the face and eyes is very thin and more at risk for side effects.
- Up to 7% of a steroid cream can be absorbed into your bloodstream from the face and up to 30% if applied to the eyelids or genital region.
- Side effects are also more likely to occur if the area is covered with an occlusive dressing (such as a bandage or wrap) or with extensive or long-term use of high-strength steroids.
- Inflamed skin or areas with open wounds or sores may also cause greater absorption of the medicine into your bloodstream. Only apply to an infected skin area if directed by your doctor, as corticosteroids may inhibit healing if the area is infected.
Follow your doctor’s instructions exactly for applying this medicine. If your child is using this medicine, follow your doctor's instructions very carefully. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any side effect that concerns you.
This is not a complete list of side effects or warnings. Review the full triamcinolone product information and discuss with your doctor.
Related: Triamcinolone side effects (in more detail)
What other products could you use for these areas?
You should seek advice from your doctor when using any topical steroid on your face, groin, genital area or axillae (underarm or armpit), even low potency or over-the-counter products. Which corticosteroid is recommended by your doctor depends on the skin condition, the area being treated and the expected length of treatment.
- Low-potency topical steroids are generally considered the safest agents to use on the face or areas of the body with thinner skin. The lowest potency topical steroid available on the U.S. market is topical hydrocortisone 0.5% or 1%, which is available over-the-counter (OTC). Higher strengths require a prescription.
- Highly potent corticosteroids are generally not used in facial, groin or skin fold (intertriginous) areas. If needed, your doctor may select a lower potency topical corticosteroid to be used only for a limited period of time.
For example, some lower strength forms of topical steroids may be appropriate to use on the face for conditions such as dermatitis for a limited period of time, but should only be used if recommended by your doctor.
- Higher potency topical corticosteroids should not be used on the face due to the risk of side effects like skin thinning, visible broken capillaries (telangiectasia), and striae (lines on the face).
- If your skin condition is severe, covers an extensive area of your face, or involves the eyelids, your doctor may decide to prescribe a faster-acting oral medicine like prednisone instead of a topical cream.
Topical triamcinolone acetonide is a prescription corticosteroid skin medicine available in various strengths ranging from low potency (0.025%) to a medium-high potency (0.5%). It is available for application to the skin as an ointment, cream, lotion and topical spray.
It is used to treat the redness, swelling or itching caused by several conditions such as allergic reactions, eczema, and psoriasis. Brands names for triamcinolone include:
It is also available generically as a lotion, cream and ointment, which may be more affordable for you.
Topical corticosteroids work by preventing the release of substances in the body that cause inflammation and pain, redness, and itching.
This is not all the information you need to know about topical triamcinolone acetonide for safe and effective use and does not replace your doctor's instructions. Always review the full product information and discuss this information with your doctor or other health care provider.
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References
- Goldstein B, Goldstein A (authors). Topical corticosteroids: Use and adverse effects. Up to Date. Accessed June 12, 2023 at https://www.uptodate.com/contents/topical-corticosteroids-use-and-adverse-effects
- Topical Corticosteroids: Face Facts. MedSafe. Accessed June 12, 2023 at https://www.medsafe.govt.nz/profs/puarticles/steroidface.htm
- Patient education: Topical corticosteroid medicines (The Basics). Up to Date. Accessed June 12, 2023 at https://www.uptodate.com/contents/topical-corticosteroid-medicines-the-basics
- Brod B (author). Management of allergic contact dermatitis. Up to Date. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/management-of-allergic-contact-dermatitis
- Ference JD, Last AR. Choosing topical corticosteroids. Am Fam Physician. 2009 Jan 15;79(2):135-40. PMID: 19178066.
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