Instructions for Using Triamcinolone Topical

Apply triamcinolone acetonide cream/ointment to the affected area two to three times daily, rubbing in gently. 1

General Application Guidelines

Apply a thin layer of triamcinolone to the affected area, using the minimum effective amount to control symptoms 2
For most dermatological conditions, apply 2-3 times daily unless otherwise directed by a healthcare provider 1
Wash hands before and after application unless treating the hands 2
Continue treatment until clinical improvement is observed, then consider reducing frequency to maintenance therapy 2

Apply a thin layer directly to clean, dry affected skin 1
Use the fingertip unit method (the amount of cream/ointment from the tip of an adult finger to the first crease) to measure appropriate amounts 2
Gently rub into the skin until the medication disappears 1

For recalcitrant conditions like psoriasis, occlusive dressings may enhance effectiveness 1
Apply a thin coating of medication to the lesion 1
Cover with pliable nonporous film and seal the edges 1
Additional moisture may be provided by:
- Covering with a dampened clean cotton cloth before applying the nonporous film 1
- Briefly wetting the affected area with water before applying medication 1
Apply for 12 hours (typically overnight), remove in the morning, and reapply without occlusion during the day 1
Discontinue occlusive dressing if infection develops and initiate appropriate antimicrobial therapy 1

Use with caution on facial skin as it is thinner and more prone to steroid-induced atrophy 2
Consider lower potency formulations or shorter duration of treatment for facial application 2

Apply sparingly to skin folds and intertriginous areas to minimize risk of atrophy 3
Monitor closely for adverse effects in these sensitive areas 3

Once control is achieved, consider reducing to twice weekly application for maintenance therapy 2
Gradual reduction in frequency helps prevent rebound flares while minimizing adverse effects 2

Regular follow-up is recommended to assess response and monitor for potential adverse effects 2
Watch for signs of skin atrophy, telangiectasia, and pigmentary changes with long-term use 2
Consider periodic breaks in treatment or switching to steroid-sparing agents for long-term management 2
Discontinue or reduce frequency if adverse effects occur 3

Common local skin adverse effects include skin atrophy, striae, folliculitis, telangiectasia, and purpura 3
May exacerbate acne, rosacea, perioral dermatitis, or tinea infections 3
Abrupt withdrawal may cause rebound flares in some conditions 3

For intralesional treatment of resistant lesions (e.g., in lichen sclerosus), triamcinolone (10-20 mg/mL) may be injected by a healthcare provider 3
For alopecia areata, intralesional injections of triamcinolone acetonide (5-10 mg/mL) may be administered into affected areas 3