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Selgamis
Akne

Selgamis

Modern topical retinoid with trifarotene – targeted against acne on the body and face.

Prescription required
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What is Selgamis?

Selgamis is a prescription-only cream containing the active ingredient trifarotene, a latest-generation topical retinoid. It is specifically approved for the treatment of acne on the face AND the trunk (chest, shoulders, back).

Trifarotene is a selective RAR-gamma agonist. Retinoic acid receptor gamma is the most common receptor found in the skin and plays a central role in skin renewal. Through targeted activation of this receptor, trifarotene acts against acne.

Selgamis is applied once daily in the evening and is approved for adults and adolescents aged 12 years and older.

Active Ingredients & Mechanism of Action

Active ingredient: Trifaroten 50 µg/g

Trifarotene acts as a selective retinoid receptor agonist:

Mechanism of action: 1. Selective activation of the RAR-gamma receptor 2. RAR-gamma is the predominant retinoid receptor in the skin 3. Normalizes keratinization (cornification) 4. Anti-inflammatory effect

Effects:

  • Loosens existing comedones (blackheads)
  • Prevents new comedones
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Promotes skin renewal

Who is it suitable for?

Selgamis is suitable for:

  • Acne vulgaris on the face
  • Acne on the trunk (chest, back, shoulders)
  • Adults and adolescents aged 12 years and older
  • Comedones and inflammatory acne

Particular advantage:

  • Approved for body acne

Not suitable:

  • Severe nodular/cystic acne
  • Pregnancy or planned pregnancy

Available Dosages

Selgamis Cream 50 µg/g:

  • Apply thinly once daily in the evening
  • To all affected areas (face and/or trunk)
  • Duration of treatment: at least 12 weeks

Application area:

  • Face: pea-sized amount
  • Trunk: appropriate amount depending on the area

Dosage form and pack sizes

The medicines catalogue lists one pack variant: one strength in one pack size.

Dosage form
Creme
Strengths
50 µg/g
Pack sizes
75 g
StrengthPackPZN
50 µg/g75 g16397376

Packs listed in the German medicines catalogue. Which of them are currently available and what they cost is shown in the price overview.

The Pharmazentralnummer (PZN) is the nationwide unique identifier of a pack in Germany.

How to Take

Application: 1. In the evening, cleanse the skin and let it dry thoroughly 2. Apply a thin layer to all affected areas 3. Do not apply only to individual pimples, but over the whole area 4. Let it absorb, wash your hands

Important notes:

  • Use only in the evening (photosensitization!)
  • Use SPF 30+ sun protection during the day
  • At the start, the acne may temporarily get worse (purging)
  • Do not use together with irritating products (peels, alcohols)

Contraindications

Do not use in case of:

  • Pregnancy (teratogenic!)
  • Hypersensitivity to trifarotene or any of the ingredients

Caution in case of:

  • Sensitive skin
  • Eczema or dermatitis in the treatment area
  • Strong sun exposure
  • Breastfeeding: a risk to the breastfed child cannot be ruled out. Decide together with your doctor whether to interrupt breastfeeding or to forgo treatment. Do not apply to the breasts or the chest area.

Pregnancy: CONTRAINDICATED! Effective contraception is necessary. Do not use if you are planning a pregnancy. If you become pregnant during use, treatment must be stopped.

Possible Side Effects

Very common (>10%):

  • Skin irritation (redness, scaling, dryness, burning) – at the start of treatment, usually improves

Common (1-10%):

  • Itching
  • Sunburn (with insufficient sun protection)

Uncommon:

  • Contact dermatitis
  • Skin swelling

Note: The initial skin irritation ("retinization reaction") is very common and usually improves after 2-4 weeks. Using a moisturizer from the start of treatment can reduce the risk of this irritation. If needed, the cream can be applied less often or its use can be paused temporarily. If severe reactions persist despite this, treatment may have to be stopped.

Interactions

Interactions:

  • Other topical retinoids – do not use at the same time
  • Irritating cosmetics (peels, AHA, BHA) – combine with caution

No relevant systemic interaction: Trifarotene has minimal systemic absorption.

Frequently Asked Questions

Trifarotene is a selective RAR-gamma agonist, whereas tretinoin and adapalene act less selectively. In addition, trifarotene is approved for body acne.

In the first weeks, the acne may seem to get worse. This is because the retinoid brings hidden comedones to the surface. This is normal and not a reason to stop using it. The skin usually improves after 4-8 weeks.

Yes, that is actually a particular advantage of Selgamis! It is explicitly approved for the treatment of acne on the trunk (back, chest, shoulders).

Similar Medications

Is Selgamis right for you?

A licensed doctor will review your information and issue a prescription if suitable. Discreet and secure.

Important Notice

This information does not replace medical advice. If you have questions about your health or the suitability of this medication, please consult a doctor or pharmacist.

Important Safety Information

This service operates under German pharmaceutical law (HWG). For risks and side effects, read the package leaflet and consult your doctor or pharmacist. All medications are dispensed from a licensed pharmacy in Germany.

Selgamis (Trifarotene): Use & Dosage | deinrezept