Request a prescription for hydroquinone online

Response time: 1-2 working days

Board-certified dermatologists
Service available in all 50 states
Choice of generic or customized formulas

Hydroquinone cream for hyperpigmentation displayed with a woman applying skin treatment and a Foothills Pharmacy bottle.

Medically reviewed by:
Dr. Eric Howell
Dermatologist

What is hydroquinone?

Hydroquinone is a skin-lightening ingredient that usually comes in 2% and 4% concentration and it addresses melasma, hyperpigmentation in and dark spots in the skin caused by hormonal changes, sun damage, acne, and skin acne¹.

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A seamless teledermatology + pharmacy experience

Miiskin has now partnered with Foothills Pharmacy, a leading compounding pharmacy, to make prescription skin care effortless.

Now, when your dermatologist prescribes treatment via Miiskin, you can choose Foothills as your pharmacy and order your medication via the Miiskin platform. They will send a payment link and after payment is completed, your medication will be delivered for free shipping.

Most customized Foothills formulas are $48.99, with a few advanced formulas priced at $58.99 and some hair care formulas priced at $68.99.

Oral medications from Foothills typically cost between $24.99 – $38.99, based on the pill count your clinician prescribes (30, 60, 90, or 120 pills).

Important Disclaimer: Compounded medications are not reviewed by the FDA for safety or efficacy.

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What is hydroquinone cream used for?

Hydroquinone is used to lighten dark spots on the skin.

Melasma

Age spots/sun spots

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation

Evening skin tone

Freckles (small, brown spots caused by sun exposure and genetics)

Hyperpigmented acne scars

Hydroquinone brands

Tri-Luma
Triderma
Lustra
Melquin
Solaquin
Melanex

How to buy hydroquinone online?

Do you need a prescription to buy hydroquinone cream?

Yes, hydroquinone creams are not available over-the-counter. You need a doctor’s prescription to buy hydroquinone online

How to get a hydroquinone prescription online?

Start a consultation with an online dermatologist through Miiskin. Consultation price is $59 and medication renewals for existing patients are around $30.

Where to buy hydroquinone?

If you are interested in getting a customized hydroquinone formula, select Foothills as your preferred pharmacy. Most Foothills formulas are $48.99.

If you want a standard medication, select any local or online pharmacy.

Important Disclaimer: Compounded medications are not reviewed by the FDA for safety or efficacy.

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How to request a hydroquinone cream prescription online

Select “Start consultation” to sign-up with Miiskin.
Use the consultation form to request hydroquinone.
If medically appropriate, you will receive a prescription from a dermatologist.
Purchase your hydroquinone in the pharmacy of your choice.

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Process to getting a prescription for hydroquinone online
Through an online consultation, you connect with a dermatologist. Upon reviewing your case, if the doctor determines that a cream with hydroquinone is appropriate for you, they will provide a prescription that you can get from the pharmacy of your choosing.

How is hydroquinone different from other creams for hyperpigmentation?

Hydroquinone is a topical skin-lightening agent that is different from other creams for hyperpigmentation in several ways.

Mechanism of action

Hydroquinone works by inhibiting the activity of tyrosinase, which in turn helps lighten dark spots and even out skin tone.

among the most effective lightening agents for the skin

More potency

Hydroquinone is the most potent skin-lightening agents available. It can address stubborn or severe cases of hyperpigmentation.

Can only be used for a limited time

The use of hydroquinone cream is limited to a maximum of 3 months at a time and should only be done under strict medical supervision.

Availability

Hydroquinone cream is only available only with a doctor’s prescription. Some other skin-lightening ingredients are available over-the-counter

Hydroquinone benefits

Inhibits the production of melanin²
Very effective at treating melasma and hyperpigmentation³
Delivers consistent skin lightening results⁴
Offered as combination cream for improved results

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What patients say about Miiskin

Very happy with this service. Quick and easy. With someone with not the greatest insurance and super busy. This was perfect. Got my prescription next day and great advice for my condition.

Marcus Liniarski,
Patient Review →

I had a great experience with Miiskin – I was able to get my prescription very quickly and their app is easy to use. It was very convenient and their team is very responsive. I highly recommend them and will likely use them in the future for other skin issues.

Susie Tse,
Patient Review →

What a technology! I was very impressed by the speed of communication with a doctor using the Miiskin app. Losing my hair has been my biggest concern, but I didn’t have the courage to reveal my bald spot to a doctor in person. Miiskin solved all my issues instantly. I just took a photo in my own room, uploaded it, and wrote about my concerns. That’s it. The best part is that without insurance, the consultation fee was much lower than any health insurance. I submitted my photo at midnight and received a prescription the very next morning. The doctor at Miiskin was very professional and empathetic, which really helped ease my emotional distress. Although I’m just at the beginning stage of my treatment and haven’t seen significant results yet, I feel reassured and supported. I will definitely upload my progress in 3 to 4 months to show my appreciation for the prescription from Miiskin.

Jiyeon Kang,
Patient Review →

My dermatologist was extremely quick, reviewed my consultation request within 2hrs and I had my Rx the next day! The Miiskin team also responds within minutes and are very polite and communicated concisely. I’ll never make a in person appointment again after experiencing this outstanding and affordable telehealth service!

Dion H,
Patient Review →

Quick response from the dermatologist — I wanted a fast turnaround for a skin concern that would be more immediate than going through health insurance, making an appointment, traveling to the doctor.

Timothy C.
Patient Review →

Side effects and Warnings

Potential side effects of hydroquinone cream

Dryness, flaking, itching, or a sensation of burning on the skin
Reduced thickness of the skin, increasing susceptibility to bruising
Alteration in the skin’s natural color, resulting in darkening
Scaling around the mouth area
Formation of blisters, crusts, or flakes on the skin
Appearance of redness, irritation, or the emergence of rashes
Lightening of the usual skin hue
Redness, tenderness, or extensive peeling of the skin⁵

Warning and precaution when using hydroquinone

You should only use hydroquinone under medical supervision. Pregnant and nursing women should not use hydroquinone as it is not safe for the unborn baby. Individuals taking any type of medications should always inform their healthcare provider before using it.

Hydroquinone can increase skin sensitivity to the sun, so protect your skin with sunscreen and avoid excessive sun exposure. Begin with a lower concentration if you are new to hydroquinone, and use it once a day in the evening.

Discontinue use if severe irritation occurs, and avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes. Regular follow-ups with a dermatologist can help monitor progress and adjust treatment as needed.

How to use hydroquinone cream?

According to Dr. Eric Howell, board-certified dermatologist, if you have been prescribed with hydroquinone, this is how you should use it.

1. Conduct a patch test

Always conduct a patch test for hydroquinone before widespread use to identify potential skin reactions. Apply a small amount to a small skin area and monitor for any adverse reactions, such as redness or irritation, over the next 24 hours.

2. Cleanse your skin

Begin by cleansing your skin gently using a mild, soap-free cleanser. Afterward, pat your skin dry with a clean towel, ensuring it’s completely dry before applying hydroquinone.

3. Apply a thin layer

Apply a thin layer of hydroquinone cream or gel to the desired treatment areas using clean fingertips. Massage the product into your skin evenly, but avoid the eye, mouth, and mucous membrane areas.

4. Use sunscreen with SPF 50

It is recommended toapply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a SPF 50 daily, particularly in the morning. UV exposure can exacerbate hyperpigmentation and counteract the efficacy and benefits of hydroquinone cream.

5. Use a moisturizer

6. Monitor your skin’s response

Monitor your skin’s response to hydroquinone closely. If you experience excessive irritation, redness, or any adverse reactions, discontinue use and seek guidance from your healthcare provider.

7. Schedule follow-up appointments

Schedule follow-up appointments with your online dermatologist to assess your progress, address any concerns, and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

Notice

Keep in mind that hydroquinone should not be used long-term. It is generally recommended to discontinue use after a maximum of 4 months, whether it has achieved the desired results or not. Discuss treatment plan for dark spot recurrence with your dermatologist.

Provider & Prescription Information

Miiskin connects patients with independent dermatologists who provide care through their private practices. Compounded prescriptions can be ordered via Miiskin and are dispensed by Foothills pharmacy. Standard medications can be issued for any local pharmacy.

Got more questions about getting a hydroquinone prescription online?

How to buy hydroquinone online?

You can get a hydroquinone prescription online through Miiskin by completing a brief consultation with one of the independent board-certified dermatologists on the platform. After you submit photos and a short medical history, the dermatologist will review your case and determine whether hydroquinone is appropriate for your skin concerns. If it is, they may prescribe it either on its own or as part of a customized compounded formula through Foothills Pharmacy. Once the prescription is issued, you can order it directly through Miiskin, and the pharmacy will ship it to your home.

Why would a patient choose a customized hydroquinone formula?

You can choose a customized hydroquinone formula through Miiskin if you want a treatment that’s tailored to your specific skin needs. The independent board-certified dermatologist reviewing your case may recommend a compounded formula because it allows hydroquinone to be combined with other ingredients, such as tretinoin, kojic acid, vitamin C, or niacinamide to target multiple concerns. Custom formulas can also be adjusted in strength or paired with soothing ingredients to reduce irritation. This personalized approach.

Important Disclaimer: Compounded medications are not reviewed by the FDA for safety or efficacy.

How much does it cost to get hydroquinone via Miiskin?

A consultation via Miiskin for first-time patients is usually around $59 and when you need a medication refill, the price is reduced to $39. Most Foothills formulas are $48.99, with a few advanced formulas being priced at $58.99.

You can also choose a FDA-approved generic hydroquinone cream which can be bought at any local or online pharmacy. Price may vary depending on the pharmacy and availability.

How long will it take to get my hydroquinone?

An online consultation with a dermatologist normally takes two business days to complete. If you choose Foothills, you can order your medication right on Miiskin. After payment is completed, they will ship your customized formula with a free 2-day UPS shipping.

Where and how can I purchase hydroquinone?

If you chose Foothills as your preferred pharmacy, you can order your medication right on Miiskin, after you receive your e-prescription. You will get a payment link by email and once payment is completed, they will ship your medication with a free 2-day UPS shipping.

If you chose a local pharmacy, you can buy the medication the same day you got your prescription.

Can my customized formula be adjusted over time?

Hydroquinone can only be used for short periods (typically no more than 3–4 months) which is why a dermatologist will not continue prescribing it indefinitely. After that initial course, they usually transition you to a customized formula that can be used safely long term to maintain your results and prevent pigment from returning.

Start a virtual consultation to request a custom hydroquinone cream

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References:
¹https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539693/
²https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539693/
³https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12709008/
⁴https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9122278/
⁵https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/19764-hydroquinone-skin-cream-gel-emulsion-lotion-or-solution