Get a prescription for hyperpigmentation cream

Consultation price: $59

Response time: 1-2 working days

Board-certified dermatologists
Commercial or customized formulas
No appointment needed

Medically reviewed by:
Dr. Eric Howell
Dermatologist

Why get hyperpigmentation treatment via Miiskin?

First consultation is $59 and medication refills are $39.

No subscriptions, order your treatment on-demand.

You can get a customized hyperpigmentation treatment.

*The Miiskin-affiliated dermatologists are independent healthcare providers. Miiskin does not interfer with their practice of medicine.

Get a custom hyperpigmentation formula

Get a customized formula for hyperpigmentation and fade dark spots with a treatment made specifically for your skin. Whether you’re dealing with sun spots, post-acne marks, or uneven skin tone, a personalized solution targets the root causes of hyperpigmentation for clearer, more radiant skin.

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What is hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation is a common skin condition where certain areas of the skin become darker than the surrounding skin due to excess melanin production. It can be caused by sun exposure, inflammation (such as from acne), hormonal changes, or skin injuries. Common types include sun spots, melasma, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. While harmless, hyperpigmentation can be persistent and often requires targeted treatments to fade effectively.

Causes of hyperpigmentation

Sun exposure

Sun exposure is the leading cause of hyperpigmentation, as it triggers the production of melanin.

Hormonal factors

Hormonal changes in women can lead to superficial or deeper hyperpigmentation.

Genetics

Genetics can influence skin color variations, as well as melanocyte function leading to the development of localized patches.

Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)

Skin inflammation after acne, psoriasis, and dermatitis can lead to hyperpigmentation after the injury has healed.

Medication-induced

Some medications such as antibiotics, birth control pills, antimalarials and some antidepressants, may cause hyperpigmentation.

side effects from laser or other cosmetic surgery

Cosmetic procedures

Hyperpigmentation may occur as a consequence of laser or other cosmetic procedures if you have a darker skin tone.

What hyperpigmentation creams can you get?

An experienced dermatology provider will work closely with you to offer the best dermatology care. This can include prescribing hyperpigmentation creams that you’re interested in, if they are a safe and optimal fit for your condition. Learn more about the most used ingredients for hyperpigmentation.

Provider & Prescription Information

Miiskin connects patients with independent dermatologists who provide care through their own private practices. Miiskin does not employ dermatologists and does not sell or distribute medications. Any prescriptions issued by the dermatologists can be filled at third-party pharmacies of the patient’s choice.

How can I get an online prescription for hyperpigmentation cream?

Do I need a prescription for hyperpigmentation cream?
There are some over-the-counter hyperpigmentation creams available such as azelaic acid, tranexamic acid, niacinamide and kojic acid among others, but they take longer to show visible results. If you have tried OTC hyperpigmentation serums and did not get the results you had wished for, you could try a prescription-strength cream for hyperpigmentation. For this, you need to have a consultation with an online dermatologist who will prescribe prescription medications such as hydroquinone, tretinoin and prescription strength azelaic acid.

How can I get an online prescription for hyperpigmentation cream?
You can have a photo-consultation with an experienced dermatologist via Miiskin. They will evaluate your photos, symptoms and clinical questionnaire and provide you with a hyperpigmentation cream prescription, which you can pick up at your local pharmacy.

How long will it take to get a prescription for hyperpigmentation?
A photo-consultation via Miiskin takes 1-2 working days to be assessed and it costs around $59. You need to pay for your hyperpigmentation treatment separately.

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 →

How to prevent hyperpigmentation and melasma?

Although you cannot fully prevent the development of hyperpigmentation on your skin you can do three things to reduce the chance of developing or worsening it.

Protect your skin from the sun

Minimize sun exposure between the hours of 10am-2pm, wear protective clothing, and always apply sunscreen with a broad spectrum SPF of 50 and reply often when outdoors.

Switch birth control method

Consider an alternative birth control method if you are susceptible to melasma, as conventional birth control pills may worsen your hyperpigmentation.

Keep your acne under control

Acne can lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation after the skin has healed, to prevent this from happening get acne treatment for a blemish and more radiant skin.

Clinically proven ingredients

Clinical trials show that 77% of patients applying Tri Luma were almost clear of pigmentation by week 8².

Research shows that 72% of patients with melasma who used hydroquinone for 4 months saw an overall improvement³.

Patients using azelaic acid over a 24-week treatment period, showed that it significantly reduced the intensity of pigmentation⁴.

Request a Prescription for Hyperpigmentation Cream in Three Simple Steps

Start consultation to request your cream prescription for hyperpigmentation
A dermatologist will create prescription treatment plan, if medically appropriate
Go to the pharmacy to buy your treatment and wait for results

Process to getting a prescription for hyperpigmentation cream
Through Miiskin, you can connect with a dermatologist for an online consultation using photos. The dermatologist will evaluate your condition and, if appropriate, write you a prescription cream for hyperpigmentation treatment. You can then pick up the prescription at your preferred pharmacy.

Frequently asked questions about hyperpigmentation treatment

Will my insurance cover the consultation fee?

Most likely not. Providers on the Miiskin platform charge as little as $59 for new patient consultations, with potentially lower rates for follow-up appointments, making them affordable even without insurance. Unfortunately, insurance coverage for online consultations remains limited in many areas. By paying the low consultation fee directly out of pocket, you can avoid complicated insurance paperwork and associated delays, resulting in a simpler and faster process.

What is the most effective treatment for hyperpigmentation?

According to Dr. Eric Howell, board-certified dermatologist, the most effective treatment for hyperpigmentation typically includes a combination of topical treatments like hydroquinone, retinoids (such as tretinoin), Vitamin C and sunscreen. Combining these treatments often yields the best results. You can also do treatments such as chemical peels for hyperpigmentation and laser therapy.

How do you fade hyperpigmentation fast?

According to Dr. Eric Howell, to fade hyperpigmentation fast, your dermatologist can prescribe a triple combination cream consisting of hydroquinone, tretinoin and a topical corticosteroid sold under the brand name Tri-Luma, or can be also purchased via a compounding pharmacy. This cream is particularly effective and works quite fast. To maximize results, he says you can also incorporate chemical exfoliants such as glycolic acid or salicylic acid to speed up cell turnover. Consistent use of broad-spectrum sunscreen is crucial to prevent further darkening and protect treated areas from UV damage.

Can hyperpigmentation be removed?

Dr. Howell says that you can considerably decrease dark spots with adequate treatment. Topical treatments like hydroquinone, retinoids, and chemical peels can effectively lighten dark spots. Laser therapy, chemical peels for hyperpigmentation and microdermabrasion are also effective options for more stubborn pigmentation. Consistent treatment and sun protection are key to achieving and maintaining results.

What completely clears hyperpigmentation?

Dr. Howell says that it is very hard to clear hyperpigmentation completely, but you can considerably reduce your symptoms with a combination of treatments, including prescription-strength hydroquinone, retinoids, chemical peels, and laser therapy. Regular use of broad-spectrum sunscreen to prevent further pigmentation and protect the skin is essential. Consistent treatment and guidance from a dermatologist can help you achieve the best results.

What is the main cause of hyperpigmentation?

The main cause of hyperpigmentation according to Dr. Howell is an overproduction of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color. This can be triggered by factors such as sun exposure, hormonal changes (like during pregnancy or from oral contraceptives), inflammation from acne or injuries, and certain medications that increase skin sensitivity to sunlight.

Does hyperpigmentation go away?

Hyperpigmentation can go away, according to Dr. Howell, but it often requires treatment and time. Mild cases may fade over a few months with consistent use of topical treatments and sun protection. More severe cases might need prescription-strength medications or professional procedures like chemical peels or laser therapy to achieve significant improvement.

Does vitamin C help with hyperpigmentation?

Dr. Howell says that vitamin C helps with hyperpigmentation by inhibiting the enzyme tyrosinase, which is involved in melanin production. Its antioxidant properties also protect the skin from free radical damage and promote a brighter, more even skin tone. He recommends the regular use of vitamin C serums in the morning followed by sunscreen with SPF 50 to reduce dark spots and improve overall skin radiance.

What cream is good for hyperpigmentation?

Dr. Howell says there are many creams and serums for hyperpigmentation. Some are available over the counter such as tranexamic acid, thiamidol or kojic acid and others are sold with a prescription such as hydroquinone, tretinoin, and azelaic acid. Products like Tri-Luma, which combine hydroquinone, tretinoin, and a corticosteroid, are particularly effective. These ingredients work together to lighten dark spots, promote cell turnover, and reduce inflammation.

Does anything really work for hyperpigmentation?

Dr. Howell says there are several treatments that work effectively for hyperpigmentation, including hydroquinone, retinoids, vitamin C, and chemical peels. Consistent use of these treatments, along with diligent sun protection, can significantly reduce dark spots and improve skin tone. Professional treatments like laser therapy and microdermabrasion can also provide excellent results.

Does tretinoin help hyperpigmentation?

Dr. Howell says that tretinoin helps with hyperpigmentation to some extent by promoting cell turnover and increasing the shedding of pigmented skin cells. However, if you want to obtain more dramatic results you should use tretinoin and hydroquinone together.

Will tretinoin fade dark spots?

Yes, tretinoin can fade dark spots by promoting faster cell turnover and helping to exfoliate the skin. This process gradually reduces the appearance of hyperpigmentation and leads to a more even skin tone. Regular use of tretinoin, combined with sun protection, can improve dark spots over time.

How long does it take for hydroquinone to work on hyperpigmentation?

Hydroquinone typically takes 4-6 weeks to show noticeable improvements in hyperpigmentation, with more significant results visible after 2-3 months of consistent use. Continued application and strict sun protection are essential for achieving the best results and preventing new pigmentation from forming. Unlike tretinoin, hydroquinone should not be used indefinitely and the exact duration of treatment is something that can be discussed during your consultation.

Does hydroquinone remove pigmentation permanently?

According to Dr. Howell, hydroquinone can significantly lighten or remove pigmentation, but it may not be permanent. Continued sun exposure or other triggers can lead to new hyperpigmentation. Maintenance treatment and constant use of sunscreen are necessary to sustain the results and prevent recurrence of dark spots.

Will hyperpigmentation come back after hydroquinone?

According to Dr. Howell, hyperpigmentation can come back after discontinuing hydroquinone if underlying triggers like sun exposure or hormonal changes are not managed. To prevent this from happening you need to continuously use sunscreen with SPF 50 and maintenance treatments to prevent recurrence and maintain results.

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