Coming soon: not yet available to dispense.

What it is

Melasma and other kinds of hyperpigmentation are often treated with a combination of ingredients, used in stages or cycles under a prescriber’s supervision.

Many FDA-approved topical products are available and are usually tried first. Compounding lets a prescriber combine compatible ingredients in one preparation, order a strength that is not sold commercially, or choose a base that suits the patient’s skin and leaves out ingredients the patient must avoid.

Ingredients prescribers commonly order

Hydroquinone.
Kojic acid or azelaic acid.
A retinoid.
Antioxidant components.

Bases and packaging

Creams, gels, lotions, ointments and serums.
Fragrance-free, dye-free or alcohol-free bases on request, when compatible with the formula.
Metered pumps and airless dispensers for accurate dosing.

How to get it

Patients: ask your prescriber to send the prescription to AccuMix Pharmacy by e-prescription or fax.
Providers and clinics: see our Providers page for what to include on the prescription, or call 866-817-5303 for a pharmacist consult.

We dispense only on a valid prescription for a named patient; nothing is sold through this website. Our turnaround time is 24 hours, and we ship to the 39 states and Washington, DC where we hold a license.

How it is made

Compounded under USP <795>, with USP <800> controls for hazardous ingredients, by a team led by board-certified pharmacists. Ingredients come from FDA-registered suppliers and are verified against a certificate of analysis. A pharmacist checks each step, and every preparation is traceable by lot.

Safety and what to expect

Follow the schedule on your label. Hydroquinone is normally used for limited periods, with breaks set by your prescriber.
Use sunscreen every day. Sun exposure works against treatment and makes irritation more likely.
Redness, dryness and stinging can occur. Stop and call your prescriber if the skin becomes darker or badly irritated.
Tell your prescriber if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding. Some ingredients, including retinoids and hydroquinone, are generally avoided.
Keep the preparation away from the eyes, lips and broken skin unless your prescriber directs otherwise. Report a rash or irritation that does not settle.

Storage

Follow the storage directions and the beyond-use date (BUD) printed on your label. Keep the container closed and away from heat. Some formulas darken with exposure to air or light; follow the label and discard after the beyond-use date. Keep all medications out of the reach of children and pets.

Common questions

Why is it used in stages or cycles?

Prescribers often limit how long certain ingredients are used and build in breaks. We label the preparation to match the schedule on the prescription.

Can you leave out fragrance, dyes or alcohol?

Yes. Your prescriber can request a base without them, when it is compatible with the formula.

Do you publish strengths or formulas?

No. The prescriber sets the ingredients and concentrations for each patient, and they are printed on the label.

Compounded medications are not reviewed or approved by the FDA. AccuMix Pharmacy is a 503A compounding pharmacy and compounds only after receiving a valid prescription for an individual patient. This page is general information, not medical advice. Your prescriber decides whether this therapy is right for you.

More about Dermatology Compounding at AccuMix Pharmacy.