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Prepared to order

Dark Spots and Melasma

Creams prescribers use for dark spots, uneven tone and melasma.

  • Cream
PricingQuoted when we call to confirm your order
Get started Prescribers: order forms (portal)

Prescribers: e-prescribe this prescription · Licensed to fill prescriptions for patients in California

  • Creams, 30 g
  • Several ingredients in one product
  • Strengths set by your prescriber
  • Prepared for one patient

Compounded medications are made for one patient from a prescriber's order. They are not FDA approved. This page is for general information, not medical advice.

About dark spots and melasma

Dark spots and melasma are areas where skin makes extra pigment. Sun exposure, hormones and skin inflammation can play a part. Your prescriber works out the type and cause before choosing a treatment.

We compound only when there is a clinical reason a commercially available product won't work for you, such as a strength or combination that isn't made commercially, a different base because of an allergy or sensitivity, or a different form.

Formulas we commonly prepare

Your prescriber chooses the formula. Creams are dispensed in 30 g unless noted.

  • Tranexamic Acid 3% / Kojic Acid 2% Cream (refrigerate)
  • Hydroquinone 4% / Tretinoin 0.05% / Fluocinolone Acetonide 0.01% / Niacinamide 4% Cream (refrigerate)

In GHK-Cu Peptide Cream Base (15 g or 30 g)

  • Tranexamic Acid 3%

Don't see what your prescriber wrote? Call us at 626.631.6150.

How to use

Follow the directions on your label. Most of these are applied as a thin layer to the affected areas once or twice a day. Wash your hands after applying.

Before you start

Sulfites: the tranexamic acid / kojic acid cream and the hydroquinone cream contain sodium metabisulfite. Tell your prescriber and us if you are allergic to sulfites.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: hydroquinone and tretinoin need review first. Tell your prescriber if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Tretinoin increases sun sensitivity.

Stop and call your prescriber if you have severe redness, burning, swelling or a rash.

Step 1

Send your prescription

Your prescriber e-prescribes to EpitomeRx, faxes the prescription to 626.631.6151, or calls it in. Already have a prescription elsewhere? We can transfer it.

Step 2

We review and call you

A pharmacist checks the prescription for accuracy and formulation needs, then we call you to confirm details, pricing, timing and delivery. Payment is collected before we compound.

Step 3

We compound it

Your medication is prepared in our Arcadia laboratory to your provider's exact instructions and checked before it is dispensed.

Step 4

Delivered to your door

We ship anywhere in California. Local pickup in Arcadia is available by calling ahead.

For prescribers

Order on the dermatology order forms (in the prescriber portal), by e-prescription, fax or phone. Tretinoin is a NIOSH hazardous drug and is compounded under USP <800>. For items with a similar commercially available active, include the reason for compounding. Call 626.631.6150 for other strengths or formulas.

Common questions

Do I need a prescription?

Yes. Your prescriber writes the prescription. We do not prescribe.

Why would my prescriber choose a compounded cream?

We compound only when there is a clinical reason a commercially available product won't work for you, such as a combination or strength that isn't made commercially, or a different base because of an allergy or sensitivity. Your prescriber decides what's right for you.

Which creams need to be refrigerated?

The tranexamic acid / kojic acid cream and the hydroquinone cream. Keep them in the refrigerator.

How long is my cream good for?

Use it by the date on your label, usually 35 days after it is made.

How are refrigerated creams shipped?

In an insulated pouch with ice packs, Monday to Thursday. Refrigerated orders are $15 to ship under $99, or $5 on orders of $99 and up.

I'm allergic to sulfites. Does that matter?

Yes. Two creams, the tranexamic acid / kojic acid cream and the hydroquinone cream, contain sodium metabisulfite. Tell your prescriber and us.

Do I need sunscreen?

Yes. Tretinoin makes skin more sensitive to the sun, and sun exposure can darken melasma. Use sunscreen every day.

Are compounded medications FDA approved?

No. Compounded medications are prepared by a pharmacy for one patient from a prescription, and FDA has not reviewed their safety, effectiveness or quality. We prepare them following USP standards for nonsterile and hazardous drug compounding.

How does my prescriber send the prescription?

By e-prescription, fax or phone. See how to e-prescribe.

Do you ship?

We ship within California only. Free standard shipping on orders of $99 and up; $10 under $99. Local pickup at our Arcadia pharmacy is by appointment.

Licensed service area

Serving patients across California

EpitomeRx is licensed by the California State Board of Pharmacy. We ship anywhere in California. Local pickup in Arcadia is available by calling ahead.

Serving Arcadia, Pasadena, Monrovia, San Marino, Temple City, the San Gabriel Valley and all of California.

Shipping times and pickup details

Arcadia
Licensed service areaOur pharmacy