Hydroquinone is often considered one of the best options for treating hyperpigmentation. 

Hyperpigmentation refers to areas on the skin that are darker than the rest of the skin. Hydroquinone has a lot of research proving its effectiveness, but it should only be used in the proper manner as directed by a physician (dermatologist). Hydroquinone should be made specifically for the patient in order to maximize the benefits and minimize the risks associated with its use. Hydroquinone is available through Allure Compounding Pharmacy as a prescription-only drug, and we create our custom blends for patients following the precise protocol provided by their physician. Additionally, our compounds are generally more concentrated than over-the-counter products. There are many limitations when using commercially manufactured (mass-produced) products.

Hydroquinone inhibits an enzyme called tyrosinase that synthesizes melanin; or skin color. Hydroquinone has been prescribed by physicians to treat several types of skin diseases. These include Melasma, Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation, Solar Lentigines (age spots), and other forms of Dyschromia. Hydroquinone may help improve deficient pigment through careful and dermatologist directed use, thereby promoting a more even skin tone.

Hydroquinone is a very potent and powerful drug, and should not be considered a “cosmetic” product. Due to its potency, Hydroquinone has warnings and guidelines, which is why it would be preferable to take a compounded approach to using Hydroquinone.

Regulation and Strength In the United States, over-the-counter products are limited to 2% concentrations. Prescription-strength formulas (typically 4% and above) are more effective for stubborn pigmentation but require a doctor’s diagnosis and supervision. Compounding allows us to create exact percentages as prescribed, even customizing strengths for different areas of the face or body.

The Triple Therapy Advantage involves prescribing typically Hydroquinone, and more often than not it is used with two other topical agents for maximum efficacy, Tretinoin and a Mild Corticosteroid. Hydroquinone is generally used in conjunction with Tretinoin and Mild Corticosteroids to increase the rate of cell turnover and increase penetration of the respective medications. By allowing you to have just one product instead of taking three different medications separately, Allure Compounding Pharmacy has simplified your process of obtaining a prescription from your physician by combining these three active ingredients into one stable formulation. In addition the Allure Compounding Pharmacy formulation results in an easy one-step application as well as improved compliance by ensuring delivery of all active ingredients as recommended.

Purity and Customization: We compound using high-quality pure ingredients, avoiding the preservatives, fragrances, or dyes commonly found in commercial products that can irritate sensitive skin. We can also create bases suited for oily, dry, or sensitive skin types, improving tolerance.

A critical discussion point is the controversial reputation of hydroquinone, primarily linked to two potential issues: ochronosis and safety concerns. Ochronosis is a paradoxical blue-black or grayish discoloration that can occur with prolonged, unsupervised use of high concentrations, especially in darker skin tones. This underscores why short-term, cyclic use under a dermatologist’s care—typically no longer than 3-5 months at a time—is the gold standard. Compounding supports this protocol by providing the exact amount needed for a treatment cycle, reducing waste and promoting safer usage patterns.

In addition, compounding pharmacies that are reputable, such as Allure, perform rigorous stability testing on compounding formulas before they will sell them. A major drawback to most of the commercially available hydroquinone products is their propensity to oxidize and break down when exposed to air and light, changing colors from a clear solution to brown or darker versions and losing all effectiveness. 

The compounded products at Allure are carefully packaged into opaque containers, and have appropriately assigned ‘beyond use’ dates in order to preserve the maximum integrity of the product for the intended duration of use. If you and your dermatologist determine hydroquinone to be the most effective option for addressing your hyperpigmentation issue, your best option would be to have a compounded product made specifically for you. 

Contact Allure Compounding Pharmacy to discuss how we can help create a product that meets both your prescription needs as well as the goals of your healthcare provider.

The FDA does not review any compounded drugs to evaluate their safety, effectiveness, or quality before they reach patients.