$75.00
Melasma HQ Cream is a prescription-only, custom-compounded topical treatment formulated to address melasma and related hyperpigmentation concerns. Its multi-active formula combines hydroquinone, tretinoin, azelaic acid, and hydrocortisone to target excess pigment production, support skin-cell turnover, and help manage treatment-related inflammation.
The cream is available in three compounded strengths, allowing the prescribing healthcare provider to select an appropriate formulation based on the patient’s individual needs. Melasma HQ Cream is prepared by a 503A compounding pharmacy for individual patients and requires a valid prescription. It is not an FDA-approved commercial drug product.
Use Melasma HQ Cream exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
In the evening, cleanse the treatment area with a mild, non-irritating cleanser and gently pat the skin dry. Allow the skin to dry completely before applying the medication.
Apply a small, pea-sized amount in a thin layer over the affected areas. Avoid the eyes, eyelids, lips, nostrils, corners of the mouth, broken skin, and other sensitive areas. Wash your hands thoroughly after application.
The cream is generally left on overnight and washed off during the morning skincare routine. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every morning and limit direct sun exposure.
The typical regimen is once nightly for a limited treatment period, commonly around 8 to 12 weeks, although the prescribing provider may recommend every-other-night use initially or adjust the duration based on skin tolerance and response. Do not apply more frequently or use a larger amount unless instructed by your provider.
Hydroquinone: Helps reduce melanin production by inhibiting tyrosinase, an enzyme involved in pigment formation.
Tretinoin: Promotes epidermal cell turnover, helping remove pigmented surface cells while supporting the penetration and effectiveness of hydroquinone.
Azelaic Acid: Helps inhibit excess pigment production while providing complementary anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity.
Hydrocortisone: A mild topical corticosteroid that helps reduce redness, inflammation, and irritation associated with stronger active ingredients.
Empower Pharmacy does not publish a dedicated clinical trial evaluating the exact Melasma HQ Cream formulation containing hydroquinone, tretinoin, azelaic acid, and hydrocortisone. Because it is a custom-compounded medication, it has not undergone FDA review for product-specific safety or efficacy.
However, clinical evidence supports the active ingredients and related combination approaches used in melasma treatment:
Individual outcomes vary depending on melasma severity, skin type, sun exposure, treatment consistency, selected strength, and tolerance. Improvement may begin after approximately four to six weeks, while fuller results may require eight to twelve weeks under professional supervision.
Wash the skin and let it dry.
Use a small amount at night.
Keep away from eyes and lips.
Apply SPF 30 or higher daily.
Helps reduce excess pigment production and improve visible dark patches.
Supports skin-cell turnover and the removal of pigmented surface cells.
Helps address uneven pigmentation while providing calming support.
Price range: $69.00 through $199.00
It is a prescription-only compounded dermatological cream intended to treat melasma and related hyperpigmentation disorders.
The four active ingredients work through complementary mechanisms to reduce pigment production, promote skin-cell turnover, and help minimize inflammation and irritation.
It is commonly applied as a thin layer to affected areas at night. Patients must follow the exact application frequency and duration prescribed by their healthcare provider.
Yes. Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is essential because sun exposure can worsen melasma and increase skin sensitivity during treatment.
Yes. Melasma HQ Cream is a custom-compounded medication that must be prescribed by a licensed healthcare provider and prepared for an individual patient.
