This topical gel contains hydroquinone 6% and kojic acid 3% in an emollient gel base. It is available by prescription in a 30 g pump.

This combination is formulated in an anhydrous gel. This smooth, creamy base has a refined cosmetic feel, leaving no greasy or tacky residue. It provides emollient, moisturizing effects that soften skin while delivering active ingredients.

To address hyperpigmentation, dermatologists and cosmetologists use a variety of topical preparations and procedural techniques, including vitamin C, retinoids, chemical peels, and invasive treatments such as lasers [1]. However, it is often difficult to rely on a single active ingredient for optimal results, which is why combination therapies are commonly used. One such combination includes hydroquinone and kojic acid, particularly for patients with melasma, freckles, or other pigmentary disorders. Each component plays a specific role in reducing discoloration and improving skin appearance:

Hydroquinone is a widely used depigmenting agent that is believed to inhibit melanocyte metabolic processes, thereby suppressing melanin production [2].

Kojic acid, an organic acid derived from the fermentation of fungi such as Aspergillus oryzae (called “Koji” in Japan), works by chelating copper ions at the active site of tyrosinase, the key enzyme in melanin synthesis [3]. By inhibiting tyrosinase activity, kojic acid prevents melanin formation. Kojic acid has good efficacy in the treatment of melasma with no serious complications [4].

Vitamin E inclusion in the base may help prevent oxidation of vitamin A and C and protect against free radicals and hemolysis. It has many benefits as a skin protectant. It aids in the healing of scar tissue, moisturizes, counteracts premature aging, and may reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles [5].

By targeting multiple points in the melanin production and inflammatory pathways, multi-agent therapies provide support for patients with widespread hyperpigmentation. This formulation remains steroid-free and the higher potency combination may be beneficial for stubborn spots while vitamin E protects against irritation.

Skin color disorders can be caused by various factors, such as excessive exposure to sunlight, aging and hormonal imbalance during pregnancy, or taking some medications. This may be considered by providers treating patients with melasma, freckles, or other areas with melanin hyperpigmentation.

The skin, as the largest organ of the human body, serves as the primary barrier against environmental factors. Constantly exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, pollution, and other external stressors, it relies on internal defense mechanisms to maintain its integrity and function. One such mechanism is melanogenesis, the enzymatic process by which melanin is produced to protect the skin from UV damage [6]. However, when melanin production is disturbed or unevenly distributed, it can lead to hyperpigmentation, a common cosmetic and dermatological concern. This typically presents as irregular, darker patches of skin, often occurring in areas frequently exposed to sunlight. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation can also develop after skin trauma or inflammation and may persist for weeks to years. Inflammation triggers the release of prostaglandins, leukotrienes, and thromboxanes, which stimulate melanocyte activity and increase melanin synthesis in the epidermis [7].

1. PRESCRIBER & PATIENT INFORMATION

Prescribing clinician’s name, licensing information, address and contact information. Patients’ full name, date of birth, shipping address and contact information.

2. COMPLETE PRESCRIPTION INFORMATION

Include: drug, dosage, and dosage form, quantity, SIG, and refills if requested.

3. PRESCRIPTION TRANSMITTAL

Fax: (940) 382-2694
Phone: 940-382-6758 | Speak to a pharmacist
Escribe ID: 0903012660 or CARIE BOYD Pharmaceuticals

•  Select Medication from the drop-down menu (bulk ingredient or powder is OK)
•  Use the words Please Compound in the SIG or Comments section followed by the compounded medication you want to prescribe.

NOTE: If you cannot find the same strength or form, that’s OK, write exactly what you want into the SIG or Comments section. In most cases we’ll be able to custom compound the prescribed medication.

Store at controlled refrigerated temperature. Protect from heat and avoid freezing.

[1] Integrative approaches to hyperpigmentation therapy: Complementary and alternative approaches for hyperpigmentation are reviewed, broadly organized into three major groups: 1) minimally invasive treatments, 2) plant-based therapies, and 3) natural antioxidants”., JOID, vol. 1, no. 1, Dec. 2022, doi: 10.64550/joid.8hakh229.
[2] Lexicomp. (n.d.). Hydroquinone: Drug information. In Lexicomp Online. Wolters Kluwer. Retrieved August 26, 2025 from https://www.online.lexi.com/
[3] Wawrzyk-Bochenek I, Rahnama M, Stachura M, Wilczyński S, Wawrzyk A. Evaluation of the Reduction of Skin Hyperpigmentation Changes under the Influence of a Preparation Containing Kojic Acid Using Hyperspectral Imaging-Preliminary Study. J Clin Med. 2023;12(7):2710. Published 2023 Apr 4. doi:10.3390/jcm12072710
[4] Iraji, F. , Asililan, A. , Fadaei, F. and Nilforoushzadeh, M. A. (2014). Comparing Kojic Acid Cream 2% with Glycolic Acid 10% and Hydroquinone Cream 2% in Treatment of Melasma. Journal of Isfahan Medical School, 31(269), 2295-[5] Lexicomp. (n.d.). Vitamin E: Drug information. In Lexicomp Online. Wolters Kluwer. Retrieved August 26, 2025 from https://www.online.lexi.com/
[6] Brenner M, Hearing VJ. The protective role of melanin against UV damage in human skin. Photochem Photobiol. 2008;84(3):539-549. doi:10.1111/j.1751-1097.2007.00226.x
[7] Wawrzyk-Bochenek I, Rahnama M, Stachura M, Wilczyński S, Wawrzyk A. Evaluation of the Reduction of Skin Hyperpigmentation Changes under the Influence of a Preparation Containing Kojic Acid Using Hyperspectral Imaging-Preliminary Study. J Clin Med. 2023;12(7):2710. Published 2023 Apr 4. doi:10.3390/jcm12072710