Sublingual Semaglutide (generic Ozempic®) now available! Get Started
Dashboard
Formulas

Hydrocortisone 2.5%/Hydroquinone 4%/Tretinoin 0.1% Topical Gel

The Hydrocortisone 2.5%/Hydroquinone 4%/Tretinoin 0.1% Topical Gel is a specialized dermatological formulation designed to address multiple skin conditions. This semisolid preparation is presented in a user-friendly pump dispenser, which ensures a clean, precise, and consistent application of the gel to the affected areas of the skin. The gel base provides a suitable medium for the active ingredients to be absorbed effectively into the skin.

Hydrocortisone, a mild corticosteroid, helps to reduce inflammation and alleviate itching and redness associated with various dermatoses. Hydroquinone is a depigmenting agent that works by decreasing the formation of melanin in the skin, making it beneficial for the treatment of hyperpigmentation, melasma, and other skin discoloration issues. Tretinoin, a derivative of vitamin A, promotes skin cell turnover and is commonly used in the management of acne and to improve the appearance of surface wrinkles and mottled skin discoloration. Together, these active ingredients provide a comprehensive treatment for a range of skin conditions, including inflammatory skin disorders, pigmentation abnormalities, and textural irregularities.

Want a different strength?
Click the Text Us button below.
To prescribe, you must be a verified prescriber.
To prescribe, you must be in a state where we hold an active out-of-state pharmacy license.
Starting at
Must be E-Prescribed
Get Started
Generate LeafletShow Leaflet
This medication requires a prescription from your doctor
Trusted by 60,357 patients to date.
A group of faces of our past satisfied patients.
A svg symbol of a mortar and pestle with ingredients going in.
Custom made in our compounding labs.
Sliders that show the customization of ingredients.
Personalized treatment for better results.
User with a gear showing the personalization of the formulation.
All strengths and ingredients are tailored to your needs.
This medication is not available at retail pharmacies. It is compounded, and may be more effective at treating you or your patient.
Topical Gel
65addece4377dde5288c8de6
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Loading icon rotating.
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Dosing Calculator

Get general dosing information for a patient by using this calculator.
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Loading icon rotating.
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Formula Information

A small arrow pointing down

The Hydrocortisone 2.5%/Hydroquinone 4%/Tretinoin 0.1% Topical Gel is a compounded dermatological preparation designed to address multiple skin conditions through a synergistic combination of active ingredients. Hydrocortisone, a corticosteroid, works by reducing inflammation and calming irritated skin, making it beneficial for treating inflammatory skin disorders. Hydroquinone is a skin-lightening agent effective in reducing hyperpigmentation, such as melasma, age spots, and freckles, by inhibiting the enzymatic conversion of tyrosine to melanin. Tretinoin, a retinoid, promotes skin cell turnover and is widely recognized for its efficacy in treating acne and photoaging by stimulating collagen production and reducing fine lines and wrinkles.

This multifaceted formulation is presented in a semisolid gel base, which allows for a lightweight and non-greasy application. The gel is dispensed through a pump mechanism, ensuring that patients can apply a consistent and measured dose to the affected areas of the skin. This dosage form is particularly suitable for patients seeking a convenient and mess-free application, as well as for prescribers who wish to provide a precise dosing regimen.

The combination of these three active ingredients in a single formulation offers a comprehensive treatment approach for patients with complex skin conditions that may not respond to monotherapy. It is particularly useful for those suffering from conditions that exhibit both inflammatory symptoms and hyperpigmentation, along with textural irregularities of the skin. However, it is important to note that this formulation should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as the ingredients can cause side effects such as skin irritation, redness, or peeling, especially with initial use. Patients should be advised to apply sunscreen during the day while using this product due to increased photosensitivity associated with tretinoin and hydroquinone.

For optimal results, patients should adhere to the application instructions provided by their prescriber and report any adverse reactions or concerns during the course of treatment. Prescribers considering this formulation for their patients should take into account the patient's skin type, the severity of the skin condition, and any previous treatments or medications used. If you have any questions or require further information about this topical gel formulation, please reach out to us at Bayview Pharmacy. Our team of compounding pharmacists is committed to providing support and guidance to ensure the safe and effective use of this customized medication.

Drug Interactions

A small arrow pointing down

When considering the use of a compounded topical gel containing Hydrocortisone 2.5%, Hydroquinone 4%, and Tretinoin 0.1%, it is important to be aware of potential drug interactions that may affect the efficacy of the treatment or the safety of the patient. This formulation is designed to treat various skin conditions such as hyperpigmentation, melasma, and inflammatory skin disorders by combining the anti-inflammatory properties of hydrocortisone, the skin lightening effects of hydroquinone, and the acne and photoaging treatment capabilities of tretinoin.

Hydrocortisone, being a corticosteroid, may interact with other topical medications that can lead to skin irritation or additive systemic absorption, especially when applied to large areas of the body or under occlusive dressings. Patients should avoid using other topical steroids concurrently unless directed by a healthcare provider, as this may increase the risk of systemic corticosteroid side effects such as adrenal suppression.

Hydroquinone should be used with caution in combination with peroxide-containing products, such as benzoyl peroxide or hydrogen peroxide, as they may cause a temporary dark staining of the skin. This staining can usually be removed with soap and water. Additionally, concurrent use of resorcinol, phenol, or salicylic acid with hydroquinone may cause excessive skin irritation, and these combinations should be avoided unless under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

Tretinoin is a retinoid and can increase the skin's sensitivity to sunlight and the risk of sunburn. Patients should be advised to apply sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors. The use of other topical products with a strong drying effect, such as astringents, abrasive soaps, and alcohol-containing preparations, should be avoided as they may increase irritation when used with tretinoin. Moreover, the concomitant use of tretinoin with other retinoids or drugs that increase photosensitivity, such as thiazide diuretics and tetracyclines, should be undertaken with caution.

It is also important to note that the absorption of hydrocortisone can be increased when combined with other medications that affect the skin barrier, such as keratolytics. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all the products they are using on their skin to avoid potential interactions.

Lastly, while the systemic absorption of hydrocortisone, hydroquinone, and tretinoin from a topical application is generally low, it is still possible, especially with prolonged use or when applied to large areas of damaged skin. Therefore, it is crucial to monitor for systemic side effects and interactions with oral medications. For example, hydrocortisone may interact with oral diabetes medications, anticoagulants, and immunosuppressants.

Patients and prescribers should be aware of these potential interactions and use this compounded formulation with caution. If there are any concerns or questions regarding the use of this product or its interactions with other medications, please reach out to us at Bayview Pharmacy for further assistance and guidance.

How Does it Work

A small arrow pointing down

The Hydrocortisone 2.5%/Hydroquinone 4%/Tretinoin 0.1% Topical Gel is a compounded medication designed to address several skin conditions through a synergistic approach. This formulation combines the anti-inflammatory properties of hydrocortisone, the skin-lightening effects of hydroquinone, and the acne-treating and skin-renewing capabilities of tretinoin. The gel is designed to be dispensed through a pump mechanism, which ensures that each application delivers a consistent dose of the medication. This is particularly important for maintaining the efficacy of the treatment and minimizing potential side effects.

Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid that works by reducing inflammation and suppressing the immune response in the skin. This makes it effective in treating inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis. By including hydrocortisone in the formulation, the gel helps to alleviate redness, itching, and swelling associated with these conditions.

Hydroquinone is a depigmenting agent that works by inhibiting the enzymatic oxidation of tyrosine to 3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (DOPA) and suppressing other melanocyte metabolic processes, thereby reversing hyperpigmentation. This can be beneficial for conditions like melasma, age spots, and other forms of skin discoloration. The inclusion of hydroquinone in the formulation helps to even out skin tone and reduce the appearance of dark spots.

Tretinoin, a derivative of vitamin A, works by promoting the turnover of epithelial cells, thereby increasing the shedding of old, damaged skin and promoting the growth of new skin. This action helps to clear up acne and improve the appearance of skin affected by acne scarring, fine wrinkles, and sun damage. Tretinoin is also known to increase collagen production in the dermis, which can improve skin texture and elasticity over time.

The combination of these three active ingredients in a gel base allows for targeted application to affected areas of the skin. The gel formulation is designed to be lightweight and easily absorbed, minimizing the risk of a greasy residue that can occur with cream or ointment bases. The pump mechanism not only provides convenience but also minimizes the risk of contamination that can occur with jar packaging.

It is important for patients and prescribers to understand that while this formulation can be highly effective, it also requires careful use to avoid potential side effects, such as skin irritation or unwanted depigmentation. Patients should follow the application instructions provided by their healthcare provider and report any adverse reactions. Additionally, patients should be advised to use sun protection while using this medication, as all three active ingredients can increase the skin's sensitivity to sunlight.

If you have any questions or require further information about the Hydrocortisone 2.5%/Hydroquinone 4%/Tretinoin 0.1% Topical Gel, please reach out to us at Bayview Pharmacy. Our team of compounding pharmacists is here to provide support and guidance to ensure the safe and effective use of this compounded medication.

Other Uses

A small arrow pointing down

Welcome to Bayview Pharmacy. The topical gel formulation that combines Hydrocortisone 2.5%, Hydroquinone 4%, and Tretinoin 0.1% is primarily designed to address skin conditions such as melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and other forms of skin discoloration. Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid that helps reduce inflammation and itching, Hydroquinone is a depigmenting agent that helps lighten darkened areas of the skin, and Tretinoin is a derivative of vitamin A, which can treat acne and improve the appearance of the skin's texture and tone.

In addition to these primary indications, the properties of the individual components of this topical gel may make it useful in the management of other skin conditions. For example, given its anti-inflammatory properties, Hydrocortisone may also be beneficial for conditions like eczema or psoriasis when inflammation is a component of the disease. Tretinoin, by promoting cellular turnover, may help in the treatment of fine wrinkles and rough skin texture due to sun damage, in addition to its acne-treating effects. Hydroquinone's lightening properties may be sought for age spots or sun spots where hyperpigmentation is a concern.

It is important to note that this gel should be used strictly under medical supervision, as the combination of these active ingredients requires monitoring for potential side effects, such as skin irritation, increased sensitivity to sunlight, and an undesired depigmentation beyond the targeted areas. Treatment should be customized according to the specific skin condition and individual patient needs. It's also imperative to maintain strict adherence to sun protection measures, including the use of sunscreen and protective clothing when using this formulation, due to the increased risk of photosensitivity.

Patient education is crucial. They should be informed that while beneficial effects may be observed with off-label uses, these should be weighed against the potential risks and should be discussed with their healthcare provider. The elegant semisolid gel formulation dispensed through a pump mechanism ensures easy and precise application, which is particularly beneficial for applying the medication to small, targeted areas of skin with minimal waste.

If you have any questions or need further clarification about the potential other uses and suitability of this formulation for specific conditions, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at Bayview Pharmacy. Our team of compounding pharmacists is ready to assist you with your specific needs and to provide guidance based on the latest clinical information and standards of care. Your health and well-being are our utmost priorities.

Frequently Asked Questions

A small arrow pointing down

What is the purpose of this compounded topical gel?

This compounded topical gel combines Hydrocortisone, Hydroquinone, and Tretinoin, and is typically used to treat various skin conditions such as inflammation, pigmentation issues like melasma, and acne. Hydrocortisone acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, Hydroquinone helps in skin lightening by reducing melanin production, and Tretinoin works to speed up cell turnover to improve the skin's texture and tone.

How should I apply this topical gel?

Apply a thin layer of the gel to the affected area of skin as directed by your healthcare provider. It is usually applied once or twice a day. The pump mechanism allows for precise dosing. After dispensing, gently smooth the gel onto the designated area without rubbing harshly. Always wash your hands before and after applying the gel.

What are the potential side effects of this formulation?

Possible side effects may include mild skin irritation, redness, peeling, dryness, or itching at the application site. More severe side effects could be allergic reactions, excessive bleaching or skin discoloration, or signs of skin infection. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience any severe or persistent side effects.

Can I use makeup or other skincare products over this gel?

You should wait until the gel has fully absorbed into your skin before applying makeup or additional skincare products. To avoid any potential interactions, consult with your healthcare provider or a dermatologist for advice on which products are safe to use in conjunction with this medication.

Can I go out in the sun after applying this gel?

Because this formulation can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, it is recommended to apply a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and wear protective clothing when going outdoors. Avoid unnecessary or prolonged sun exposure, and do not use tanning beds while using this product.

Is it safe to use this compounded gel during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

The safety of this gel in pregnant or breastfeeding women has not been fully established. You should only use this product during pregnancy or while breastfeeding if your healthcare provider specifically advises it after assessing the potential risks and benefits.

How do I store this topical gel?

Store the gel at room temperature, away from heat and direct light. Do not freeze. Keep the container tightly closed when not in use, and make sure to keep it out of reach of children and pets.

What should I do if I miss a dose of the gel?

If you forget to apply a dose, apply it as soon as you remember unless it's almost time for your next dose. Do not double up to make up for a missed dose; just resume your normal application schedule.

Can this gel cause discoloration of clothing or fabrics?

Yes, the active ingredients, particularly Hydroquinone, in this gel may cause discoloration of clothing or fabrics it comes into contact with. To prevent staining, let the gel dry completely before dressing and avoid tight-fitting or light-colored clothing directly over the treated areas.

How long will it take to see results from using this compounded gel?

Results can vary depending on the individual and the condition being treated. Some people may see improvements within a few weeks, while for others, it might take longer. Consistency is key. Continue to use the gel as directed by your healthcare provider, and discuss any concerns about progress with them.

Related Formulas

Related Products
Formulas and/or material listed are not to be interpreted as a promise, guarantee or claim of therapeutic efficacy or safety. The information contained herein is not intended to replace or substitute for conventional medical care, or encourage its abandonment. Every patient is unique, and formulas should be adjusted to meet their individual needs.

No compounded medications are reviewed by the FDA for safety or efficacy.