Topical pigment protocols
Prescription topical protocols matched to melasma, post-inflammatory pigment, or diffuse sun-driven pigment.
Dermatology-guided care
Online prescription melasma and pigment care that starts with your pigment pattern
CutisRx helps eligible patients start a structured pigment visit online, with treatment pathways based on melasma vs. post-inflammatory vs. sun-driven pigment, history, photos, and safety factors. Prescription treatment is provided only when appropriate after clinician review.
- Prescription options when clinically appropriate
- LegitScript-certified platform
- Secure online intake and photo review
- Clear pricing before payment
- Available in eligible U.S. states except Alaska, Mississippi, and New Jersey
Diagnosis-first
Pigment is not one problem
Melasma, post-acne dark marks, sun-driven pigment, and hormonal pigment respond differently to different protocols. If the treatment does not match the pattern, patients often see partial improvement and quick relapse.
CutisRx starts by sorting the pigment pattern first. Your visit is built around what your pigment looks like, your sun-exposure history, what you have already tried, and whether hydroquinone-containing, hydroquinone- alternative, or retinoid-sensitive treatment may be appropriate.
How it works
How the CutisRx pigment visit works
- 01
Tell us what is happening
Answer a short pigment-focused intake about your pattern, history, sun exposure, and prior treatments.
- 02
See your pigment pathway
Review the plan direction and pricing before payment.
- 03
Create your secure account
Your information is saved so your visit can continue.
- 04
Upload photos
Clear photos help the clinical team evaluate melasma vs. post-inflammatory pigment vs. sun-driven pigment.
- 05
Clinician review
Treatment is prescribed only if appropriate. If online care is not the right fit, you will be guided accordingly.
Treatment framing
Treatment depends on the pigment pattern
Some patients need a hydroquinone-based short course. Others need a hydroquinone-alternative maintenance plan or a retinoid-sensitive protocol. Sun protection is required alongside every plan.
CutisRx does not promise a specific prescription before review. The goal is to match the treatment pathway to the clinical picture and the patient's history — not apply the same protocol to every pigment case.
Hydroquinone-containing protocols
For patterns where hydroquinone-containing topical therapy is clinically appropriate for a defined course.
Hydroquinone-alternative protocols
For patients who prefer or need non-hydroquinone options — azelaic, kojic, tranexamic, retinoid-based combinations.
Retinoid-sensitive options
Gentler retinoid tolerance builds for patients with sensitive skin or barrier disruption.
Sun protection guidance
Structured sun-protection guidance included with every pigment plan — sun exposure is the biggest single driver of relapse.
Fit check
Who this may fit
Good fit
- Melasma — patchy pigmentation across the cheeks, forehead, or upper lip
- Post-inflammatory pigment after acne, ingrown hairs, or irritation
- Sun-driven diffuse pigment or sunspots that keep returning
- Prior topical failures — hydroquinone tolerance issues, retinoid irritation, plateaued response
- Patients who want dermatology-guided prescription options without waiting weeks for an appointment
Not the right fit
- A new, changing, or asymmetric pigmented lesion (needs in-person evaluation to rule out skin cancer)
- Pigment that appeared suddenly with itching, bleeding, or ulceration
- Severe post-inflammatory pigment across large body areas that may need procedural treatment
- Anyone who needs urgent or emergency care
Start with a real pigment pathway
Eligible pigment patients may qualify for a topical first-month offer with code TOPICAL49: $49 the first month, then $89/month. Your plan and pricing are shown before payment.
No guaranteed prescription. Treatment depends on clinician review.
Frequently asked questions
What patients most often ask before starting an online pigment visit.
Can I get prescription melasma or pigment treatment online?
If online care is appropriate for your situation, the clinical team may prescribe treatment after reviewing your intake and photos. Prescription treatment is not guaranteed.
Do I need photos?
Yes. Photos help the clinical team distinguish melasma from post-inflammatory pigment, evaluate distribution, and confirm whether online care is appropriate.
What pigment patterns can CutisRx evaluate?
CutisRx can help evaluate melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and diffuse sun-driven pigment. New, changing, or asymmetric pigmented lesions require in-person evaluation.
How fast will pigment improve?
Pigment improvement is not instant. Response varies by pattern and skin type, and most pigment plans need consistency, sun protection, and follow-up to hold results.
Is hydroquinone required?
No. Hydroquinone is one option. If it is not appropriate for your history or preference, the clinical team may consider hydroquinone-alternative protocols.