Hyperpigmentation is incredibly common and affects people across all skin tones. It can develop after acne, injury, hormonal changes or sun exposure often persisting for months or years. Although mild hyperpigmentation may respond to over-the-counter skincare products, persistent, deep or widespread hyperpigmentation usually requires something stronger to tackle it and maintain results. In the UK, many of the most effective hyperpigmentation treatments are prescription-only due to possible risks and side effects. This usually meant limited access to treatment for those unable to access private dermatology care. However, in recent years, a number of online dermatology services have made it easier and affordable to access effective hyperpigmentation treatments in the UK. In this post, we review the top telehealth platforms where you can get prescription-strength hyperpigmentation treatments online in the UK.
What are Prescription Hyperpigmentation Treatments?
Prescription hyperpigmentation treatments differ from over-the-counter brightening products because they directly act on the skin cells to suppress excess pigment production, reduce inflammation or increase skin renewal. Commonly used prescription hyperpigmentation treatments include Hydroquinone, retinoids like tretinoin or adapalene, high strength azelaic acid (15-20%) and tranexamic acid. These treatments are usually topical creams or gels. Occasionally oral products like tranexamic acid maybe used but this is less common. Because these treatments affect skin at the cellular level, they can cause side effects like post inflammatory hyperpigmentation, burns or ochronosis if used incorrectly. That’s why they are only available by prescription in the UK.
How to Get Hyperpigmentation Treatments in Person in the UK
Traditionally, prescription hyperpigmentation treatment required an in-person appointment with a specialist GP, private dermatologist or aesthetic skin clinic. GPs may be able to prescribe azelaic acid, adapalene or pigmanorm depending on NHS guidance. However, beyond this, hyperpigmentation is not something that the NHS offers specialist dermatology treatment for. Private cosmetic dermatologists can provide a range of prescription treatments including hydroquinone or professional treatments like lasers. Aesthetic clinics may offer cosmeceutical skincare or prescription at home treatment kits in addition to in clinic chemical peels or laser treatments. Whilst effective for some patients, in-person care can involve long waiting times, repeated visits and high costs. This is why online dermatology services have become a popular way to get hyperpigmentation treatments in the UK.
Where to Get Hyperpigmentation Treatments Online in the UK
Before we begin, let’s be clear that getting hyperpigmentation treatment online does not mean purchasing prescription medication without assessment. Whilst there are a number of foreign clinics and pharmacies that offer this, please note it is illegal and unsafe. There are many legitimate platforms that provide treatment only after review by a UK-registered clinician who will select the safest and most effective treatment for your skin. Below are the best dermatology telehealth services where you can get hyperpigmentation treatments online in the UK.
#1 City Skin Clinic
City Skin Clinic is an online skin clinic that provides personalised topical treatments for hyperpigmentation following consultation with a doctor. We offer once a day or twice a day treatment protocols depending on hyperpigmentation severity and your goals. Whilst we most commonly treat the face, our doctors also treat hyperpigmentation on other parts of the body. Treatments are custom made for each patient and may use active ingredients such as hydroquinone, tretinoin, azelaic acid, niacinamide and tranexamic acid where appropriate. You can choose to have either a video or online form consultation. The doctor will design a treatment for your skin concerns and goals taking into account any specific wishes or customisation needs you have.
Patients receive follow up by the same doctor, with adjustments made to future treatments based on response and tolerance. Treatments are delivered directly to patients and typically last around three months when used on the face. At City Skin Clinic, we do not operate a subscription model to allow patients flexibility to order when they actually need it.
