Melasma is a chronic hyperpigmentation disorder that usually affects the face and is particularly common in women. Hormonal changes, sun exposure and heat often trigger or make it worse. Unfortunately melasma can be difficult to treat as it frequently relapses even after full clearance. Most of the time, melasma doesn’t tend to respond to over-the-counter skincare usually needing prescription treatments. In the UK, this was historically on available through specialist private clinics. However, in recent years, a number of online dermatology services have made it easier and more affordable than ever to access effective melasma treatments. In this post, we review the leading telehealth platforms where you can get prescription melasma treatments online in the UK.
What are Prescription Melasma Treatments?
Prescription melasma treatments target skin cells to directly control pigment deposition, inflammation and regeneration. These treatments aim not only to lighten existing patches of hyperpigmentation but to suppress the ongoing drivers of melasma thereby preventing relapse. The most common topical prescription treatments for melasma usually contain hydroquinone, topical retinoids like tretinoin, high strength azelaic acid (15–20%), mild steroids like hydrocortisone and tranexamic acid. These are typically used in carefully formulated combinations and often for limited periods. Rarely, some doctors may also prescribe oral tranexamic acid in rare cases.
How to Get Melasma Treatments in Person in the UK
Whilst some GPs maybe able to prescribe azelaic acid or pigmanorm, melasma and hyperpigmentation treatments are not usually available through the NHS dermatology. Private dermatologists can provide topical or oral melasma treatments. Aesthetic clinics mainly may provide peels or prescription skincare kits containing hydroquinone, arbutin and tretinoin. Although these services can be very effective, they are often often expensive and inconvenient.
Where to Get Melasma Treatments Online in the UK
First of all, it’s important to clarify that getting melasma treatment online does not mean buying prescription creams without assessment. Whilst a number of foreign pharmacies offer this, it is both illegal and extremely unsafe. Thankfully, there are a number of dermatology platforms in the UK where you can get safe and effective treatments. Below are the best virtual services where you can get melasma treatments online in the UK.
#1 City Skin Clinic
City Skin Clinic provides personalised topical cream and gel treatments for melasma following consultation with a doctor. Consultations are available via video or online forms. Treatment plans may involve a once daily or twice a day treatment depending on the severity of your melasma, skin type and goals. Your custom treatment may include ingredients like hydroquinone, tretinoin, azelaic acid, tranexamic acid and hydrocortisone depending on what your doctor deems appropriate. The same doctor will follow you up throughout your treatment journey and tailor each course of treatment based on your response. Treatments are delivered directly to your door and typically last around three months when used on the face. We do not operate a subscription model to allow flexibility and permit patients to order treatments when they need.
