Dermatology Compounding

What makes dermatology compounding different

Dermatology compounding fills gaps the commercial market leaves. Since September 2020, over the counter skin lightening products containing hydroquinone can no longer be legally marketed, and one prescription product remains the only FDA approved drug containing hydroquinone [1]. That product is a fixed combination approved for short term use in facial melasma, and it is not indicated for maintenance [2].

Prescribers who need a different strength, a different combination, or a vehicle suited to a specific patient write for a compounded preparation instead.

How Mixwell supports these practices

• Custom strengths prepared to the prescription
• Several actives combined in one base, so a multi step routine becomes one application
• Anhydrous bases for actives that oxidize in water, such as ascorbic acid [3]
• Dye free, fragrance free, and preservative conscious versions for reactive skin
• Creams, gels, and ointments chosen for the site being treated

Vitamin C illustrates why the vehicle matters. Ascorbic acid is highly unstable in water and oxidizes in the presence of oxygen and metal ions, while an anhydrous formulation of 10% ascorbic acid stayed colorless and stable for 24 months at room temperature when protected from light [3].

Working with our pharmacist

Our pharmacist reviews the base, the packaging, and the storage instructions with the prescribing office, because oxidation sensitive actives need containers that limit air and light. Prescriptions should name each active and strength, the base, the quantity, the directions, and the intended course length. Batch records document every preparation, and finished preparations ship across California.