Oral and topical medications
Oral and topical medications are foundational aesthetic medicine treatments that address various concerns such as skin irritation, hyperpigmentation, and hair loss by taking a dual approach from both inside and outside. When used under physician prescription with scientifically-backed pharmaceutical agents, synergistic effects can be expected when combined with procedures.
Recommended for
- For those who want to improve age spots, melasma, and dullness without procedures
- For those who want to stop the progression of hair loss (AGA/FAGA) with oral medications or promote hair growth
- For those who want to enhance results by combining with laser or light therapy
- For those aiming for beautiful skin with no downtime while continuing daily life
About oral and topical medications
Oral medications (pills) and topical medications (creams/lotions) are prescription drugs used in aesthetic medicine either in combination with procedures or as standalone continuous treatments to address a wide range of skin concerns including hyperpigmentation, dullness, acne, hair loss, and dryness. While they do not offer the immediate results of injections or procedures, daily consistent use can fundamentally improve skin condition and maintain results long-term. At Zetis Beauty Clinic, our physicians examine each patient's individual condition and prescribe the optimal medication type, dosage, and application method.
Main types and mechanisms of action of oral and topical medications
Tranexamic acid (Hyperpigmentation/Melasma)
Tranexamic acid is a component known as a plasmin inhibitor that works to improve hyperpigmentation and melasma by suppressing melanocyte (pigment cell) activation. A randomized controlled trial published in the Indian Journal of Dermatology (2015) reported that the group receiving topical treatment combined with oral tranexamic acid (250 mg/day) demonstrated significantly greater pigmentation improvement compared to the topical-only group (DOI: 10.4103/0019-5154.164416). Combining oral and topical application produces synergistic effects.
Kojic acid and hydroquinone topical medications (Hyperpigmentation/Brightening)
Kojic acid suppresses pigmentation by directly inhibiting tyrosinase (melanin-synthesizing enzyme). A comparative trial in the Indian Journal of Dermatology (2013) showed that when 4% hydroquinone cream and 0.75% kojic acid cream were applied to 60 patients with facial melasma for 12 weeks, both groups demonstrated significant pigmentation improvement; however, the kojic acid group showed fewer adverse effects (contact dermatitis) (DOI: 10.4103/0019-5154.108070). While hydroquinone offers potent whitening effects, caution is needed with long-term continuous use, so it is used under physician management.
Oral minoxidil (Hair loss/Alopecia)
Oral minoxidil is an agent that promotes blood flow to hair papillae through vasodilation, transitioning dormant hair follicles into the growth phase. A prospective trial in Dermatology and Therapy (2020) showed that when 30 male androgenetic alopecia (AGA) patients received 5 mg oral minoxidil for 24 weeks, significant improvements were confirmed in both hair count and hair diameter (DOI: 10.1007/s13555-020-00448-x). Additionally, a 2022 meta-regression analysis (Skin Appendage Disorders) demonstrated dose-dependent effects of low-dose oral minoxidil (DOI: 10.1159/000525137). Compared to topical minoxidil, a key advantage is that direct scalp application is unnecessary, making it easier to maintain.
Tretinoin (retinoic acid) topical medication (Anti-aging)
Tretinoin (retinoic acid) is a vitamin A derivative that improves wrinkles and pores by promoting epidermal cell turnover and increasing collagen production. Physician prescription is required, but when the appropriate concentration and usage frequency are maintained, strong anti-aging effects can be expected. Dryness, redness, and peeling may occur in early use, so gradual application under physician guidance is recommended.
Treatment flow and continuation tips
For oral and topical medications, consistency is key rather than immediate results. Generally, changes begin to appear in the first 1-3 months, with full effects emerging after 3-6 months of continuous use. At the initial consultation, the physician will confirm skin condition, current medications, and allergy history, then prescribe treatment tailored to the patient's needs. Follow-up assessments are conducted every 1-2 months to confirm efficacy and absence of side effects, with prescription adjustments made as needed. Combination with other procedures (laser, light therapy, beauty infusions, etc.) can help achieve even higher results.
Downtime and side effects
Oral and topical medications generally have minimal downtime with minimal impact on daily life. However, precautions vary depending on the medication type. With tretinoin topical medication, retinization (redness, dryness, scaling) may occur in early use but typically subsides within 2-4 weeks. With oral minoxidil, tachycardia and increased body hair (hypertrichosis) are rarely seen, so regular follow-up monitoring is necessary. With hydroquinone topical medication, contact dermatitis may develop in some patients, with usage duration generally limited to 3-6 months. If you notice signs of side effects, please consult your attending physician promptly.
Features
Prescription medications based on scientific evidence
The oral and topical medications prescribed at our clinic use ingredients whose efficacy has been confirmed in domestic and international clinical trials. Physicians appropriately select medications with clear mechanisms of action, such as tranexamic acid for melasma improvement, kojic acid for tyrosinase inhibition, and oral minoxidil for hair growth promotion.
Synergistic effects through combination with Treatments
Oral and topical medications enhance their effects when combined with laser treatment, light therapy, injection therapy, and other procedures. For example, continuing tranexamic acid intake after laser treatment for age spots helps prevent recurrence, and in AGA treatment, combining oral minoxidil with laser hair growth therapy accelerates improvement.
No downtime · Minimal impact on daily life
Unlike most procedures, oral and topical medications fundamentally have no downtime and can be continued while working or going out. Since prescription medications are used as self-care at home, continuous improvement can be expected while reducing the frequency of clinic visits.
Individual prescription and regular monitoring by physician
Unlike over-the-counter medications chosen on your own, a physician prescribes the type and dosage of medication individually based on consultation and blood test results. Through regular follow-up visits, we optimize prescriptions while monitoring for any side effects, thereby achieving both safety and efficacy.
Pricing
Oral and topical medications
| Treatment | Unit | Price (incl. tax) |
|---|---|---|
| Whitening oral medication (Tranexamic acid, Uvela, Vitamin C 2000 mg) |
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| Whitening oral medication (Tranexamic acid, Uvela, Vitamin C 3000 mg) |
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| Whitening oral medication (Tranexamic acid, Comprehensive fat-soluble vitamins, Vitamin C 2000 mg) |
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| Whitening oral medication (Tranexamic acid, Comprehensive fat-soluble vitamins, Vitamin C 3000 mg) |
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| Acne oral medication (Comprehensive water-soluble vitamins) |
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| Acne oral medication (Comprehensive water-soluble vitamins & Comprehensive fat-soluble vitamins) |
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| Roaccutane | 10 mg 1 tablet |
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| Roaccutane | 20 mg, 1 tablet |
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| Syneq |
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| Heliocare 360° |
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※ All prices include tax.
FAQ
How long do I need to continue taking oral and topical medications?
The duration varies depending on the type of medication and its purpose, but generally effects stabilize with 3–6 months of continuous use. For tranexamic acid intake aimed at improving age spots and melasma, 2–3 months is the guideline, and in many cases treatment continues at a maintenance dose afterward. Oral minoxidil for AGA (hair loss) is recommended for 6 months or longer, and stopping it may cause hair to return to its original state, requiring long-term management. Topical tretinoin use frequency is adjusted based on skin condition, and long-term use is possible. At your first visit, the physician will explain the treatment goals and timeline.
ZetithAIに続けて聞く →Can oral and topical medications be used together with medications prescribed at other clinics?
If you are currently taking any medications, please inform us of all of them at your first visit. Depending on the medications, there is a possibility of drug interactions, so the physician will prescribe after confirming safety. Including over-the-counter supplements and herbal medicines in your disclosure enables safer prescribing. Please note that with topical tretinoin, simultaneous use with skincare products containing peeling ingredients may cause excessive skin irritation.
ZetithAIに続けて聞く →I am concerned about medication side effects. What risks are there?
The medications prescribed at our clinic are those whose safety has been confirmed in clinical trials. However, individual differences exist, so attention to the following points is necessary. Topical tretinoin: A-response (dryness, redness, skin peeling) may occur in the initial stages of use. Starting with a low concentration minimizes the reaction. Oral minoxidil: Rarely, palpitations, headaches, and increased body hair may be observed. Since there is a possibility of blood pressure lowering, careful monitoring is especially important for those with naturally low blood pressure. Topical hydroquinone: There is a risk of contact dermatitis and, rarely, vitiligo (depigmented spots). Use according to the physician's instructions regarding dosage and duration, and consult immediately if you notice any changes.
ZetithAIに続けて聞く →How do I make a reservation?
Please make a reservation via LINE or phone. At your first visit, the physician will conduct a consultation, confirm your skin condition, medical history, and current medications, and explain the treatment approach. You can take prescribed medications home on the day of your consultation. Please feel free to contact us with any questions before making a reservation.
ZetithAIに続けて聞く →Consultations about this treatment are free.
Book / free consult via LINE
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