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Cyspera in Irvine, CA

Expert Surgeons
4.9 Google Rating
Serving Orange County Since 2012

About Cyspera

Cyspera is a breakthrough topical cream that targets stubborn hyperpigmentation such as sun spots, melasma, and post-inflammatory discoloration. Safe for every skin tone, this cysteamine-based formula regulates excess melanin to reveal a clearer, brighter complexion. Patients who want an effective, non-irritating alternative to hydroquinone love Cyspera because it fits easily into their daily routine and delivers real, clinically proven results.

Procedure Quick Facts

Duration of Procedure:
Less than 10 minutes per application
Anesthesia:
None
Recovery:
No downtime
Results Duration:
Ongoing with consistent use

What is Cyspera in Irvine, CA?

Cyspera is an innovative pigment-correcting cream formulated with cysteamine hydrochloride, a compound naturally present in human skin cells. By limiting the enzymatic steps that produce excess melanin, Cyspera gradually lightens dark patches, brown spots, and overall uneven tone without the irritation commonly associated with traditional lightening agents. Unlike hydroquinone, Cyspera is non-cytotoxic, non-mutagenic, and non-carcinogenic, making it suitable for long-term use across all Fitzpatrick skin types. The product is applied to rested, unwashed skin for 15 minutes daily during an intensive phase, followed by a maintenance schedule. This at-home treatment pairs beautifully with in-office procedures for comprehensive skin rejuvenation.

What Cyspera Can Do for You

If hyperpigmentation keeps you from feeling confident in your skin, Dr. Mark Song and our experienced skincare specialists are ready to help. Together, we’ll craft a personalized plan using Cyspera alone or in combination with complementary treatments so you can enjoy the even, radiant complexion you deserve.
  • Safe for All Skin Tones
    Cyspera’s biocompatible formula makes it appropriate for every Fitzpatrick type, allowing patients of diverse ethnicities to treat discoloration without fear of hypopigmentation or irritation.
  • Clinically Proven Pigment Reduction
    Clinical studies show a 67% decrease in melanin within hyperpigmented areas and visible improvement for over 90% of users, offering confidence backed by science.
  • Non-Hydroquinone Alternative
    Patients seeking a long-term solution without the risks linked to hydroquinone or retinoid irritation appreciate Cyspera’s gentle yet effective action.
  • Convenient At-Home Application
    A quick daily application fits easily into your morning or evening routine, giving you professional-level results without frequent office visits.
  • Enhances Overall Complexion Radiance
    Beyond lightening dark spots, Cyspera promotes a brighter, more uniform skin tone for a healthy, youthful glow.
  • Complements In-Office Treatments
    Used before or after lasers, peels, or microneedling, Cyspera maximizes pigment control and helps maintain long-term clarity.

Cyspera Videos

Watch our videos to see real patients results, learn from our experts, and discover what makes South Coast Plastic Surgery a trusted choice in Orange County.

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Key Benefits of Cyspera

Targets melasma, sun spots, and post-acne marks without harsh bleaching agents.
Biocompatible formulation minimizes irritation while maximizing pigmentation control.
Clinically documented results deliver visibly brighter skin within a few weeks.
Easy fifteen-minute application seamlessly integrates into any skincare regimen.

Types of Cyspera

Intensive Phase Monotherapy

Ideal for first-time users or those with prominent dark patches, the intensive phase involves daily 15-minute applications for 16 weeks. Consistent use quickly down-regulates excess melanin and jump-starts visible brightening.

Maintenance Phase

After completing the intensive phase, twice-weekly applications maintain pigment control and prevent recurrence. This approach is perfect for patients who have achieved their desired tone and wish to preserve results long term.

Combination Treatment Protocol

For stubborn or widespread hyperpigmentation, Cyspera may be paired with chemical peels, lasers, or microneedling. Combining modalities accelerates improvement and offers comprehensive rejuvenation for uneven skin tone.

Not sure which option is right for you?

Meet your Cyspera surgeons

Cyspera treatments at South Coast Plastic Surgery are overseen by Dr. Mark Song, a board-certified plastic surgeon with a passion for skin health. Working alongside him, our highly trained aesthetic nursing team ensures every patient receives detailed education, careful monitoring, and compassionate support throughout their pigment-correcting journey.

Why Choose South Coast Plastic Surgery for Your Cyspera?

Beauty Inside-Out

We care for your inner wellness as much as your outer beauty. Every treatment is provided with warmth and exceptional care to help you feel confident and supported

Clear Expectations from the Start

Share your goals in detail before you even arrive using Adoreal's personalized assessment. Your specialist will understand exactly what you're hoping to achieve before your consultation begins, making your visit more focused and personal

Dedicated Follow-Up Support

Your care doesn't end when you leave our office. Our team provides personalized check-ins to monitor your results, answer any questions, and make sure you're completely satisfied with your outcome.

Precision & Artistry

Your treatment is performed by highly trained specialists
who understand facial anatomy at the deepest level. We combine technical precision with an artistic eye to enhance your natural beauty while keeping you looking like you

A Customized Approach to Skincare Procedures in Irvine & Ladera Ranchr

Your skin’s needs, lifestyle, and goals drive every recommendation we make. By carefully evaluating your pigmentation type and daily routine, we design an easy-to-follow regimen that delivers visible brightening without unnecessary complexity.

Before your consultation, you can complete a brief personalized assessment from home, helping us understand your specific goals, concerns, and timeline.

Physician-Led Medspa Environment

This personalized assessment ensures your consultation is tailored to your unique goals from the moment you walk in.

Our provider will also assess individual factors such as melanin depth, skin sensitivity, and daily schedule, along with your personal preferences to determine the best approach for your goals.

Am I a good candidate for Cyspera?

Ideal candidates have unwanted hyperpigmentation and want a non-invasive, science-backed solution. Your consultation allows us to evaluate your skin and confirm that Cyspera is appropriate for your goals and lifestyle.
Visible sun spots, melasma, or post-inflammatory discoloration
Good overall skin health without active infections
Commitment to daily application and sun protection
Realistic expectations about gradual improvement
Not currently pregnant or breastfeeding
Willingness to follow maintenance phase
No known allergy to cysteamine

Help us understand your unique goals & concerns.

This personalized assessment ensures your consultation is tailored specifically to you, with no obligation. Your wellness journey, our commitment.

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Your Cyspera Journey and Recovery

Comprehensive Consultation & Assessment

Your journey begins with a private consultation with Dr. Song or one of our expert nurses. This visit is focused on understanding what changes you'd like to see and whether Cyspera is the right solution for your concerns.

During your consultation, your provider will:

  • Examine your skin under bright lighting
  • Identify the depth and cause of pigmentation
  • Review your current skincare routine and lifestyle
  • Explain how Cyspera works and what to expect
  • Create a personalized application schedule

Together, you'll create a treatment plan tailored to your skin type, schedule, and desired outcomes.

The Cyspera Procedure

No anesthesia is required. You will learn the correct application technique in-office to ensure optimal absorption and comfort.

During the procedure:

  • Your skin is left unwashed for at least one hour
  • A thin layer of Cyspera is applied to targeted areas
  • Product remains on the skin for 15 minutes
  • Cyspera is removed with a gentle cleanser and the skin is moisturized

You will receive written instructions and product samples so you can reproduce the process confidently at home.

Cyspera Recovery Timeline

Recovery experiences vary, but most patients follow a similar general timeline.

Immediately after application
Mild warmth or tingling may be felt for a few minutes.

First few days

  • Skin may appear slightly pink immediately after washing
  • Dryness or tightness can occur; moisturize generously
  • Continue sunscreen use to protect healing skin

Weeks 1-2

  • Gradual lightening of superficial discoloration
  • Any transient redness typically subsides
  • Consistency is key—do not skip applications

Weeks 3-4

  • Noticeable improvement in tone uniformity
  • Pigmented spots continue to fade with daily use

You'll receive personalized follow-up appointments to monitor progress, adjust your routine, and address any concerns.

Your Cyspera Results

Cyspera results develop gradually, with skin clarity improving week by week as melanin production normalizes.

Early results
Subtle brightening and decreased redness can appear within the first two weeks.

Following weeks

  • Dark patches soften in color and blend more seamlessly with surrounding skin.

Final results

  • After approximately 16 weeks of diligent use, most patients see a significant reduction in discoloration and a more even, radiant complexion.

With ongoing maintenance and diligent sun protection, your clearer complexion can be preserved for the long term.

  • Days 3 - 5
  • Week 1 - 2
  • Week 2 - 3
  • Week 4 - 6

  • Month 2 - 3
  • Month 4 - 6
  • Long time

Cyspera Results and Safety Considerations

Understanding how skin biology, application technique, and ongoing care influence Cyspera results can help you set realistic expectations and feel confident in your decision.

Achieving Natural-Looking Results

Because Cyspera regulates melanin production rather than bleaching the skin, improvements appear soft and natural. The gradual fading process allows surrounding skin to lighten at a similar pace, preventing the patchy look some lightening agents create.

Results depend on the depth of pigmentation, consistency with application, and diligent sun protection. Our team provides detailed guidance so each patient achieves a balanced complexion that still looks authentically theirs.

Where Are the Incisions?

Cyspera is a topical product and involves no incisions or injections.

No incisions required

As a non-invasive treatment, there is no surgical scarring associated with Cyspera.

Is Scarring a Concern?

Scarring is not a concern with topical treatments like Cyspera. Mild redness or dryness may occur initially but typically resolves quickly with moisturization.

Skin Adjustment Timeline

Minor skin responses settle quickly:

  • Days 1-3
    Possible warmth, tingling, or slight pinkness
  • Week 1
    Skin begins adjusting; redness diminishes
  • Weeks 2-4
    Hydration and barrier support optimize comfort

Following our recommended moisturizing and sunscreen regimen helps ensure the skin barrier remains healthy throughout treatment.

Understanding Risks and Safety

Medical examination room with a treatment table covered in white sheets and various medical equipment against the walls.

Understanding Risks and Safety

Cyspera is generally safe when used as directed, but it’s important to be aware of potential side effects and how to minimize them.

Potential risks may include:

  • Temporary warmth or tingling during application
  • Mild redness or dryness
  • Skin irritation if applied to freshly washed skin
  • Allergic reaction in rare cases
  • Hyper- or hypopigmentation if directions are not followed
  • Sensitivity to other active skincare ingredients

Your provider will review these risks with you in detail during your consultation and explain how they are minimized through proper application and follow-up care.

Reducing Your Risk

Your safety is a top priority at South Coast Plastic Surgery. Steps taken to support a safe Cyspera experience include:

  • Skin assessment to rule out contraindications
  • Step-by-step application training
  • Comprehensive written instructions
  • Regular progress checks and product adjustments

By following the protocol precisely and communicating any concerns promptly, most patients tolerate Cyspera well and achieve excellent results.

How Much does Cyspera Cost?

The cost of your procedure will vary based on a variety of factors. During your consultation, your doctor will discuss your desired outcomes in detail and provide a fully transparent breakdown of all associated costs. Our practice helps patients achieve their aesthetic goals with a variety of financing options.

Financing options available through:
Book your consultation

Trusted by Our Community

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4.8/5 stars for 334 reviews / 90% word-of-mouth referral rate / Over 15 years serving Orange County

Dr. Song performed my breast implant surgery nearly 10 yrs ago with the ideal breast implant. I've had no issues in this time. I live on the other side of the country now, but I would've loved to come back for removal, since I'm on an all natural journey. I hope to find someone who can take care of me, keep me safe, & assured during & after surgery as Dr. Song & his staff did.

N. Snoozzz

Thank you Dr. Song. I’m 10 days post opp and am so happy with my experience with my mommy makeover! I can’t tell you how comfortable Dr. Song and his staff made me feel throughout this whole process. Surgery is a bit of a scary decision and sometimes I agonized about for years but I can promise you are in the best care with this team. I highly highly recommend them and am already so happy with my results !

Frequently Asked Questions About Cyspera

Everything you need to know about Cyspera, explained by South Coast Plastic Surgery's experts

About the procedure

How does Cyspera lighten dark spots?
Cyspera’s active ingredient, cysteamine, inhibits the enzymatic pathways that create excess melanin, gradually reducing the appearance of pigmentation.
Is Cyspera the same as hydroquinone?
No. Cyspera is hydroquinone-free and works differently, providing a gentler, long-term solution for discoloration without bleaching the skin.
Can Cyspera be used on all skin types?
Yes. It has been clinically tested across all Fitzpatrick skin types and is safe when used as directed.
How soon will I see results?
Many patients notice subtle brightening within four weeks, with more significant improvement after the full 16-week intensive phase.

Recovery & Results

Is there any downtime?
No downtime is required. You can resume normal activities immediately after each application.
How long do results last?
With proper sun protection and maintenance applications twice weekly, results can be maintained indefinitely.
Will Cyspera irritate my skin?
Most patients tolerate Cyspera well. Mild warmth or temporary redness can occur but usually subsides quickly with moisturizer.
Can Cyspera cause hypopigmentation?
When used correctly, Cyspera targets only excess pigment. Adhering to the protocol and avoiding overuse lowers any risk of hypopigmentation.

Safety & Risks

Is Cyspera covered by insurance?
Cyspera is considered a cosmetic treatment, so it is not typically covered by insurance plans.
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes. We partner with CareCredit and Alphaeon Credit to provide convenient financing options.
Can I combine Cyspera with laser treatments?
Absolutely. Using Cyspera before or after laser procedures can enhance pigment control. Your provider will create a safe timeline.
Do I have to avoid the sun completely?
Strict sun protection is essential. Daily broad-spectrum SPF, hats, and shade help preserve your new, even complexion.

Cost & Insurance

Is Cyspera covered by insurance?
Cyspera is considered a cosmetic treatment, so it is not typically covered by insurance plans.
Do you offer payment plans?

Yes, We partner with Cherry and CareCredit to offer convenient monthly payment plans for qualified applicants.

Still have questions?

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