Comparison of 2% deoxyarbutin and 4% hydroquinone as a depigmenting agent in healthy individuals: A double‐blind randomized controlled clinical trial

Abstract

Skin whitening products market is a vast and rapidly growing industry which is estimated to worth US$ 31.2 billion by 2024. 1 The desire to obtain a fair complexion to achieve a certain standard of beauty has been in practice for ages in various countries and cultures. 2 In addition, this appearance also serves as an expression for the "good," "holy," and virtuous attributes in multiple religious worldviews. 3 As a result, it is not surprising that attempts to make the skin fairer, both through certain practices or products, continue to thrive and expand up until now.

Hyperpigmentation: Looking beyond hydroquinone

“…However, the efficacy of arbutin is related to the dose applied and at higher doses it may produce paradoxical hyperpigmentation. Synthetic versions of arbutin including alpha arbutin and deoxyarbutin show greater tyrosinase inhibition potential than arbutin 24,25 …”

“…Synthetic versions of arbutin including alpha arbutin and deoxyarbutin show greater tyrosinase inhibition potential than arbutin. 24,25 Mequinol (4 hydroxyanisole) is also a derivative of hydroquinone, which exhibits a competitive tyrosinase inhibition activity. Mequinol (2%) in combination with tretinoin (0.01%) topical solution exhibited 80% complete clearance of melasma at 12 weeks in melasma patients.…”

Skin lightening properties of zerumbone cream: A placebo‐controlled study

“…Participants in Group A were administered ZER cream on their right volar forearm while a placebo cream was applied to their left volar forearm and vice versa for Group B. The volar side was selected as the test site, considering it is more protected against UV radiation than the dorsal side, which would provide greater data accuracy 22,23 …”

“…The volar side was selected as the test site, considering it is more protected against UV radiation than the dorsal side, which would provide greater data accuracy. 22,23 Prior to the commencement of the study, a one-week washout period was implemented. The participants were instructed to refrain from direct exposure to sunlight and cease the application of any skin-lightening agents and skincare products at the designated test areas, as well as any oral supplements that may enhance skin conditions, for the duration of the study.…”

Using a Cellular System to Directly Assess the Effects of Cosmetic Microemulsion Encapsulated DeoxyArbutin

“…SCCS/1554/15) because dA releases HQ [ 6 ]. Therefore, taking advantage of dA instead of HQ to treat hyperpigmentation disorders of the skin may be a good way to utilize this effective skin-lightening agent [ 7 ].…”