Skin Depigmenting Agents: Where Do We Stand?

Abstract

Skin hyperpigmentary disorders are frequent and psychologically disturbing conditions for patients. Skin depigmenting agents have been widely used for the treatment of such disorders. The most efficacious depigmenting agents, such as hydroquinone and the Kligman’s formula, are associated with long-term side effects, and safer skin depigmenting agents, such as kojic acid, arbutin, and niacinamide, might suffer from a significantly lower depigmenting efficacy. Therefore, there is still a need for safe and simultaneously efficacious skin depigmenting compounds. Tranexamic acid and cysteamine are two new and interesting molecules that seem to fulfill the majority of the needed characteristics of an acceptable skin depigmenting agent. In this chapter, a review of most important molecules as well as their side effects will be provided with a focus on the newest skin depigmenting molecules recently emerged into the armamentarium of hyperpigmentation treatments.

Topical isoniazid as a novel treatment for melasma: A randomized, double‐blind, vehicle‐controlled clinical trial

“…25 Studies have shown that peroxidase enzymes have the capability to metabolize isoniazid, which may contribute to the hypopigmentation that is sometimes observed in individuals taking the medication. 13 This inhibition of peroxidase activity could prevent the conversion of tyrosine to dopaquinone and, ultimately, melanin, leading to a decrease in melanin production. 13 Topical isoniazid was previously shown to exert skin depigmenting action in animal models.…”

“…13 This inhibition of peroxidase activity could prevent the conversion of tyrosine to dopaquinone and, ultimately, melanin, leading to a decrease in melanin production. 13 Topical isoniazid was previously shown to exert skin depigmenting action in animal models. [12][13][14] In a study involving six black male guinea pigs, daily application of a 10% isonicotinic acid hydrazide cream on one ear and topical placebo on the contralateral ear for 10 consecutive days resulted in a significant reduction in melanin index (p < 0.005) without any adverse effects or irritation.…”

“…12 Since isoniazid is a peroxidase substrate, it may be metabolized by melanocyte peroxidase, thereby reducing the number of hyperactive melanocytes in the skin. 13 It was previously shown that the topical application of 10% isoniazid as a pyridine derivative could significantly reduce the melanin content in the skin of lab animals. 13,14 In the present clinical trial, we assessed the therapeutic effect of topical isoniazid on melasma.…”

“…13 It was previously shown that the topical application of 10% isoniazid as a pyridine derivative could significantly reduce the melanin content in the skin of lab animals. 13,14 In the present clinical trial, we assessed the therapeutic effect of topical isoniazid on melasma.…”

Anti-Melanogenic Effects of Lilium lancifolium Root Extract via Downregulation of PKA/CREB and MAPK/CREB Signaling Pathways in B16F10 Cells

“…Melasma is a prevalent hyperpigmentation disorder that is frequently triggered by hormonal changes [15]. It can lead to emotional distress, diminished self-esteem, and feelings of frustration due to the noticeable visibility of the condition [17,18]. Addison's disease is a hormonal disorder that can cause increased melanin production.…”