Hyperpigmentation Breakthrough

Women around the world may soon no longer have to trade-off effective age spot lightening for skin irritation and discomfort. Previously, many of the most effective skin lightening agents have caused irritation and occasionally skin discoloration. A new ingredient, undecylenoyl phenylalanine, is promising a safe alternative for improved appearance of hyperpigmented skin.

In vitro testing shows that undecylenoyl phenylalanine works differently than other topical ingredients for spot reduction. Currently, niacinamide and N-acetyl glucosamine work by interrupting the melanin synthesis pathway. Undecylenoyl phenylalanine works as an MSH (melanin stimulating hormone) antagonist, preventing the melanin synthesis from starting. In vitro testing shows that the combination of undecylenoyl phenylalanine, N-acetyl glucosamine and niacinamide show an additive effect in reducing melanin production without damaging skin cultures.