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Updated: Apr 17, 2026

Quantification of Hypopigmentation Activity In Vitro
Published on: March 6, 2019
Natural, semisynthetic and synthetic tyrosinase inhibitors
Sang Yeul Lee1, Namhuk Baek1, Tae-gyu Nam1
1a Department of Pharmacy and Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology , Hanyang University , Ansan , Gyeonggi-do , South Korea.
Abstract:
Tyrosinase plays a pivotal role in the synthesis of melanin pigment synthesis on skin utilizing tyrosine as a substrate. Melanin is responsible for the protection against harmful ultraviolet irradiation, which can cause significant pathological conditions, such as skin cancers. However, it can also create esthetic problems when accumulated as hyperpigmented spots. Various skin-whitening ingredients which inhibit tyrosinase activity have been identified. Some of them, especially ones with natural product origins, possess phenolic moiety and have been employed in cosmetic products. Semi-synthetic and synthetic inhibitors have also been developed under inspiration of the natural inhibitors yet some of which have no phenolic groups. In this review, tyrosinase inhibitors with natural, semi-synthetic and synthetic origins are listed up with their structures, activities and characteristics. Further, a recent report on the adverse effect of a natural melanin synthesis inhibitor which was included in skin-whitening cosmetics is also briefly discussed.
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