10 Most Common Skin Lightening Ingredients
by Editor


We have gathered the 10 most widely used skin care ingredients. Read through our list and find out which ones are banned and which ones are new to skin care.

And keep in mind when using a skin lightening product if you don't stay out of the sun then you will just be exposing yourself to hyperpigmentation or age spots, freckles again.







Hydroquinone
Aromatic organic compound; prevents or slows deterioration of cosmetics caused by chemical reactions with oxygen; used topically in skin whitening. Banned in EU countries.

Licorice Extract
Plant related to beans and peas; used as a skin lightener.

Kombucha
Fermented black tea from a fungus (some have mistaken it for a mushroom); helps to reduce sallow undertones in the skin.

Tretinoin
An acid form of vitamin A; treats hyperpigmentation from sun-damage; it is the best studied ingredient in the treatment of photoaging. Always wear a sunscreen when using any time of vitamin A.

Niacinamide
Is the amide of nicotinic acid (vitamin B3/niacin); some research has shown improvement in fine lines/wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, texture and red blotchiness.

Arbutin
An ether and a glycoside; it inhibits tyrosinase which in turn prevents the formation of melanin.

Melanostat
A peptide obtained by amino acid synthesis with a technique of Merryfield; counterbalances the formation of melanin especially the synthesis of tyrosinase (key enzyme involved in the process of pigmentation).

Azelaic Acid
A saturated dicarboxylic acid found in wheat, rye and barley; some research shows it to be effective for treatment of skin discolouration.

Kojic Acid
Heterocyclic compound; Inhibits the formation of pigment in plant and animal tissues.

Ascorbic Acid
Organic compound; vitamin C; inhibits melanin production; also used to combat fine lines and wrinkles.

Search our database for more beauty ingredients.