Melanin is primarily responsible for the pigmentation of human skin. Melanin is made by melanocytes. Everyone has roughly the same number of melanocytes but some people make more melanin than others. Melanin is naturally occurring and mostly depends on the type and amount of melanin people have. Dark-skinned people have more melanin in their body than light skinned people.

Despite the skin color and type, hyperpigmentation is something that can happen to anyone. Hyperpigmentation occurs when patches of skin produce more melanin than the surrounding areas. This makes those areas more pigmented and results in an uneven skin tone. Hyperpigmentation can occur as a result of sun damage, inflammation, or other skin injuries relating to acne. Dark skin tones are more prone to hyperpigmentation especially due to sun exposure. Treating hyperpigmentation can be done in numerous ways but one crucial part of your routine is melanin inhibitors. Melanin inhibitors are ls known as tyrosinase inhibitors. When used in appropriate amounts, melanin inhibitors can help fade hyperpigmentation with time. Today we have compiled a list of melanin inhibitors you can introduce you our skin.

KOJIC ACID

Kojic acid is a chemical produced from different types of fungi. It is also a by-product of fermented soy sauce and rice wine. Kojic acid can visibly lighten sun damage, age spots or scars. It also contains antimicrobial properties that can help treat acne caused by bacteria in the skin. it is the second most common bleaching agent and a gentle alternative to hydroquinone.

AZELAIC ACID

Azelaic acid is a naturally occurring acid found in grains such as barley, wheat, and rye. Azelaic acid is also produced naturally by yeast that live on the skin. Azelaic acid is antibacterial and anti-inflammatory, it is effective in the treatment of rosacea and acne. It can also help the skin renew itself quicker thereby reducing pimples and blackhead formation. It also helps exfoliate your skin, brighten your complexion and visibly improve even and blemish free skin.

ARBUTIN

Also known as alpha arbutin, arbutin is a naturally occurring chemical gotten from bearberry plant. It is referred to as a derivative of hydroquinone, it is however much safer than hydroquinone. Arbutin can help fade scars and hyperpigmentation caused by sun damage and acne scars. It interferes with tyrosinase which helps produce melanin to brighten and even out your overall complexion.

LICORICE EXTRACT

Licorice extract comes from the licorice plant. Licorice extract has both anti-inflammatory an antioxidant benefits for the skin. licorice extract contains liquiritin, an active compound that helps minimize pigmentation by breaking down existing excess melanin.

MULBERRY EXTRACT

Mulberry extract is extracted from the white mulberry tree. It is a natural skin lightening agent that can help fade dark spots and pigmentation caused by sun damage and aging.

Article credit : Cocci Beauty