Regulation of skin lightening agents in the United States and implications for public health

Abstract

To the Editor: The popularity of skin lightening (also known as skin whitening or bleaching) products has grown markedly in recent years. Most agents function by inhibiting tyrosinase and thereby reducing melanin production. Examples of tyrosinase inhibitors include hydroquinone, arbutin, kojic acid, azelaic acid, and flavonoid-like agent.1 These products are often prescribed by dermatologists to treat hyperpigmentation disorders; however, many skin lightening products are also readily available directly to the consumer as cosmetic products.