Simultaneous Determination of α-Arbutin, β-Arbutin, Kojic Acid, Nicotinamide, Hydroquinone, Resorcinol, 4-Methoxyphenol, 4-Ethoxyphenol and Vitamin C from Skin Lightening Products by LC-UV

Abstract

Skin lightening products have become increasingly in demand in recent years, especially in Asian markets. Skin lightening products are expected to whiten the skin as well as to tone skin or to treat pigmentation disorders such as freckles, melasma, pregnancy markers, and age spots [1]. Arbutin (α-arbutin and β-arbutin), kojic acid, nicotinamide and vitamin C are commonly used skin-whitening agents in cosmetic products. Several studies showed that these agents were tyrosinase inhibitors [2]. Resorcinol is used for removing hard, scaly, or roughened skin. Hydroquinone, 4-methoxyphenol and 4-ethoxyphenol have been banned in the European Union for the topical use in skin lightening application due to the high incidence of ochronosis and leukomelanodema.