Skin whitening products are popular in some Asian countries, but many products lead to itching, redness, inflammation and other side effects due to toxicity. People, mainly women, lighten their skin, as lighter skin is viewed as a symbol of beauty, good health and high social status in countries like China, Japan, Korea and India. Many of the products on offer for whitening skins contain mercury, hydroquinone and other potentially toxic substances. Some ingredients increase the risk of skin cancer.
Hui-Min Wang and colleagues have found a promising herbal alternative from an evergreen relative of the tree from which cinnamon is sourced. Scientists have isolated two chemicals from Cinnamomum subavenium, which have the ability to block tyrosinase, an enzyme that controls the synthesis of melanin, the dark pigment responsible for colouring skin, hair and eyes. Inhibiting tyrosinase is a major strategy for skin-whitening. The chemicals have already been tested on zebrafish embryos, and turned their black band white within four days. Wang is next focussing on clinical trials of a new beauty product based on these chemicals.
Source: American Chemical Society
Click here for more research on fragrances and personal care products
Top of page |
