Abstract

HERBAL COSMECEUTICALS FOR HYPERPIGMENTATION: A BRIEF REVIEW

Nabamita Sen*, Fowad Khurshid, M. Ganga Raju, Marpally Anusha, Govardhini Kasturi, Ramaji Gnana Jessica, Soudu Goutham, Medam Dhathri Sree, Nagankhera Neha

ABSTRACT

Hyperpigmentation is a common dermatological condition characterized by the darkening of skin due to excessive melanin production, often triggered by factors such as ultraviolet radiation, hormonal imbalance, inflammation, aging, and acne. Conventional depigmenting agents like hydroquinone, retinoids, and corticosteroids may produce adverse effects including skin irritation, erythema, and ochronosis with prolonged use. Consequently, there is growing interest in herbal cosmeceuticals as safer and more sustainable alternatives for managing hyperpigmentation. Herbal cosmeceuticals combine cosmetic and therapeutic benefits by utilizing bioactive phytochemicals derived from medicinal plants. Numerous herbal ingredients such as aloe vera, liquorice, turmeric, green tea, neem, mulberry, saffron, and sandalwood exhibit significant ant melanogenic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and photoprotective properties. Active constituents including glabridin, curcumin, aloin, flavonoids, and polyphenols inhibit tyrosinase activity and reduce melanin synthesis, thereby improving skin tone and reducing pigmentation disorders such as melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. This review highlights the role of herbal cosmeceuticals in the prevention and treatment of hyperpigmentation, emphasizing their mechanisms of action, efficacy, and safety profiles. It also discusses recent advancements in herbal formulations, including nanoemulsions, gels, creams, and encapsulated delivery systems that enhance bioavailability and skin penetration.

Keywords: Melanin, Nanoemulsion, Maceration, Phytochemicals, Nanocarriers.