Product description
This advanced cosmetic peptide ingredient competitively antagonizes the melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R), inhibiting melanogenesis at its source. Structurally analogous to α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH), it preferentially binds to MC1R on melanocytes, blocking α-MSH-mediated signaling, reducing intracellular cAMP levels, and downregulating tyrosinase expression and activity. By intervening at the signaling pathway rather than directly inhibiting tyrosinase, it suppresses melanin synthesis while preserving the normal physiological function of melanocytes. The ingredient also reduces melanosome transfer to keratinocytes, providing a gentle skin-brightening approach with excellent skin compatibility. In vitro studies have demonstrated a significant reduction in epidermal melanin content, while 28-day clinical evaluations showed increased skin lightness (L* value) and visibly reduced pigmentation.
The ingredient effectively improves multiple forms of hyperpigmentation, including UV-induced pigmentation, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, sunspots, freckles, newly formed acne marks, and periorbital discoloration. It also helps reduce dullness and yellowing associated with glycation and photoaging, promoting a brighter, more even complexion without uneven depigmentation or rebound darkening after discontinuation.
Its broad-spectrum antioxidant activity scavenges reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated by UV radiation and blue light, reducing oxidative stress that stimulates melanogenesis. By protecting keratinocytes and dermal fibroblast DNA, it helps minimize UV-induced collagen degradation, skin roughness, and yellowing. When incorporated into sunscreen formulations, it provides enhanced long-term protection against photoaging and UV-related pigmentation.
In addition to skin-brightening benefits, the peptide supports dermal rejuvenation by stimulating fibroblast proliferation and increasing the synthesis of type I collagen and fibronectin while mildly inhibiting matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). This helps reinforce the dermal support network, improve superficial dehydration lines, and enhance skin firmness, making it well suited for multifunctional brightening and anti-aging eye creams and facial serums.
The ingredient is free from acids, hydroquinone, and other harsh depigmenting agents, making it particularly suitable for sensitive skin. It also promotes filaggrin synthesis to strengthen the epidermal barrier, reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and improve long-term skin resilience. With its low-molecular-weight structure and excellent skin compatibility, it is suitable for all skin types, including delicate periocular skin and compromised skin following microneedling or chemical peels.
Manufactured under standardized GMP-compliant cleanroom conditions, the ingredient is supplied with complete quality control and regulatory documentation. It is ideal for cosmetic formulations targeting gentle skin brightening, hyperpigmentation correction, periorbital discoloration, and protection against photoaging.
This product is intended solely as a cosmetic ingredient for external use. It is not intended for oral administration or subcutaneous injection.