Jump to Section Introduction Discussion Arbutin Aloesin Flavonoids Hesperidin Niacinamide Licorice extracts Mulberry Polyphenols Ginseng Gingko Herbs used in traditional Chinese medicine Conclusion Conflict of Interest REFERENCES

During the past decades, thousands of plant extracts have been screened, and hundreds of compounds were identified as potential skin-lightening ingredients. It is clear that natural sources and extracts represent a repository of ingredients that can be used in topical treatments to achieve improvement of hyperpigmentation and the overall appearance of skin. More and more in vitro studies are showing that these ingredients may also provide additional potential for protective cosmeceutical use, through antioxidant efficacy and protection of macromolecules, such as collagen from UV irradiation. However, only a few have been incorporated into topically applied cosmetics or cosmeceuticals, often due to lack of parallel human clinical trials. The results of the research by these authors and others indicate the real possibility that natural plant extracts may offer the potential to significantly expand the choices for skin-lightening ingredients and address the need for better ways to treat hyperpigmentation.