This technology is a skin whitening composition that inhibits melanin production by containing octadecene or its acceptable salts as an active ingredient. It can be formulated not only as a cosmetic product but also as a pharmaceutical composition for parenteral administration or as a quasi-drug.
Melanin, which determines skin tone, is excessively synthesized when external stimuli such as UV rays increase α-MSH secretion, leading to higher expression of MITF and tyrosinase, which results in pigmentation. Existing whitening agents have limited efficacy or concerns regarding skin irritation, creating a need for a safe substance that directly suppresses the melanin synthesis pathway.
This technology enables octadecene to inhibit α-MSH-induced melanin production by reducing the expression of MITF and tyrosinase. With high human safety and minimal side effects, it can be applied to whitening cosmetics such as skin lotions, nourishing creams, and sheet masks, as well as quasi-drugs for improving pigmentation, making it advantageous for developing a wide range of whitening products using a single ingredient.
This invention was developed with support from the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology for research on the skin anti-aging effects of suberic acid via olfactory receptors.
WO2020-256381A1
