Novel Synthetic Oligopeptide Formulation Offers Nonirritating Cosmetic Alternative for the Treatment of Melasma

Skin hyperpigmentation most commonly is caused by melasma, a cutaneous disorder associated with an overproduction of melanin by the tyrosinase enzyme. There currently are skin-lightening agents that areboth effective and cytotoxic, or slightly effective and nontoxic. The agent most commonly prescribed forthe treatment of hyperpigmentation is hydroquinone (HQ), a hydroxyphenolic compound that inhibits melanin production by inhibiting tyrosinase. In addition to topical agents, in-office aesthetic procedures `such as chemical peeling, lasers, and dermabrasion are used for the treatment of hyperpigmentation.These nontopical treatment modalities carry unpredictable adverse reactions. Lumixyl, a novel synthetic oligopeptide-containing formulation that inhibits both mushroom and human tyrosinase enzymes, has been shown to have more efficacy than HQ at similar concentrations without cytotoxicity. In-use clinical safety studies have shown a low irritation profile with no visible signs of irritation or allergic reaction and good tolerability. Studies and results suggest Lumixyl can be a nonirritating and useful, physiciandispensed cosmetic alternative for the treatment of melasma.