Potassium 4-Methoxysalicylate (4MSK) Exerts a Skin Lightening Effect by Acting on Melanocytes and Keratinocytes.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Hyperpigmentation is a common acquired disorder that can be a cosmetic concern for many individuals. To reduce and prevent hyperpigmentation, numerous skin lightening agents have been developed. Potassium 4-methoxysalicylate (4MSK) is a skin lightening agent that was approved as an active skin lightening ingredient of quasi-drugs by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare of Japan in 2003. For over 20 years, 4MSK has been widely used in quasi-drug and cosmetic products. However, the mechanism of action and efficacy of 4MSK on skin pigmentation and skin lightness have not been publicly reported.

Aims

This study aimed to assess the mechanism of action and the efficacy of 4MSK on facial pigmentation.

Methods

The mechanism of action of 4MSK on epidermal cell

SUBMITTER: Shirasugi Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11898116 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature