Chapter 24 Dyspigmented Skin
Unwanted pigmentation of the skin is a difficult dermatologic condition to treat. Epidermal pigment is accessible to a variety of cosmeceutical actives, but dermal pigmentation does not reliably respond to any topical therapies. The cosmeceuticals available for decreasing pigmentation include vitamins, botanical extracts, penetration enhancers, and hydroquinone. None of these substances can reliably produce decreased pigmentation in persons of all skin types. Usually, a variety of complementary actives to lighten skin produce the best results.