Library · Skin & hair · Skin brightening and hyperpigmentation treatment
Decapeptide-12 (Lumixyl)
Lumixyl, CG-TGP2, Oligopeptide-34
Synthetic oligopeptide developed at Stanford (2009) as a gentler alternative to hydroquinone for hyperpigmentation. Competitively inhibits tyrosinase to cut melanin production without harming melanocytes; used in cosmetic products for melasma, age spots, and post-inflammatory marks, with in vitro melanin reduction up to 40%.
Research score 85/100. Reference only, not a dose.
- Skin Health
- Melanin Production
- Photoprotection
- Anti-inflammatory
- Collagen Production
- US status
- Research Chemical
- Approval
- Cosmetic Use Only
- Evidence
- Demonstrated efficacy for hyperpigmentation and vitiligo. Particularly noted for safety in ethnic skin types where other agents may be cytotoxic.
- Research score
- 85 / 100
- Indication
- Skin Pigmentation Disorders
- Origin
- USA
- Source category
- Skin & Dermatology
- Status group
- Research chemical
Mechanism
Binds the active site of tyrosinase, blocking the conversion of tyrosine to DOPA and dopaquinone, and lowers inflammatory cytokines in keratinocytes without destroying melanocytes.
Safety file
Well tolerated topically; mild dryness, itching, irritation, or transient burning can occur, with no notable systemic effects.
- Well-tolerated with minimal side effects