| abstract |
Cosmetic compositions and methods are provided, in particular for lightening the skin, using compound and derivatives of general formula 1 and / or II as skin lightening agents alone or in combination with other agents of benefit to the skin and together with a cosmetic vehicle : where each R independently represents a hydrogen atom, C1-C4 acyl group or C1-C4 alkyl group. Preferably, the compound is 4-hydroxyphenylpyruvate, that is, where each R in formula 1 is hydrogen. (see formulas I, II). |