| abstract |
A cosmetic which suppresses not only the formation of melanin and the genesis of erythema but also the genesis of inflammation and, further, improves the retention of moisture to thereby contribute to the improvement of skin quality and the prevention of aging and which exhibits low stimulation and high stability. The cosmetic contains a 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid derivative represented by general formula (I) wherein R1 represents hydrogen, C¿1?-C20 alkyl, C7-C9 aralkyl, alkali metal or alkaline earth metal; and each of R?2 and R3¿ represents hydrogen or -COR4 (R4 being C¿1?-C5 alkyl, C1-C3 alkenyl, methoxy, ethoxy, etc.) provided that R?2 and R3¿ are not simultaneously hydrogen atoms. |