Dark Tea Extracts for Skin Brightening: Dual Anti-Melanogenesis and PIH Prevention Mechanisms
Introduction Dark tea has gained increasing attention in dermatological and cosmetic research due to its rich composition of bioactive polyphenols, theaflavins, and polysaccharides. Recent studies highlight its dual functionality in regulating melanogenesis and preventing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), positioning dark tea extracts as promising natural agents for skin tone modulation and pigmentation-related disorders. Bioactive Compounds in Dark Tea and Their Dermatological Significance Dark tea contains unique fermentation-derived compounds, including theabrownins and catechin derivatives, which exhibit strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds play a critical role in protecting skin cells from oxidative stress and inflammatory signaling, both of which are key contributors to abnormal melanin production and persistent hyperpigmentation. Mechanisms of Anti-Melanogenesis Activity Research indicates that dark tea extracts can suppress me...