Therametics has recently discovered a novel botanically-derived chemical compound that inhibits melanin production in human melanocytes through two distinct mechanisms. First, this compound, called Therosol-E, reduces the synthesis of tyrosinase in human melanocytes by approximately 75%. Secondly, this compound blocks the melanin synthesis pathway at a unique site that prevents a colorless melanin intermediate from being converted into brown melanin. By blocking melanin production at two sites, Therosol-E is able to almost completely depigment human melanocytes The photographs on the left show the effect of Therosol-E on melanin accumulation in human melanocyte cultures. Note the high level of melanin in the untreated melanocyte cultures and the near total absence of melanin in the Therosol-E treated cells. The cells remain viable and dendritic, dividing at the same rate as the untreated cells,  but do not produce melanin.

A 2% concentration of this novel pigmentation inhibitor has been formulated into a topical lotion that also contained 2% salicylic acid to accelerate exfoliation. The formulation was subjected to clinical evaluation at several testing sites around the country. The photographs below show the effect of the topical lotion on hyperpigmentation in a patient that developed inflammation -induced hyperpigmentation caused by acne rosacea. The attending physician had been treating the patient with doxycycline with limited success. After one month of applying a topical Therosol-E lotion twice a day over clean skin, the facial improvement was dramatic. Not only did the areas of hyperpigmentation disappear but the anti-inflammatory properties of Therosol-E also reduced the severity of the patient's acne. Patents to protect this technology have been filed in both the U.S. and through the PCT. This skin whitening technology is available for worldwide licensing from Therametics. For information please contact Therametics at 405-319-8130.