Effect of ginseng and ginsenosides on melanogenesis and its mechanism of action

Abnormal changes in skin color induce significant cosmetic problems and affect quality of life. There are two groups of abnormal change in skin color; hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation. Hyperpimentation, darkening skin color by excessive pigmentation, usually are major concerns Asian people with yellow brown skin. A variety of hypopigmenting agents have been used, but the treating hyperpigmented condition is still challenging and the results are often discouraging. Panax ginseng has been used traditionally in eastern Asia to treat various diseases, due to its immunomodulatory, neuroprotective, antioxidative, and anti-tumor activities.