Common Name(s): Terrein,terrein,aspergillus metabolite,melanogenesis inhibitor
CAS Number: N/a
DESCRIPTION
What It Does: Provides mitf (melanocyte-inducing transcription factor) suppression for melanogenesis inhibition at the transcription level — upstream of the tyrosinase enzyme targeted by conventional brighteners.
Why It's Used: Terrein is selected for its upstream melanogenesis control — suppressing mitf transcription factor before tyrosinase is even synthesised, providing a complementary and additive brightening mechanism to tyrosinase inhibitors like arbutin and kojic acid.
How It Works: Terrein → mitf promoter suppression → reduced tyrosinase/trp-1/trp-2 gene expression → reduced melanin synthesis upstream of the enzyme level (distinct from tyrosinase inhibition).
Typically Found In: Brightening,anti-pigmentation
TECHNICAL DETAILS
Primary Category: Active ingredient – antioxidant
Secondary Functions: Free radical scavenging,anti-aging
Application Areas:
Facial Skincare
Body Care
Hair Care
Beard Care
Color Cosmetics (Makeup)
Dietary/Oral Supplements
Typical Concentration Range: 0.001%–0.5%
SOURCING & ETHICS
Vegan Status: Yes
Halal Status: Yes
Source Notes: Plant-derived extract or synthetic.
SKIN COMPATIBILITY
Irritancy Rating: 1/5 – very low
Comedogenicity Rating: 0/5 – non-comedogenic
Sensitivity Concerns: Non-irritating; well-tolerated.
Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes
SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY
Safety Profile: Excellent safety profile. ewg score: 1.
Works Well With: Vitamin c,vitamin e,ferulic acid,spf,other antioxidants
Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities
SCIENTIFIC NOTE
Terrein combined with tyrosinase inhibitors (arbutin, kojic acid) provides additive brightening — mitf suppression + enzyme inhibition delivers dual-pathway melanogenesis control.
Last Verified: 2026-03-22
Primary Sources: Cosing database,terrein mitf suppressor brightening review