Researchers discovered 2-mercaptonicotinoyl glycine (2-MNG), a new ingredient that reduces dark spots and uneven skin tone by blocking melanin production before it forms—without damaging melanocytes (the cells that make melanin). Unlike most existing brightening actives, 2-MNG works through a completely different mechanism and showed effectiveness when applied topically to human skin.

Scientists screened a large library of chemical compounds using high-throughput testing and computer modeling to identify 2-MNG as the best candidate. They then tested its effectiveness on lab-grown skin and actual human skin samples to confirm it works.

Funding not disclosed in abstract