Patent Publication Number: US-9883998-B2

Title: Methods for lightening skin using arbutin compositions

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 12/743,127, filed Aug. 3, 2010, which is a National Stage application under 35 U.S.C. § 371 of PCT Application No. PCT/US2008/083590, filed Nov. 14, 2008, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/003,015, filed Nov. 14, 2007, the entire content of each of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. 
    
    
     BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     In one aspect, arbutin-containing compositions for providing enhanced luminosity, brightening or lightening to the skin of a user are provided. In another aspect, methods of using the arbutin-containing compositions for enhancing luminosity, brightening or lightening the skin of a user are provided. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1A-B . Arbutin-mediated skin lightening is dose dependent. Skin lightening for 4- and 7% Arbutin formulations of Example 1 (A) and Example 2 (B) was determined using the b* parameter of the Minolta Chromameter®. The graphs were made by subtracting the baseline Chromameter b* value from the 4- and 8-week b* values for each volunteer and then averaging the delta b* for the study population at each time point. Hence, the graphs display the mean delta b* over time. A decrease in Chromameter b* parameter means skin lightening. (N=10). 
         FIG. 2A-B . The skin lightening efficacy was evaluated for arbutin-containing formulations. (A) The skin lightening efficacy was evaluated for the formulation of Example 1 versus bleaching and correcting cream (4% hydroquinone). (B) The skin lightening efficacy was evaluated for the formulation of Example 2 versus blender (4% hydroquinone). Skin lightening was determined using the b* parameter of the Minolta Chromameter®. The graphs were made by subtracting the baseline Chromameter b* value from the 4- and 8-week b* values for each volunteer and then averaging the delta b* for the study population at each time point. Hence, the graphs display the mean delta b* over time. A decrease in Chromameter b* parameter means skin lightening. (N=10). 
         FIG. 3 . Simultaneous use of a cationic toner and 0.025% Tretinoin with the formulations of Examples 1 and 2, in a system, affords improved skin lightening compared to the formulations of Examples 1 and 2 alone. Skin lightening was determined using the b* parameter of the Minolta Chromameter®. The graphs were made by subtracting the baseline Chromameter b* value from the 4- and 8-week b* values for each volunteer and then averaging the delta b* for the study population at each time point. Hence, the graphs display the mean delta b* over time. A decrease in Chromameter b* parameter means skin lightening. (N=10). 
         FIG. 4 . Skin lightening efficacy for the presently described system (including the use of formulations containing 7% arbutin) versus the Comparative System (4% hydroquinone). Skin lightening was determined using the b* parameter of the Minolta Chromameter®. The graphs were made by subtracting the baseline Chromameter b* value from the 4- and 8-week Chromameter b* values for each volunteer and then averaging the delta b* for the study population at each time point. Hence, the graphs display the mean delta b* over time. A decrease in Chromameter b* parameter means skin lightening. (N=10). 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     Arbutin-containing compositions in accordance with the present disclosure are useful for topical application to provide enhanced luminosity, brightening or lightening to the skin of a user. The present arbutin-containing compositions are at least 85% as efficacious (with regard to skin lightening, when used alone or in a system as measured by Chromameter® b* parameter values) as substantially corresponding compositions containing hydroquinone in an amount from about the same molar amount to about 1.5 times the molar amount of arbutin. By “substantially corresponding” it is meant that the compositions contain the same ingredients in amounts that may be adjusted to equate viscosity, where necessary. 
     In embodiments, compositions of the present disclosure contain arbutin and a unique mixture of ingredients that may include an aqueous phase and an oil phase. As used herein the term arbutin means hydroxy phenyl-b-D-glucopyranoside, a well-known compound having the general formula: 
     
       
         
         
             
             
         
       
     
     Arbutin is essentially hydroquinone with a D-glucose molecule attached. Arbutin competitively inhibits tyrosinase but does not inhibit cellular function. 
     The arbutin is present in amounts that provide a benefit to the skin of a user. In embodiments, arbutin is present in an amount sufficient to effect depigmentation. Generally, arbutin in amounts from about 1 to about 20% by weight of the total composition is suitable. In embodiments, arbutin is present in an amount of at least about 5% by weight of the composition, in embodiments from about 5 to about 10% by weight of the total composition. 
     The aqueous phase may include water, one or more humectants, one or more emulsifiers, one or more preservatives, one or more chelating agents, one or more reducing agents and one or more pH adjusters. Purified water can advantageously be used, such as, for example, de-ionized water or USP water. 
     Suitable preservatives for the aqueous phase include, but are not limited to methylparaben, sodium butylparaben, benzoic acid and its salts and esters, benzyl alcohol, urea derivatives such as diazolidinyl urea, imidazolidinyl urea, and 2,3-Imidazolidinedione (DMDM hydantoin), sorbic acid and its salts, and the like. Typically, the one or more preservatives are present in an amount from about 0.01 to about 5% by weight of the total composition, with individual preservatives being present in an amount from about 0.005% to about 5% by weight of the composition. In embodiments, the preservatives are present in an amount from about 0.05 to about 1% by weight of the total composition. 
     Suitable chelating agents for the use in the aqueous phase include, but are not limited to edetate disodium, EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) and its salts, for example, trisodium NTA (nitrilotriacetic acid), etidronic acid and its salts, sodium dihydroxyethylglycinate, citric acid and its salts, and combinations thereof. Typically, the amount of chelating agent(s) is from about 0.01 to about 5% by weight of the total composition. In embodiments, the one or more chelating agents are present in an amount of about 0.05 to about 1% by weight of the total composition. In embodiments, a combination of chelating agents is present, with each individual chelating agent being present in an amount from about 0.005% to about 0.5% by weight of the composition. 
     Suitable humectants for use in the aqueous phase include, but are not limited to polyhydric alcohols including glycerin, diglycerin, triglycerin, polyglycerin, polypropylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, hexylene glycol, 1,3-butylene glycol, 1,4-butylene glycol, ethylene glycol monoalkyl ether, diethylene glycol monoalkyl ether, glucose, maltose, sucrose, lactose, xylitose, xylitol, sorbitol, mannitol, maltitol, panthenol, pentaerythritol, and hyaluronic acid and its salts. It should, of course be understood that combinations of two or more humectants can be included in the present compositions. Typically, the one or more humectants are present in an amount from about 1 to about 20% by weight of the total composition. In embodiments, humectants are present in an amount from about 2 to about 5% by weight of the total composition. In embodiments, a combination of humectants is present, with each individual humectant being present in an amount from about 0.5% to about 5% by weight of the composition. 
     Suitable emulsifiers for use in the aqueous phase are surfactants. Useful surfactants can be ionic or nonionic, and they can be used alone or in admixture. Illustrative examples of suitable surfactants include cetearyl alcohol and sodium cetearyl sulfate, PEG-1000 monocetyl ether, or quaternary ammonium salts such as alkyl trimethyl ammonium bromide; polyol ester glycerol monostearate and potassium stearate, sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), and ethoxylated fatty alcohols constitute good coemulsifiers. Fatty acids like stearic acids may be included to regulate the consistency of the emulsion. Optionally, polymers such as carbomers also can be included. Particularly useful emulsifiers for use in the aqueous phase are sodium lauryl sulfate, saponins or combinations thereof. Typically, the one or more emulsifiers are present in an amount from about 1 to about 20% by weight of the total composition. In embodiments, the emulsifiers are present in an amount from about 2 to about 5% by weight of the total composition. In embodiments, a combination of emulsifiers is present, with each individual emulsifier being present in an amount from about 0.005% to about 4% by weight of the composition. 
     The pH of the aqueous phase can be adjusted to be about 2 to 4, such that the final product has a pH such as between about 2 to 4. Agents suitable for adjusting the pH of the aqueous phase include, but are not limited to citric acid, phosphoric acid, lactic acid or glycolic acid. Typically, the one or more pH adjustment agents are present in an amount from about 0.01 to about 5% by weight of the total composition. In embodiments, the pH adjustment agents are present in an amount from about 0.1 to about 1.0% by weight of the total composition. In embodiments, a combination of pH adjustment agents is present, with each individual pH adjustment agent being present in an amount from about 0.005% to about 1% by weight of the composition. 
     Suitable reducing agents for use in the present compositions include, but are not limited to ascorbic acid, propyl gallate and sulfites, including but not limited to sulfites, bisulfites, metabisulfites, their salts, and their derivatives. Sodium metabisulfite is one useful sulfite. Since arbutin has a tendency to discolor through oxidation, these reducing agents can be advantageously used because they have greater tendencies to oxidize than arbutin. Sodium metabisulfite has the added advantage that it does not discolor by oxidation. In arbutin and sodium metabisulfite compositions, it is believed that the sodium metabisulfite oxidizes first and delays the start of any oxidation of the arbutin, so that excessive discoloration is delayed or totally avoided. Typically, the one or more reducing agents are present in amounts from about 0.1 to about 10% by weight of the total composition. In embodiments, the reducing agents are present in an amount from about 0.25 to about 5% by weight of the total composition. In embodiments, a combination of reducing agents is present, with each individual reducing agent being present in an amount from about 0.005% to about 1% by weight of the composition. 
     The aqueous phase can be prepared by combining the various ingredients while mixing with heating (e.g., from about 70° C. to about 75° C.). 
     The aqueous phase can be mixed with an oil phase. The oil phase may include one or more emollients, one or more preservatives and one or more antioxidants. 
     Suitable emollients for use in the oil phase include cosmetically acceptable liquid oils. The cosmetically acceptable liquid oil is liquid at room temperature. The cosmetically acceptable liquid oil can be liquid hydrocarbon oil, liquid natural oil, liquid fatty alcohol, liquid fatty acid, liquid fatty acid ester, liquid silicone oil, and paste wax and mixtures thereof. 
     Non-limiting examples of the liquid hydrocarbons suitable for use in the oil phase include squalane, liquid mineral oil, and liquid polybutene. Non-limiting examples of the liquid natural oil derived from plants useful in the present compositions include almond oil, olive oil, sesame oil, safflower oil, avocado oil, cottonseed oil, jojoba oil, castor oil, soybean oil, palm kernel oil, coconut oil, and hydrogenated vegetable oil. Non-limiting examples of the liquid natural oil derived from animal sources useful in the present compositions include mink oil and egg yolk oil. Non-limiting examples of the liquid fatty alcohol useful in the present compositions are isostearyl alcohol, lanolin alcohol, oleyl alcohol, hexadecyl alcohol, octyldodecanol alcohol, linoleyl alcohol, linolenyl alcohol, lauryl alcohol and arachidyl alcohol. Fatty acid can be natural or synthetic, saturated, unsaturated, linear, or branched. Non-limiting examples of fatty acid useful in the present compositions are caprylic, isostearic, linoleic, ricinoleic, and oleic acid. Non-limiting examples of the liquid fatty acid ester useful in the present compositions are cetyl octanoate, glyceryl trioctanoate, isopropyl linoleate, isopropyl myristate, isopropyl oleate, ethyl laurate, ethyl linoleate, octyl dodecyl myristate, octyl palmitate, octyl isopelargonate, octyl dodecyl lactate, isotridecyl isononanoate, oleyl oleate, isostearyl myristate, neopentyl glycol dioctanoate, and di(capryl/capric acid) propylene glycol and mixtures thereof. Other suitable esters include triglycerides such as caprylic triglycerides, capric triglyceride, isostearic triglyceride and adipic triglyceride. Non-volatile, straight, and branched silicone oils such as dimethicone and phenyl dimethicone are also useful. Other cosmetically acceptable ingredients like sunscreens include octyl methoxy cinnamate, cinoxate, and 2-ethylphexyl p-dimethyaminobenzoate and the like. 
     Either one kind or two or more kinds of the cosmetically acceptable liquid oil can be used in the present compositions. It is further contemplated that oil phase materials may not be liquid taken alone, but may, upon heating and/or mixing with other ingredients, provide a component suitable for use as part of the oil phase. Particularly useful emollients include cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol and combinations thereof. Typically, the emollients are present in an amount from about 2 to about 25% by weight of the total composition. In embodiments, the emollients are present in an amount from about 5.0 to about 15% by weight of the total composition. In embodiments, a combination of emollients is present, with each individual emollient being present in an amount from about 0.5% to about 10% by weight of the composition. 
     Suitable antioxidants for use in the oil phase include, but are not limited to 2,6 ditertiarybutyl-4-methyl phenol (commonly known as butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT)), butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), tocopherol, tocopheryl acetate, ascorbyl palmitate, propyl gallate, and the like. Typically, the one or more antioxidants are present in an amount from about 0.01 to about 10% by weight of the total composition. In embodiments, the antioxidants are present in an amount from about 0.1 to about 2% by weight of the total composition. In embodiments, a combination of antioxidants is present, with each individual antioxidant being present in an amount from about 0.005% to about 1% by weight of the composition. 
     Suitable preservatives for use in the oil phase include propylparaben, isopropylparaben, butylparaben, and isobutylparaben, and the like. The preservatives in the oil phase typically are present in an amount from about 0.01 to about 5% by weight based on the total composition. In embodiments, preservatives are present in an amount from about 0.05 to about 2% by weight based in the total composition. In embodiments, a combination of preservatives is present, with each individual preservative being present in an amount from about 0.01% to about 1% by weight of the composition. 
     The oil phase can be prepared by simply adding the ingredients for the oil phase into a tank and heating (e.g., from about 70° C. to about 75° C.) with moderate agitation. 
     The oil phase can then be added to the aqueous phase (e.g., at a temperature of about 70° C. to about 75° C.) with moderate agitation. The present arbutin compositions can be prepared under an inert, oxygen-free atmosphere as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,229,427 the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by this reference. 
     The viscosity of the final arbutin composition can be from about 1,000 to about 50,000 centipoise (cps). In embodiments, the viscosity of the final arbutin composition is from about 2,500 to about 35,000 cps. The specific gravity of the final composition can be from about 0.5 and 1.5. In embodiments, the specific gravity of the final arbutin composition is from about 0.90 to about 1.05. 
     In particularly useful embodiments, the final arbutin composition may have a substantially white color and be a semi-viscous lotion. In particularly useful embodiments, the present compositions have the ability to substantially maintain its color over time. In such embodiments, the present compositions can appear fresh, elegant and professional for their entire shelf life, ensuring patient or consumer confidence in the product. 
     In embodiments, the present arbutin-containing topical compositions may include: 
     
       
         
           
               
               
               
             
               
                 TABLE 1 
               
               
                   
               
               
                   
                   
                 % by weight of the total 
               
               
                 Compound 
                 % of total composition 
                 composition in Example 1 
               
               
                   
               
             
            
               
                   
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
            
               
                 Purified water 
                 About 65 to about 85 
                 76.3 
               
               
                 Methylparaben 
                 About 0.01 to about 0.5 
                 0.1 
               
               
                 Edetate disodium 
                 About 0.01 to about 0.5 
                 0.1 
               
               
                 Glycerin 
                 About 1 to about 15 
                 4 
               
               
                 Sodium lauryl 
                 About 0.01 to about 5 
                 3 
               
               
                 sulfate 
               
               
                 Saponins 
                 About 0.01 to about 5 
                 0.05 
               
               
                 Lactic Acid 88% 
                 About 0.0 to about 5 
                 0.5 
               
               
                 Cetyl alcohol 
                 About 1 to about 25 
                 6 
               
               
                 Stearyl alcohol 
                 About 0.0 to about 25 
                 1.35 
               
               
                 Propylparaben 
                 About 0.01 to about 0.5 
                 0.05 
               
               
                 Butylparaben 
                 About 0.00 to about 0.5 
                 0.03 
               
               
                 Tocopheryl 
                 About 0.01 to about 5 
                 0.50 
               
               
                 acetate 
               
               
                 BHT 
                 About 0.01 to about 0.5 
                 0.05 
               
               
                 Ascorbic Acid 
                 About 0.01 to about 5 
                 0.45 
               
               
                 Sodium 
                 About 0.01 to about 5 
                 0.45 
               
               
                 metabisulfite 
               
               
                 Arbutin 
                 About 0.1 to about 15 
                 7.07 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     EXAMPLES 
     The following examples are offered to illustrate, but not to limit, the claimed invention. 
     Example 1 
     Purified water was added to a premix tank under nitrogen gas. The following water phase ingredients were added in the amounts indicated in Table 1 under gentle heat and were homogenously dispersed by mixing at about 70-75° C.: methylparaben, edetate disodium, glycerin, sodium lauryl sulfate, saponins, lactic acid 88%, ascorbic acid, sodium metabisulfite, arbutin. The following oil phase ingredients were mixed in the amounts indicated in Table 1 in a tank at about 70-75° C.: cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, propylparaben, butyl paraben, tocopheryl acetate, and BHT. All contents were then transferred under nitrogen gas into a jacketed tank where the oil phase and water phase were mixed and cooled in order to form an emulsion. All solvents were degassed with nitrogen before use and all formulations and intermediate formulations were degassed. The arbutin-containing formulation was transferred to storage containers that were purged with nitrogen both before and after filling of containers. 
     The composition identified herein as Example 1A is identical to the composition of Example 1 except that it contains 4% arbutin. 
     Example 2 
     Blender Embodiments 
     In embodiments, the present compositions are blending compositions designed to be blended with a composition containing an active ingredient (for example, tretinoin) to be applied to the skin. The compositions may include arbutin in a base composition containing water, one or more humectants; one or more emollients, one or more preservatives, one or more chelating agents, one or more pH adjusters, one or more antioxidants, and or more reducing agents. 
     Suitable preservatives for use in the blending composition further include: benzoic acid, benzyl alcohol, butylparaben, diazolidinyl urea, 2,3-Imidazolidinedione, isopropylparaben, isobutylparaben, methylparaben, propylparaben, sodium butylparaben, sorbic acid, or combinations of these preservatives. 
     Suitable chelating agents for use in the blending composition further include: citric acid, edetate disodium, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, etidronic acid sodium dihydroxyethylglycinate, nitrilotriacetic acid, and combinations of these agents. 
     Suitable emulsifiers for use in the blending composition further include: cetearyl alcohol, ethoxylated fatty alcohols, PEG-1000 monocetyl ether, alkyl trimethyl ammonium bromide, polyol ester glycerol monostearate, potassium stearate, sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium cetearyl sulfate, saponins, and combinations of these agents. 
     Suitable humectants for use in the blending composition further include: glycerin, diglycerin, triglycerin, polyglycerin, polypropylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, hexylene glycol, 1,3-butylene glycol, 1,4-butylene glycol, ethylene glycol monoalkyl ether, diethylene glycol monoalkyl ether, glucose, maltose, sucrose, lactose, xylitose, xylitol, sorbitol, mannitol, maltitol, panthenol, pentaerythritol, hyaluronic acid, and combinations of these humectants. 
     Suitable pH adjusters for use in the blending composition further include: citric acid, phosphoric acid, lactic acid, glycolic acid, and combinations of these pH adjusters. 
     Suitable antioxidants for use in the blending composition further include: ascorbyl palmitate, 2,6 ditertiarybutyl-4-methyl phenol, butylated hydroxyanisole, tocopherol, tocopheryl acetate, propyl gallate, and combinations of these antioxidants. 
     Suitable emollients for use in the blending composition further include: cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, liquid hydrocarbon oil, liquid natural oil, liquid fatty alcohol, liquid fatty acid, liquid fatty acid ester, liquid silicone oil, paste wax, and combinations of these emollients. 
     Suitable reducing agents for use in the blending composition further include: ascorbic acid, propyl gallate, sodium metabisulfite, and combinations of these reducing agents. 
     A particularly useful blending composition contains arbutin in a base composition of water, glycerin, cetyl alcohol, PPG-2 myristyl ether propionate, sodium lauryl sulfate, TEA-salicylate, lactic acid, phenyl trimethicone, tocopheryl acetate, sodium metabisulfite, ascorbic acid, methylparaben, saponins, disodium EDTA, BHT and propylparaben. 
     Suitable blending compositions may also be made in accordance with the ingredients identified in Table 2. 
     
       
         
           
               
               
               
             
               
                 TABLE 2 
               
               
                   
               
               
                   
                   
                 % by weight of the total 
               
               
                 Compound 
                 % of total composition 
                 composition in Example 2 
               
               
                   
               
             
            
               
                 Purified 
                 About 70 to about 85 
                 Purified water 64.35 
               
               
                 water 
               
               
                 Preservatives 
                 About .01 to about 1.5 
                 methylparaben 0.15 
               
               
                   
                   
                 propylparaben 0.05 
               
               
                 Chelating 
                 About .01 to about 0.5 
                 disodium EDTA 0.1 
               
               
                 Agent 
               
               
                 Humectants 
                 About 1 to about 10 
                 Glycerin 12.0 
               
               
                 Anionic 
                 About .01 to about 5 
                 Saponins 0.05 
               
               
                 Surfactants 
               
               
                 Emulsifiers 
                 About 0.01 to about 5 
                 sodium lauryl sulfate 2.0 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Triethanolamine 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Salicylate 1.0 
               
               
                 C12-C18 Alkyl 
                 About 2 to about 50 
                 cetyl alcohol 8.00 
               
               
                 Alcohols 
               
               
                 Antioxidants 
                 About .01 to about 10 
                 tocopheryl acetate 0.5 
               
               
                   
                   
                 butylated 
               
               
                   
                   
                 hydroxytoluene 0.03 
               
               
                 Reducing 
                 About .01 to about 5 
                 sodium metabisulfite 0.45 
               
               
                 Agents 
                   
                 Ascorbic acid 0.25 
               
               
                 Emollient 
                 About 1 to about 10 
                 polyoxypropylene (2) 
               
               
                   
                   
                 myristyl ether 
               
               
                   
                   
                 propionate 3.0 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Phenyl Trimethicone/ 
               
               
                   
                   
                 dimethyl polysiloxane 0.5 
               
               
                 pH adjuster 
                 About 0.01 to about 5 
                 lactic acid 0.5 
               
               
                 arbutin 
                 About 5 to about 10% 
                 7.07 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     The composition identified herein as Example 2A is identical to Example 2 except that it contains 4% arbutin. 
     The present compositions can be packaged in any type of container, such as, for example, bottles, tubes, vials and the like. The compositions can be dispensed by any suitable means such as, for example, pumping or simply squeezing from a tube. 
     The present arbutin-containing compositions can be applied to an area of the skin of a user daily in an amount sufficient to cause skin lightening. In embodiments, the present arbutin-containing compositions are applied in an amount from about 1 milligram per square centimeter of skin to about 15 mg/cm 2 . 
     Example 3 
     Use of the Presently Described Compositions and Systems 
     Ten volunteers between the ages of 18 and 60 years of age enrolled in the study. Volunteers included in the study were of Asian or Caucasian descent with a Fitzpatrick phototype III or above. Enrolled subjects were free of any systemic or dermatologic disorder, including a known history of allergies or other medical conditions which, in the opinion of the Medical Investigator, could interfere with the conduct of the study, interpretation of results, or increase the risk of adverse reactions. Moreover, volunteers had no clinically significant abnormal findings, based on their medical history, which may have affected study participation as determined by the investigator. Impaneled female volunteers were not pregnant (as assessed with a urine pregnancy test at the start of the study and every 4 weeks thereafter) and agreed to use suitable contraceptive methods throughout the duration of the study. All volunteers were willing to refrain from using any medications, moisturizers, sunscreens, fragrances or new personal care products/laundry detergents on the back for the duration of the study and were also willing to avoid sun exposure, on the back (ie, sunbathing), as best as possible and refrain from using tanning booths for the study duration. Furthermore, subjects agreed to avoid swimming for the entire study. 
     Volunteers that were excluded from the study were females that were pregnant, breast feeding, or have been trying to become pregnant for three months prior to the study or anticipate becoming pregnant during the experimental period. Also excluded were individuals with any known allergies or sensitivity to any ingredients in the test products or other clinical supplies that were used in the study. Volunteers were also excluded if they had received prior cosmetic procedures on the back (mole removal, laser resurfacing, chemical peel, dermabrasion, etc.) within six months of the start of the study. Individuals with sunburn on their backs or those whose activities involve excessive or prolonged exposure to sunlight were also excluded. Also excluded were subjects taking medications which might interfere with the test results, including the use of steroidal/non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics or antihistamines. Candidates with uncontrolled systemic disease, known infection with human immunodeficiency virus, active atopic dermatitis/eczema, psoriasis or history of any form of cancer were also excluded. Volunteers who were under treatment for asthma or diabetes or had a known sensitivity to skin lightening products or had a history of sensitivity to cosmetics or personal care products were also excluded. 
     All volunteers reported to the clinical site every day, excluding weekends, for application of study products in an open label, un-blinded fashion. Study products and dosing were as follows: 
     
       
         
           
               
               
               
             
               
                   
               
               
                 Product 
                 Ingredient 
                 Dosage 
               
               
                   
               
             
            
               
                   
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
            
               
                 Example 1 
                 7% Arbutin 
                 10 
                 mg/cm 2   
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
            
               
                 Example 2 
                 7% Arbutin 
                 10 mg/cm 2  or 5 mg/cm 2 ** 
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
            
               
                 Example 1A 
                 4% Arbutin 
                 10 
                 mg/cm 2   
               
               
                 Example 2A 
                 4% Arbutin 
                 10 
                 mg/cm 2   
               
               
                 Bleaching and 
                 4% Hydroquinone 
                 10 
                 mg/cm 2   
               
               
                 correcting cream* 
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
            
               
                 Blender* 
                 4% Hydroquinone 
                 10 mg/cm 2  or 5 mg/cm 2 ** 
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
            
               
                 Toner* 
                   
                 10 
                 μL/cm 2   
               
               
                 Cationic Toner*** 
                   
                 10 
                 μL/cm 2   
               
               
                 0.025% Tretinoin 
                   
                 5 
                 mg/cm 2   
               
               
                   
               
               
                 *commercially available from OMP, Inc., Long Beach, CA. 
               
               
                 **when used with 0.025% Tretinoin 
               
               
                 ***See Example 1 of Published U.S. patent application 2007/0269534A1 (the entire content of which is incorporated herein by this reference). 
               
            
           
         
       
     
     All subjects had 2 cm 2  squares demarcated on their backs, with a plastic template adhered to the skin, for identification of treatment sites. Subjects were treated with the formulation of Example 1, the formulation of Example 2, bleaching and correcting cream and Blender alone or as part of a system. Each regimen is described below: 
     Example 1A Formulation: 20 mg of product were applied once daily, Monday thru Friday at the clinical site, for 8 weeks. 
     Example 2A Formulation: 20 mg of product were applied once daily, Monday thru Friday at the clinical site, for 8 weeks. 
     Example 1 Formulation: 20 mg of product were applied once daily, Monday thru Friday at the clinical site, for 8 weeks. 
     Example 2 Formulation: 20 mg of product were applied once daily, Monday thru Friday at the clinical site, for 8 weeks. 
     Bleaching and Correcting Cream: 20 mg of product were applied once daily, Monday thru Friday at the clinical site, for 8 weeks. 
     Blender: 20 mg of product were applied once daily, Monday thru Friday at the clinical site, for 8 weeks. 
     The Presently Described System: 20 μl of cationic toner were applied first, then allowed to absorb for 5 minutes. 20 mg of the Example 1 formulation were applied next and allowed to absorb for 5 minutes. Finally, 10 mg of the Example 2 formulation were mixed with 10 mg of 0.025% Tretinoin and then applied to the skin. The presently described System was applied once daily, Monday that Friday at the clinical site, for 8 weeks. 
     Comparative System: 20 μof toner were applied first, then allowed to absorb for 5 minutes. 20 mg of bleaching and correcting cream were applied next and allowed to absorb for 5 minutes. Finally, 10 mg of blender were mixed with 10 mg of 0.025% tretinoin and then applied to the skin. The Comparative System was applied once daily, Monday thru Friday at the clinical site, for 8 weeks. 
     The safety of the formulations of Example 1 and Example 2 was assessed via Repeated Insult Patch Testing on 49 volunteers, in a separate study. All products used in the study presented herein were evaluated for safety through investigator scoring of the application sites at baseline, 4- and 8-weeks. In addition, all treatment sites were visually inspected daily, during routine application of test products, for any reactions. Skin lightening was assessed via use of the Minolta CR-300 Chromameter® at baseline, 4- and 8-weeks. Very briefly, The Chromameter measures color changes in the skin through three different color parameters. The L* parameter measures color changes from black to white, the a* parameter measures red to green and the b* parameter measures yellow to blue. An increase in L* and a decrease in b* parameters is indicative of skin lightening. The L* parameter, however, can be affected by erythema or skin irritation, thus potentially giving false positive or false negative readings. The b* parameter measures skin lightening only and is not affected by erythema or irritation. Data were reported as mean change in Chromameter® (b* value) readings from baseline. Skin lightening can also be measured via the Chromameter® L* value and/or the Individual Typology Angle (ITA o ), which is calculated using the Chromameter® b* and L* values. The Individual Typology Angle is described in Chardon A, Cretois I, Hourseau C., Skin color typology and suntanning pathways. Int J Cosmet Sci 1991; 13:191-208, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by this reference. 
     Both the formulations of Example 1 and Example 2 were subjected to RIPT and in-use safety testing. RIPT testing showed that 1 of 49 volunteers had a moderate reaction to the Formulation of Example 1. This is not surprising as the Formulation of Example 1 was applied under semi-occlusive patch. Moreover, it is likely that the SLS in the formula caused the irritation rather than the arbutin. On the other hand, in-use safety testing was conducted under open conditions (no patch) and resulted in no skin reactions. 
     When comparing application of 4% arbutin (the formulations of Examples 1A and 2A) versus 7% arbutin (the formulations of Examples 1 and 2), we see that 7% arbutin yields superior skin lightening versus 4% arbutin, at 8-weeks, as confirmed by Chromameter® b* parameter values (See  FIGS. 1A and 1B ). Hence, the skin lightening efficacy of arbutin, in the formulations of Examples 1 and 2 base formulas, is dose dependant. Chromameter b* values also suggest that both the formulations of Examples 1 and 2 may be better skin lighteners than the hydroquinone-based bleaching and correcting cream and Blender formulas (See  FIGS. 2A and 2B ). Concurrent use of a cationic toner and 0.025% tretinoin with the formulations of Examples 1 and 2, as a system, showed greater skin lightening efficacy as compared to the formulations of Examples 1 and 2 alone (See  FIG. 3 ). Moreover, the presently described system was shown to be a virtually equally effective skin lightening system as the Comparative System comprising a toner, bleaching and correcting cream (4% hydroquinone), Blender (4% hydroquinone) and 0.025% Tretinoin (See  FIG. 4 ). 
     As shown in  FIGS. 1-4 , the present arbutin-containing compositions provided skin lightening effects at 8 weeks that was at least 85% as efficacious (with regard to skin lightening, when used alone or in a system as measured by Chromameter® b* parameter values) as the hydroquinone-containing compositions to which they were compared. In some cases the present arbutin-containing compositions provided better skin lightening effects at 8 weeks (as measured by Chromameter® b* parameter values) than the hydroquinone-containing compositions to which they were compared. 
     As seen from the data presented herein, 7% Arbutin can be equally as efficacious as 4% hydroquinone, at lightening relatively non-photoexposed skin, when incorporated into formulas similar to the commercially available bleaching and correcting cream and Blender base formulas. This is an unpredictable finding given that the tyrosinase inhibiting potency of arbutin, in human melanocyte cultures, was previously found to be one-hundredth that of hydroquinone. (See, Maeda K, Fukuda M. Arbutin: mechanism of its depigmenting action in human melanocyte culture.  J Pharmacol Exp Ther . February 1996; 276(2):765-769.) Hence the presently described arbutin formulations facilitate the enhanced skin lightening efficacy of arbutin. Without wishing to be bound to any theory, it is believed that the presently described formulations enhance the transdermal penetration of arbutin (the molecular weight of which is more than twice that of hydroquinone) which may contribute to the improved skin lightening efficacy of 7% arbutin under the study conditions described herein. 
     It will be understood that various modifications may be made to the embodiments disclosed herein. Therefore, the above description should not be construed as limiting, but merely as exemplifications of embodiments. Those skilled in art will envision other modifications within the scope and spirit of the claims appended hereto.