JP2013173730A - Whitening composition - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a novel composition which shows very high tyrosinase activity-inhibiting action to be high in whitening effect.SOLUTION: (A) Vitamin C group and (B) gluconic acid are mixed together to prepare a whitening composition. Whitening action is shown by inhibiting tyrosinase activity.

Description

  The present invention relates to a whitening composition and an invention related thereto.

  Spots and freckles are a major problem in human skin, especially in many female skins. Spots appear as early as teens, and it is said that most people have spots in their 50s. The development of a whitening agent for preventing and improving such symptoms as spots is particularly important as people's interest in anti-aging increases.

  In fact, many whitening preparations have been researched and developed and are on the market. The mechanism of action of such whitening ingredients varies greatly. For example, the whitening effect can be obtained by inhibiting the stimulation of melanin production in melanocytes, inhibiting the production of tyrosinase involved in melanin production, inhibiting the activity of tyrosinase, or suppressing the polymerization of melanin. Is being considered. In addition, a method for obtaining a whitening effect by promoting the discharge of melanin by reducing redness by an anti-inflammatory action or promoting turnover has been studied.

  Until now, the component which exhibits the whitening effect with various action mechanisms as described above is known. For example, arbutin and kojic acid, which are well-known as whitening components, exert a whitening action targeting tyrosinase activity inhibition (Patent Documents 1 and 2). In addition, vitamins C, zinc and the like have been shown to exert a whitening effect through inhibition of tyrosinase activity, acceleration of turnover, and the like.

  However, ascorbic acid, which is a major component of vitamin Cs, has an unstable structure, is very easily oxidized, and soon browns, so it is considered to be a difficult component to use. Thus, attempts have been made to stabilize the structure by derivatizing ascorbic acid. However, since derivatization generally results in molecular weights that are 2 to 8 times that of the original ascorbic acid, it is known that the amount of ascorbic acid actually contained becomes very small even when the same amount as ascorbic acid is used. It has been. In addition, in order for an ascorbic acid derivative to exhibit a whitening effect, it is necessary to cut the portion of the derivative and return to ascorbic acid, but depending on the type of derivative, it may not be easily decomposed and may not exhibit sufficient effects. There are also concerns.

  Therefore, development of other useful means that can provide a more excellent whitening effect is required.

JP 60-56912 A Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 53-3538

  This invention is made | formed in view of the said prior art, and aims at providing the novel composition which can exhibit the outstanding whitening effect | action.

  As a result of intensive studies to solve the above-mentioned problems, the present inventors use (A) vitamin Cs and (B) gluconic acid in combination, so that they are significantly more than when vitamin Cs are used alone. The present inventors have found that a high tyrosinase activity inhibitory effect is exhibited, melanin production is highly suppressed, and the composition can be used as an excellent whitening effect, and the present invention has been completed.

That is, the present invention provides the following whitening compositions.
Item 1. A whitening composition comprising (A) vitamins C and (B) gluconic acid.
Item 2. Item 2. The composition according to Item 1, wherein the whitening effect is exhibited by inhibiting tyrosinase activity.
Item 3. Item 3. The whitening composition according to Item 1 or 2, which contains at least one selected from the group consisting of ascorbic acid, derivatives thereof, and salts thereof as the component (A).
Item 4. Item 4. The whitening composition according to any one of Items 1 to 3, which is a composition for external use on the skin.

The present invention also provides a method for enhancing the whitening effect of the composition and a method for whitening the skin, which will be described below.
Item 5. (B) Gluconic acid is mix | blended with (A) vitamin Cs to the whitening composition, The method of heightening the whitening effect | action of this composition characterized by the above-mentioned.
Item 6. (A) Vitamin C and (B) Gluconic acid are used together, The skin whitening method characterized by the above-mentioned.

The present invention also provides a whitening effect enhancer described below.
Item 7. (B) A whitening enhancer for vitamin C, comprising gluconic acid.
The present invention further provides the uses listed below.
Item 8. Use of (A) vitamin C and (B) gluconic acid in the manufacture of a whitening composition.

  According to the present invention, there is provided a practically extremely useful novel composition that exhibits a significantly higher tyrosinase activity inhibitory action and can obtain a high whitening effect than when vitamin C is used alone.

1 is a graph showing the results of a tyrosinase activity inhibition test in Test Example 1. FIG. FIG. 2 is a graph showing the results of suppression of melanin production in the melanocyte-containing human three-dimensional cultured epidermis model test of Test Example 2.

Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail.
[1] Whitening composition:
The whitening composition of the present invention contains (A) vitamin Cs and (B) gluconic acid.
(A) Vitamin C:
Vitamin Cs used in the present invention [hereinafter also simply referred to as component (A). ] Is not particularly limited as long as it is pharmaceutically or physiologically acceptable, and includes ascorbic acid, derivatives thereof, and salts thereof. Vitamin Cs may be obtained by synthesis, or commercially available products can also be used.

  Ascorbic acid derivatives include ester derivatives of ascorbic acid and acids such as phosphoric acid, sulfuric acid, sulfonic acid, carboxylic acid (eg, aliphatic carboxylic acid, aromatic carboxylic acid, etc.); hydrogen of hydroxy group of ascorbic acid An atom is an alkyl group (for example, an alkyl group having 1 to 22 carbon atoms), an alkenyl group (for example, an alkenyl group having 2 to 12 carbon atoms), an aryl group (for example, an aryl group having 6 to 12 carbon atoms), a sugar residue And ether derivatives substituted with, and the like. Here, phosphoric acid, sulfuric acid, sulfonic acid, and carboxylic acid forming ester derivatives are monoesters (for example, phosphoric monoesters such as monoalkyl phosphates; sulfuric monoesters such as monoalkyl sulfates) and diesters. (For example, phosphoric acid diesters such as phosphoric acid dialkyl esters), alkyl groups (for example, alkyl groups having 1 to 6 carbon atoms) and alkoxy groups (for example, alkoxy groups having 1 to 6 carbon atoms) Etc.), an acyl group (for example, an acyl group having 1 to 7 carbon atoms), a halogen atom, an amino group, a hydroxy group, an oxo group, a phenyl group and the like. Similarly, an alkyl group, an alkenyl group, an aryl group, a sugar residue and the like forming an ether derivative may also be substituted with the above-described substituent.

  More specifically, examples of ascorbic acid derivatives include ester derivatives of ascorbic acid and phosphoric acid, such as ascorbic acid monophosphate, ascorbic acid diphosphate, ascorbyl triphosphate; ascorbic acid-2-sulfate Ascorbic acid and sulfuric acid ester derivatives such as ascorbic acid-2-sulfonic acid ester and other ascorbic acid and sulfonic acid ester derivatives; ascorbyl palmitate, ascorbyl stearate, ascorbyl dipalmitate, ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate ( Ester derivatives of ascorbic acid and carboxylic acid, such as VCIP); ascorbyl-2-phosphate-6-palmitate (APPS), (ascorbyl / tocopheryl) phosphate, ascorbyl aminopro Ester derivatives such as ethyl; ascorbate (for example, 2-O-ethylascorbic acid, 3-O-ethylascorbic acid), 3-O-cetylascorbic acid, methylsilanol ascorbate, ascorbyl glucoside (for example, ascorbic acid 2 -Derivativescorbic acid and the like, including but not limited to ether derivatives such as -glucoside). In general, it is known that ascorbic acid derivatives are superior in stability in preparation and permeability to skin as compared to non-derivatized ascorbic acid. However, by derivatization, the molecular weight may increase and the amount of ascorbic acid itself actually contained may become very small, and it is not easily decomposed in vivo, and ascorbic acid itself has sufficient physiological activity. It is known that the effect may not be exhibited. However, as shown in the test examples described later, the whitening composition of the present invention can exhibit a high tyrosinase activity inhibitory activity by including the component (B) described later together. Even when using a derivative of ascorbic acid, which is feared to be sufficiently exerted, it is extremely beneficial because a high whitening effect can be obtained.

  Examples of salts of ascorbic acid or ascorbic acid derivatives include various metals such as alkali metal salts such as sodium and potassium, alkaline earth metal salts such as magnesium, calcium and barium, and polyvalent metal salts such as zinc and aluminum. Salts; ammonium salts such as ammonium and tricyclohexylammonium; various alkanolamine salts such as monoethanolamine, diethanolamine, triethanolamine, monoisopropanolamine, diisopropanolamine, triisopropanolamine; chitosan salts and the like can be used. A metal salt is preferable, an alkali metal salt or an alkaline earth metal salt is more preferable, an alkali metal salt is further preferable, and a sodium salt is particularly preferable.

  More specifically, examples of salts of ascorbic acid or ascorbic acid derivatives include sodium ascorbyl phosphate, disodium ascorbate sulfate, calcium ascorbate, magnesium ascorbate, sodium ascorbate, zinc ascorbate, chitosan ascorbic acid, phosphorus Examples include, but are not limited to, magnesium ascorbyl acid, trisodium ascorbyl palmitate, potassium (ascorbyl / tocopheryl) phosphate, and the like.

  In the whitening composition of the present invention, one of these vitamin Cs may be used alone, or two or more may be used in any combination.

  Among the components (A), ascorbyl phosphate and (ascorbyl / tocopheryl) phosphate are preferable from the viewpoint that a higher whitening effect can be obtained more effectively together with the component (B) described later. Potassium, ascorbic acid, ethyl ascorbate (for example, 2-O-ethylascorbic acid, 3-O-ethylascorbic acid), 3-O-cetylascorbic acid, ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate, methylsilanol ascorbate, sulfuric acid ascorbate , Ascorbyl glucoside (for example, ascorbic acid 2-glucoside), ascorbyl palmitate, ascorbyl dipalmitate, ascorbyl aminopropyl phosphate, ascorbyl stearate, dehydroascorbic acid, or a salt thereof, more preferably ascorbic. Examples include bilphosphate, ascorbyl glucoside, ethyl ascorbate, or salts thereof, more preferably ascorbyl phosphate or a salt thereof (for example, sodium salt), and particularly preferably sodium ascorbyl phosphate (also known as ascorbyl phosphate). Also referred to as sodium).

  The blending ratio of the component (A) in the whitening composition of the present invention is not particularly limited and can be appropriately set according to the type of the component (A). For example, the blending ratio of the component (A) is 0.01 to 30% by weight, preferably 0.1 to 20% by weight, and more preferably 0.5 to 10% by weight with respect to the entire composition. If the blending ratio of the component (A) with respect to the entire whitening composition is small, it may be difficult to obtain a sufficient whitening effect, which is not preferable. Moreover, when the blending ratio of the component (A) is too large, irritation may be felt when applied to the skin or the like, which is not preferable.

(B) Gluconic acid:
Gluconic acid used in the present invention [hereinafter also simply referred to as component (B). ] Is a known compound as a kind of aldonic acid. Gluconic acid may be obtained by synthesis or a commercially available product can be used.

  The blending ratio of the component (B) in the whitening composition of the present invention is not particularly limited, and can be appropriately set according to the type of the component (B). For example, the blending ratio of the component (B) is 0.01 to 30% by weight with respect to the entire composition. From the viewpoint that the whitening effect can be more effectively exhibited together with the component (A), the blending ratio of the component (B) is preferably 0.05 to 20% by weight based on the entire composition, More preferably, it is 0.1 to 10% by weight.

  The blending ratio of the component (A) and the component (B) in the whitening composition of the present invention is not particularly limited, but from the viewpoint of obtaining a higher effect of the present application, the component (A) is preferable. Is a range in which the component (B) is 0.001 to 15 parts by weight, more preferably 0.01 to 10 parts by weight, and particularly preferably 0.05 to 7 parts by weight with respect to 1 part by weight.

  The whitening composition of the present invention preferably further contains an antioxidant component. By further combining the antioxidant component with the components (A) and (B), a higher whitening effect can be obtained.

  Such an antioxidant component is not particularly limited as long as it is pharmaceutically or physiologically acceptable. For example, vitamin E, sodium pyrosulfite, sodium bisulfite, butylhydroxyanisole, dibutylhydroxytoluene, flavonoid, Examples include glutathione, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione-S-transferase, catalase, superoxide dismutase, thioredoxin, taurine, thiotaurine, and hypotaurine. Also, evening primrose, snowy shore, amateur, turmeric, ages, pear, ogon, hypericum, gobaishi, gentian, rice, rice bran, comfrey, salamander, perilla, peonies, soybean, natto, tea, clove, loquat, button, maroni , Plant components (for example, plant extracts and essential oils) having an antioxidant effect such as rooibos, rosemary, spirulina, chlorella, donariella and the like can also be used.

  From the viewpoint that a higher whitening effect can be exhibited, it is particularly preferable to blend vitamin Es, sodium pyrosulfite, evening primrose extract, yukinoshita extract and the like as antioxidant components. Here, as vitamin E, tocopherol, tocotrienol, and derivatives thereof, and salts thereof are included. Derivatives and salts of vitamin E include derivatives (ester derivatives, ether derivatives, etc.) and salts similar to those of vitamin C. Preferably, the vitamin E is dl-α-tocopheryl sodium phosphate.

  When the antioxidant component is blended in the whitening composition of the present invention, the blending amount is not particularly limited, but is preferably 0.01% with respect to the entire composition from the viewpoint that a higher whitening effect can be exhibited. ˜10 wt%, more preferably 0.01˜5 wt%.

  Furthermore, the whitening composition of the present invention preferably contains an anti-inflammatory component. In combination with the above components (A) and (B), an anti-inflammatory component is further combined to reduce the redness of the skin due to anti-inflammatory action (for example, to suppress redness by suppressing acne inflammation) and higher A whitening effect can be obtained.

  Such an anti-inflammatory component is not particularly limited as long as it is pharmaceutically or physiologically acceptable. For example, glycyrrhizic acid, glycyrrhetinic acid, salicylic acid, zinc oxide, guaiazulene, pyridoxine hydrochloride, menthol, camphor, turpentine Examples thereof include oil, indomethacin, allantoin, and calamine. Preferred are glycyrrhizic acids, glycyrrhetinic acids, and salicylic acids, and more preferred are glycyrrhizic acids and salicylic acids. Here, the glycyrrhizic acids and salicylic acids include glycyrrhizic acid and salicylic acid derivatives and salts thereof, in addition to glycyrrhizic acid and salicylic acid. Ester derivatives, ether derivatives, etc.) and salt forms. Particularly preferably, the anti-inflammatory component is dipotassium glycyrrhizinate and salicylic acid.

  When the anti-inflammatory component is blended in the whitening composition of the present invention, the blending amount is not particularly limited, but from the viewpoint that a higher effect can be exhibited, it is preferably 0.01 to the entire composition. The content is 10% by weight, more preferably 0.01 to 5% by weight.

  The whitening composition of the present invention may contain a further whitening component other than the combination of the component (A) and the component (B). As shown in the test examples described later, it has been confirmed that the whitening effect of (A) vitamin C is remarkably enhanced by using (B) gluconic acid in combination. Therefore, it can be expected that the whitening action of other whitening components, particularly the whitening action of the whitening component that exerts the effect through the tyrosinase activity inhibiting action, is enhanced by using the component (B) in combination.

  Examples of such whitening components include placenta; arbutin; kojic acid; ellagic acid; phytic acid; tranexamic acid; lucinol; chamomile ET; 4-methoxysalicylic acid potassium salt; 5,5′-dipropyl-biphenyl-2,2 '-Diol; adenosine monophosphate disodium; vitamins such as vitamin A, vitamin E (for example, δ tocopherol, γ tocopherol, β tocopherol, α tocopherol), pantothenic acids and the like. Furthermore, a plant component having a whitening effect may be used as a whitening component. Examples of such plant components include Iris (Iris), Almond, Aloe, Ginkgo, Oolong Tea, Ages, Ogon, Ouren, Hypericum, Adriatic, Seaweed, Cuckoo, Gardenia, Kujin, Chlorella, Gobaishi, Wheat, Rice, Rice Haiga, Oryzanol, Rice bran, Saisin, Salamander, Perilla, Peonies, Senkyu, Sakuhakuhi, Soybean, Natto, Tea, Toki, Tokinsenka, Garlic, Hammelis, Safflower, Buttonpi, Yokuinin, Toki, Amethyst, Asenyaku, Acebi, Bracken, Eustoma, Enoki, Oyster (Diospyros kaki), Cattle, Black Bean, Gentian, Genzin, Salsa, Sweet Bean, Shouma, Juju, Sage, Zenko, Daikon, Tsu Di, Tsukushihagi, Toshishi, quassia, parsley, holly, hop, Marubahagi, clove, include components derived from plants such as the liver. When these plant components are used, the form of the plant component is not particularly limited, but can usually be used in the form of a plant extract (plant extract) or an essential oil. In addition, the inside of () described in the said plant component is the scientific name of the plant, an alias, or a crude drug name.

  As described above, when a whitening component other than the combination of the component (A) and the component (B) is added to the whitening composition of the present invention, the amount used is appropriately selected in consideration of the feeling of use and effects. For example, it is about 0.0003 to 10% by weight, preferably about 0.01 to 5% by weight, based on the whole whitening composition. The amount used in the case of using a plant extract is about 0.00001 to 20% by weight, preferably about 0.0001 to 15% by weight, more preferably 0.001 to 10% with respect to the whole whitening composition in terms of an extract such as an extract. % By weight.

  In addition to the above-described components, the whitening composition of the present invention has other antibacterial components, cell activation components, astringent components, acne-improving components, anti-aging components, and moisturizing components in order to add other useful effects. , Keratin soft component, blood circulation promoting component, biological component (collagen, hyaluronic acid, etc.) synthesis promoting component, various components such as vitamins other than vitamin C may be used alone or in combination. These components are not particularly limited as long as they can be used in pharmaceuticals, quasi drugs, cosmetics, foods, and the like, and arbitrary components can be appropriately selected and used.

  Examples of the antibacterial component include chlorhexidine, salicylic acid, benzalkonium chloride, acrinol, ethanol, benzethonium chloride, cresol, popidone iodine, potassium iodide, iodine, isopropylmethylphenol, triclocarban, triclosan, photosensitizer 101, photosensitizer 201 No., paraben, phenoxyethanol, 1,2-pentanediol, alkyldiaminoglycine hydrochloride and the like. When the antibacterial component is blended, the amount used can be appropriately selected in consideration of the feeling of use and effects, but it is, for example, about 0.0003 to 10% by weight, preferably about 0.01 to 5% by weight, based on the whole whitening composition. It is.

  Examples of the cell activation component include amino acids such as γ-aminobutyric acid and ε-aminocaproic acid: vitamins such as retinol, thiamine, riboflavin, pyridoxine hydrochloride and pantothenic acids: α-hydroxy acids such as glycolic acid and lactic acid: Examples thereof include tannin, flavonoid, saponin, allantoin, and photosensitizer 301. When the cell activating component is blended, the amount used can be appropriately selected in consideration of the feeling of use and effects, but it is, for example, about 0.0003 to 10% by weight, preferably about 0.01 to 5%, based on the whole whitening composition. % By weight.

  Examples of the astringent component include metal salts such as alum, chlorohydroxyaluminum, aluminum chloride, allantoin aluminum salt, zinc sulfate, and aluminum potassium sulfate; organic acids such as tannic acid, citric acid, lactic acid, and succinic acid . When the astringent component is blended, the amount used can be appropriately selected in consideration of the feeling of use and effects, but for example about 0.0003 to 10% by weight, preferably about 0.01 to 5% by weight, based on the whole whitening composition. It is.

  Examples of acne improving components include azelaic acid, salicylic acid, and derivatives thereof. When the acne improving component is blended, the amount used can be appropriately selected in consideration of the feeling of use and effects, but for example about 0.0003 to 10% by weight, preferably about 0.01 to 5% by weight with respect to the whole whitening composition. %.

  Examples of anti-aging components include retinoids (retinol, retinoic acid, retinal, etc.), pangamic acid, ursolic acid, turmeric extract, sphingosine derivatives, silicon, silicic acid, N-methyl-L-serine, mevalonolactone, and the like. When blending an anti-aging component, the amount used can be appropriately selected in consideration of the feeling of use and effects, but for example about 0.0003 to 10% by weight, preferably about 0.01 to 5% by weight with respect to the whole whitening composition. %.

  As moisturizing ingredients, amino acids such as alanine, serine, leucine, isoleucine, threonine, glycine, proline, hydroxyproline, glucosamine, theanine and derivatives thereof; polyvalent such as glycerin, 1,3-butylene glycol, propylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, etc. Alcohols; sugar alcohols such as sorbitol; phospholipids such as lecithin and hydrogenated lecithin; propylene glycol, heparin, chondroitin, hyaluronic acid or a salt thereof (for example, sodium hyaluronate), acetylated hyaluronic acid or a salt thereof (for example, acetyl) And mucopolysaccharides such as sodium hyaluronate); NMF-derived components such as lactic acid, sodium pyrrolidonecarboxylate, and urea. When the moisturizing component is blended, the amount used can be appropriately selected in consideration of the feeling of use and effects, but it is, for example, about 0.1 to 10% by weight, preferably about 0.5 to 5% by weight, based on the whole whitening composition It is.

  Examples of the keratin soft component include lanolin, urea, phytic acid, lactic acid, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, malic acid, citric acid, and salts thereof. When the keratin softening component is blended, the amount used can be appropriately selected in consideration of the feeling of use and effects, but for example 0.0001 to 50% by weight, preferably about 0.001 to 50% by weight relative to the whole whitening composition. %, More preferably about 0.05 to 25% by weight.

  Examples of the blood circulation promoting component include plants (for example, ginseng, ashitaba, arnica, ginkgo, fennel, entomop, dutch oak, chamomile, roman chamomile, carrot, gentian, burdock, rice, hawthorn, shiitake, hawthorn, prunus, nematode, and senkyu. , Assembly, thyme, clove, chimpi, spruce, sprout, spruce, carrot, garlic, butcher bloom, grape, button, maronier, melissa, yuzu, yokinein, rosemary, rosehip, chimpi, spruce, spruce, peach, apricot, Ingredients derived from walnut, corn); tocopherol nicotinate, glucosyl hesperidin, hesperidin. When the blood circulation promoting component is blended, the amount used can be appropriately selected in consideration of the feeling of use and effects, but it is, for example, about 0.00001 to 10% by weight, preferably 0.0001 to 5% by weight, based on the whole whitening composition. More preferably, it is about 0.001 to 5% by weight. The amount used when using a plant-derived component is about 0.00001 to 20% by weight, preferably about 0.0001 to 15% by weight, more preferably 0.001 to the total amount of the whitening composition in terms of an extract such as an extract. 10% by weight.

  Examples of vitamins other than vitamin C include, for example, retinol derivatives such as retinol, retinol acetate, and retinol palmitate, retinal, retinoic acid, methyl retinoic acid, ethyl retinoic acid, retinol retinoic acid, d-δ-tocopheryl retinoate , Α-tocopheryl retinoate, β-tocopheryl retinoate, etc .; vitamins A; β-carotene, α-carotene, γ-carotene, δ-carotene, lycopene, zeaxanthin, cryptoxanthin, echinone, etc. Vitamin E such as δ-tocopherol, α-tocopherol, β-tocopherol, dl-α-tocopherol succinate, dl-α-tocopherol calcium succinate, δ-tocopherol, tocopherol nicotinate; riboflavin, flavin Vitamin B2 such as nucleotide, flavin adenine dinucleotide, riboflavin butyrate, riboflavin tetrabutyrate, sodium riboflavin 5′-phosphate, riboflavin tetranicotinate; nicotine such as methyl nicotinate, nicotinic acid, nicotinamide Acids; Vitamin Ds such as methyl hesperidin, ergocalciferol and cholecalciferol; Vitamin Ks such as phylloquinone and farnoquinone; dibenzoyl thiamine, dibenzoyl thiamine hydrochloride, thiamine hydrochloride, thiamine cetyl hydrochloride, thiamine thiocyanate , Thiamine lauryl hydrochloride, thiamine nitrate, thiamine monophosphate, thiamine lysine salt, thiamine triphosphate, thiamine monophosphate phosphate, thiamine monophosphate Vitamin B1 such as acid ester, thiamine diphosphate, thiamine diphosphate hydrochloride, thiamine triphosphate, thiamine triphosphate monophosphate; pyridoxine hydrochloride, pyridoxine acetate, pyridoxal hydrochloride, 5'-pyridoxal phosphate, Vitamin B6 such as pyridoxamine hydrochloride, vitamin B12 such as cyanocobalamin, hydroxocobalamin, deoxyadenosylcobalamin; folic acid such as folic acid and pteroylglutamic acid; pantothenic acid, calcium pantothenate, pantothenyl alcohol (panthenol), D- Pantothenic acids such as pantethein, D-panthetin, coenzyme A, pantothenyl ethyl ether; biotins such as biotin and biocytin; others, carnitine, ferulic acid, α-lipoic acid, oroc Acid, such as vitamin-like agents such as γ- oryzanol and the like. When blending vitamins, the amount used can be appropriately selected in consideration of the feeling of use and effects, but for example, about 0.001 to 30% by weight, preferably about 0.1 to 25% by weight, based on the whole whitening composition. %, More preferably about 0.5 to 20% by weight.

  The various components as described above can be used singly or in combination of two or more.

  Further, the whitening composition of the present invention may be appropriately blended with components usually used in fields such as pharmaceuticals, quasi-drugs, cosmetics, and foods depending on the use or dosage form in addition to the above-described components. good. The components that can be blended are not particularly limited, but for example, bases or carriers, surfactants, solubilizers, viscosity modifiers, preservatives, pH adjusters, chelating agents, stabilizers, irritation reducers, preservatives Additives such as colorants, dispersants, and fragrances can be blended. In addition, these components can be mix | blended individually by 1 type or in combination of 2 or more types.

  As a base or carrier, water; lower alcohol such as ethanol and isopropanol; ethylene glycol monomethyl ether, ethylene glycol monoethyl ether, ethylene glycol monopropyl ether, diethylene glycol monomethyl ether, diethylene glycol monoethyl ether, diethylene glycol monopropyl ether, diethylene glycol Glycol ethers such as monobutyl ether, propylene glycol monoethyl ether, propylene glycol monopropyl ether, dipropylene glycol monoethyl ether, dipropylene glycol monopropyl ether; polyethylene glycol, propylene glycol, 1,3-butylene glycol, glycerin, isoprene Glycol, diglycerin, Polyhydric alcohols such as dipropylene glycol; liquid paraffin, squalane, petrolatum, gelled hydrocarbons (plastibase, etc.), ozokerite, α-olefin oligomers, hydrocarbons such as light liquid paraffin; methyl polysiloxane, cross-linked methyl polysiloxane , Highly polymerized methylpolysiloxane, cyclic silicone, alkyl-modified silicone, cross-linked alkyl-modified silicone, amino-modified silicone, polyether-modified silicone, polyglycerin-modified silicone, cross-linked polyether-modified silicone, cross-linked alkyl polyether-modified silicone, silicone・ Alkyl chain co-modified polyether-modified silicone, silicone ・ alkyl chain co-modified polyglycerin-modified silicone, polyether-modified branched silicone, polyglycerin-modified component Silicone oils such as silicone, acrylic silicone, phenyl-modified silicone, and silicone resin; higher alcohols such as cetanol, cetostearyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, and behenyl alcohol; cellulose derivatives such as ethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose; polyvinylpyrrolidone Carrageenan; polyvinyl butyrate; polyethylene glycol; dioxane; butylene glycol adipic acid polyester; isopropyl myristate, octyldodecyl myristate, isopropyl palmitate, cetyl palmitate, isononyl isononanoate, pentaerythritol tetra-2-ethylhexanoate, jojoba Esters such as oil; dextrin, maltodext Polysaccharides such as phosphorus; and the like. Preferred are water and lower alcohols, and more preferred are water and ethanol. When the whitening composition of the present invention contains a base or carrier (especially water and lower alcohol), the blending amount can be appropriately selected in consideration of the feeling of use and effects, but the entire whitening composition. For example, it is about 30 to 98% by weight, preferably 50 to 97% by weight, more preferably 60 to 95% by weight.

  Examples of the surfactant include POE-branched alkyl ethers such as polyoxyethylene (hereinafter referred to as POE) -octyldodecyl alcohol and POE-2-decyltetradecyl alcohol; POE-oleyl alcohol ether and POE-cetyl alcohol ether Sorbitan esters such as sorbitan monooleate, sorbitan monoisostearate and sorbitan monolaurate; POE-sorbitan monooleate, POE-sorbitan monoisostearate, and POE-sorbitan monolaurate POE-sorbitan ester; glycerol fatty acid ester such as glycerol monooleate, glycerol monostearate, and glycerol monomyristate; POE-glycerol monooleate POE-glycerin monostearate and POE-glycerin fatty acid esters such as POE-glycerin monomyristate; POE-cured castor oil such as POE-dihydrocholesterol ester, POE-cured castor oil, and POE-cured castor oil isostearate Fatty acid esters; POE-alkyl aryl ethers such as POE-octylphenyl ether; glycerin alkyl ethers such as monoisostearyl glyceryl ether and monomyristyl glyceryl ether; POE-glycerins such as POE-monostearyl glyceryl ether and POE-monomyristyl glyceryl ether Alkyl ethers; diglyceryl monostearate, decaglyceryl decastearate, decaglyceryl decaisostearate, and diglyceryl di Polyglycerol fatty acid esters of various nonionic surfactants, such as Sosuteareto: or lecithin, hydrogenated lecithin, saponin, sodium surfactin can be exemplified cholesterol, a surfactant of natural origin, such as bile acids. A nonionic surfactant is preferable, and POE-hardened castor oil is more preferable.

  Examples of the solubilizing component include polyhydric alcohols such as propylene glycol, 1,3-butylene glycol, glycerin, isoprene glycol, diglycerin, dipropylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, ethoxydiglycol; hydrogenated soybean phospholipid, polyoxy Ethylene sorbitan fatty acid ester, polyoxyethylene lanolin alcohol, polyoxyethylene castor oil, polyoxyethylene hydrogenated castor oil, polyoxyethylene sterol, polyoxyethylene alkyl ether, polyoxyethylene polyoxypropylene alkyl ether, polyoxyethylene alkylphenyl ether Etc. A polyhydric alcohol is preferable, and 1,3-butylene glycol and glycerin are more preferable.

  Examples of the viscosity modifier include guar gum, locust bean gum, carrageenan, xanthan gum, dextran, methylcellulose, ethylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose, hydroxymethylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxypropylcellulose, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, sodium alginate, sodium hyaluronate, propylene alginate Glycol ester, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl pyrrolidone, polyvinyl methyl ether, carboxyvinyl polymer, alkyl acrylate methacrylate copolymer, sodium polyacrylate, polyethylene glycol, bentonite, dextrin fatty acid ester, pectin, (hydroxyethyl acrylate / acryloyldimethyl) Gaulin Na) copolymer, dimethyl distearyl ammonium hectorite, polyethylene glycol distearate, triisostearate, ethylene glycol, triisostearate, polyoxyethylene (20) and the like methyl glucoside. Xanthan gum, sodium hyaluronate, and carboxyvinyl polymer are preferred.

  Examples of the preservatives or preservatives include benzoic acid, sodium benzoate, dehydroacetic acid, sodium dehydroacetate, parabens (isobutyl paraoxybenzoate, isopropyl paraoxybenzoate, butyl paraoxybenzoate, ethyl paraoxybenzoate, paraoxybenzoic acid Propyl, benzyl paraoxybenzoate, methyl paraoxybenzoate), phenoxyethanol, benzyl alcohol, chlorobutanol, sorbic acid and salts thereof, alkanediol and the like. Parabens are preferable.

  Examples of pH adjusters include inorganic acids (hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, etc.), organic acids (lactic acid, sodium lactate, citric acid, sodium citrate, succinic acid, sodium succinate, etc.), inorganic bases (potassium hydroxide, hydroxide) Sodium), organic bases (triethanolamine, diisopropanolamine, triisopropanolamine, etc.). Preferably, it is potassium hydroxide.

  As a chelating agent, for example, as a chelating agent, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (edetic acid), ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid salt (sodium salt (sodium edetate: Japanese Pharmacopoeia, EDTA-2Na etc.), potassium salt etc.), phytic acid, Examples thereof include polyphosphoric acid and metaphosphoric acid.

Examples of the stabilizer include sodium polyacrylate, dibutylhydroxytoluene, and bitylhydroxyanisole.
Examples of the irritation reducing agent include licorice extract and sodium alginate.

  The above additives can be used singly or in combination of two or more.

  The whitening composition of the present invention can take a dosage form usually used for pharmaceuticals, quasi-drugs, cosmetics or foods depending on the use of the composition, and is usually a liquid, a semi-solid or a solid. It is. Specifically, known forms such as a liquid agent, a gel agent, a liposome agent, an extract agent, a tincture agent, an ointment agent, and a jelly agent can be taken. In addition, pastes, mousses, gels, liquids, emulsions, creams, sheets (substrate support), aerosols can be added by blending other solvents and commonly used bases as necessary. It can be prepared in various desired forms such as spray.

  These dosage forms in the whitening composition of the present invention can be produced by ordinary methods in the art. For example, when the composition of the present invention is a composition for external use on the skin, the components (A) and (B) and the above-mentioned optional components are blended and mixed as necessary. By blending the base of the external preparation used, various desired forms such as paste, mousse, gel, liquid, emulsion, cream, sheet (substrate support), aerosol, spray, etc. Can be prepared in form.

  The whitening composition of the present invention is usually required to have a liquidity of pH 1-9, but in the case of a semi-solid or liquid applied to the skin, stability of vitamin Cs, low irritation to the skin, From the viewpoint of good skin feeling, it is desirable that the pH is preferably 3 to 9, more preferably 4.5 to 8.5, and still more preferably 6.5 to 8.5.

  The whitening composition of the present invention is not particularly limited as long as the effects of the present invention are achieved, but can be used as, for example, a pharmaceutical product, a quasi-drug, a cosmetic product, or a food product. Cosmetics include, for example, basic cosmetics such as emulsions, creams, lotions, oils and packs; makeup cosmetics such as foundations, lipsticks, mascaras, eye shadows, eyeliners, eyebrows and beauty nails; facial cleansers, cleansings, body It can be used as a cleaning agent such as a cleaning agent;

  The whitening composition of the present invention may be used as an external composition or an internal composition, but is preferably applied to the skin from the viewpoint of being applied to the skin and exhibiting a higher whitening effect directly. Used as a composition.

  As shown in the results of test examples to be described later, by using the combination of the component (A) and the component (B), a high tyrosinase activity inhibitory effect can be obtained synergistically. It has been confirmed that a remarkably high melanin production inhibitory effect is exhibited. Therefore, it is speculated that the whitening composition of the present invention suppresses melanin production in melanocytes through the tyrosinase activity inhibitory action and exhibits a whitening effect. Therefore, the whitening composition of the present invention can also be used as a tyrosinase activity inhibitor or a melanin production inhibitor in melanocytes.

  Since the whitening composition of the present invention can exert a high whitening effect, pigmentation due to sunburn, senile pigmentation, post-inflammation pigmentation (for example, acne and injuries, burns, traces of insect bites, black skin In order to prevent and / or ameliorate symptoms such as spots, freckles, dullness, etc. of liver spots, symmetric dermal melanocytosis, sparrow egg spot, etc., and to make the skin transparent Can be used. In the present specification, whitening means to make the skin beautifully white and / or to keep white. Moreover, since the whitening composition of the present invention can be used as a tyrosinase activity inhibitor or a melanin production inhibitor in melanocytes as described above, the physiologic state relating to tyrosinase activity and melanin production in melanocytes is clarified. It can also be used as a research reagent.

  The method of using the whitening composition of the present invention varies depending on the age and sex of the object to be used, the height of the required effect, the dosage form, etc., but for example, when used as a skin external composition, it is usually several times a day ( For example, about 1 to 5 times, preferably about 1 to 3 times), an appropriate amount (for example, the face, neck, arm, hand, torso, foot, etc.) of the skin portion desired to exert the whitening effect (for example, About 0.01 to 3 g) may be applied. It is particularly preferable to apply directly to the skin after washing (for example, the skin of the face after washing the face) from the viewpoint that the penetration into the skin is increased and a whitening effect can be expected more effectively.

[2] A method for enhancing the whitening effect of the composition, and [3] a method for whitening the skin:
As described above, by using (B) gluconic acid together with (A) vitamin C, the action of the component (A) and the component (B) is combined to obtain a synergistically high whitening effect. It has been confirmed.
Therefore, this invention provides the method of heightening the whitening effect | action of this composition characterized by mix | blending (B) gluconic acid with (A) vitamin C from the whitening composition from another viewpoint. From another point of view, the present invention also provides a skin whitening method characterized by using (A) vitamin Cs and (B) gluconic acid in combination.
In the above method, the types of components used, the blending ratio thereof, other components that can be blended, the blending ratio thereof, the usage method, and the like are the same as those in the “[1] Whitening composition”.

[4] Whitening enhancer:
As described above, when (B) gluconic acid is used together with (A) vitamin C, the actions of the (A) component and (B) component are combined to use the (A) component alone. It has been confirmed that the whitening effect is significantly enhanced.
Accordingly, the present invention also provides (B) a whitening enhancer for vitamin C, which contains (B) gluconic acid as an active ingredient, from another viewpoint.
In the whitening enhancer, the types of vitamin C to be augmented and other components that can be blended and the blending ratio thereof are the same as those in “[1] Whitening composition”.

[5] Use:
As described above, when (B) gluconic acid is used together with (A) vitamin C, the actions of the (A) component and (B) component are combined to use the (A) component alone. It has been confirmed that the whitening effect is significantly enhanced.
Therefore, this invention also provides use of (A) vitamin C and (B) gluconic acid in manufacture of the composition for whitening from another viewpoint. In one embodiment, the whitening composition in the above use exhibits a whitening effect by inhibiting tyrosinase activity. Moreover, in specific embodiment, in the said use, (A) vitamin C contains at least 1 sort (s) selected from the group which consists of ascorbic acid, its derivative (s), and those salts. In a more specific embodiment, the whitening composition in the use is a skin external composition.
More specifically, in the above aspect of use, the types of ingredients used and their blending ratios, other ingredients that can be blended, blending ratios thereof, usage methods, etc. are described in the above “[1] Whitening composition. It is the same as "thing".

  EXAMPLES The present invention will be described in detail below based on examples, but the present invention is not limited to these examples.

[Test Example 1: Tyrosinase activity inhibition test]
DMEM with 10% FCS and 1% Antibiotic-Antimycotic (purchased from GIBCO) in a 96-well plate seeded with B16 melanoma cells at a cell density of 3 x 10 ⁴ cells / 0.2ml / well The cells were cultured in a medium (purchased from GIBCO) for 24 hours. Next, after the cells were washed twice with 100 μL of phosphate buffer (66 mM, pH 6.8), 100 μL of PBS containing 1% TritonX-100 was added to each well, and lysed with a 37 ° C. mixer for 30 minutes. . 30 minutes later, 50 μL of the supernatant was transferred to a well of a new plate, and each test drug dissolved in PBS (Comparative Example 1: L-ascorbyl sodium phosphate alone containing 2 w / w%, Comparative Example 2: Gluconic acid alone 50 μL of 0.1 w / w%, Example 1: containing 2 w / w% L-ascorbyl phosphate and 0.1 w / w% gluconic acid) was added. On the other hand, a well containing 50 μL of PBS containing neither L-ascorbyl phosphate nor gluconic acid was prepared and used as a control. 50 μL of 5 mM L-DOPA solution was quickly added so as not to cause a time difference between the samples, and the absorbance (475 nm) was measured with a plate reader. This was used as the initial amount of DOPA chrome. Then, store for 45 minutes with stirring in a 37 ° C mixer, and then measure the absorbance (475 nm) again and measure how much tyrosinase activity was inhibited by measuring the amount of DOPA chrome after storage. did. From the measured values obtained, the inhibition rate (%) when each test drug was added when the control was 100% was calculated. The result is shown in FIG.

  As is clear from FIG. 1, it was revealed that a significantly high tyrosinase activity inhibitory effect was exhibited synergistically by using a combination of sodium L-ascorbyl phosphate and gluconic acid. This result was completely unexpected because tyrosinase activity inhibitory action was not observed when gluconic acid was used alone.

[Test Example 2: Melanosite-containing human three-dimensional cultured epidermis model test]
In order to further examine the whitening effect obtained when vitamin Cs and gluconic acid are used in combination, the following evaluation was performed using a human three-dimensional cultured epidermis model containing melanocytes. Since this three-dimensional cultured epidermis model has a structure close to human normal skin and contains melanocytes, it is a well-known model test useful for basic skin research related to pigmentation and the like.

  Specifically, in this test example, Lab Cyte.MELANO-MODEL24 kit (manufactured by JTEC) was used as a human three-dimensional cultured epidermis model. The test was basically performed according to the instruction manual of the kit. First, the epidermis model of the kit was cultured for 12 hours in an improved melanin production promoting medium included in the kit. Thereafter, each test drug dissolved in PBS solution (Comparative Example 3: L-ascorbyl sodium phosphate alone containing 0.5 w / w%, Comparative Example 4: Gluconic acid alone containing 0.25 w / w%, Example 2: 50 μL of sodium L-ascorbyl phosphate (containing 0.5 w / w% and 0.25 w / w% gluconic acid) was added to the culture cup. On the other hand, a well containing 50 μL of a PBS solution containing neither L-ascorbyl phosphate nor gluconic acid was prepared and used as a control. The medium and each PBS solution were changed every other day. Thirteen days after the start of exposure to the test drug, the epidermis model was collected and melanin was quantified. The amount of melanin was corrected from the ratio of the number of viable cells measured by the NR method. The result is shown in FIG.

  As is clear from FIG. 2, the same tendency as in Test Example 1 was also observed in this test using the three-dimensional cultured epidermis model. That is, by using a combination of vitamin Cs (sodium L-ascorbyl phosphate) and gluconic acid, the production of melanin is synergistically suppressed, a high whitening effect is obtained, and a transparent and clean skin state is obtained. It was shown that you can.

  Examples of the formulation of the whitening composition of the present invention are shown below, but the present invention is not limited to these specific examples.

[Formulation Formulation Example 1: Cosmetic liquid]
(1) Ion exchange water Residual (2) Glycerin 5
(3) 1,3-butylene glycol 5
(4) Xanthan gum 0.3
(5) BHT 0.1
(6) L-ascorbyl sodium phosphate 2
(7) Paraben 0.3
(8) Trisodium edetate 0.1
(9) Carboxyvinyl polymer 0.5
(10) Gluconic acid 1.0
(11) Potassium hydroxide 0.5
(12) Polyoxyethylene hydrogenated castor oil 0.5
(13) Sodium pyrosulfite 0.1
(14) Evening primrose extract 0.1
(15) Yukinoshita extract 0.1
(16) Salicylic acid 0.05
(17) Dipotassium glycyrrhizinate 0.05
(18) Sodium dl-α-tocopheryl phosphate 0.1
(19) Fragrance 0.05
Total 100%

[Preparation Example 2: Emulsion]
(1) Ion exchange water Residual (2) Glycerin 5
(3) 1,3-butylene glycol 5
(4) Xanthan gum 0.5
(5) BHT 0.1
(6) L-ascorbyl sodium phosphate 2
(7) Paraben 0.3
(8) Trisodium edetate 0.1
(9) Carboxyvinyl polymer 0.5
(10) Gluconic acid 1.0
(11) Potassium hydroxide 0.6
(12) Polyoxyethylene hydrogenated castor oil 0.5
(13) Sodium pyrosulfite 0.1
(14) Evening primrose extract 0.1
(15) Yukinoshita extract 0.1
(16) Salicylic acid 0.05
(17) Dipotassium glycyrrhizinate 0.05
(18) Sodium dl-α-tocopheryl phosphate 0.1
(19) Fragrance 0.05
(20) Cetanol 0.3
(21) Sorbitan monostearate 1.5
(22) Isopropyl palmitate 2.0
Total 100%

[Formulation formulation example 3: lotion]
(1) Ion exchange water Residual (2) Glycerin 5
(3) 1,3-butylene glycol 5
(4) Xanthan gum 0.1
(5) BHT 0.1
(6) L-ascorbyl sodium phosphate 2
(7) Paraben 0.3
(8) Trisodium edetate 0.1
(9) Carboxyvinyl polymer 0.1
(10) Gluconic acid 1.0
(11) Potassium hydroxide 0.5
(12) Polyoxyethylene hydrogenated castor oil 0.5
(13) Sodium pyrosulfite 0.1
(14) Evening primrose extract 0.1
(15) Yukinoshita extract 0.1
(16) Salicylic acid 0.05
(17) Dipotassium glycyrrhizinate 0.05
(18) sodium dl-α-tocopheryl phosphate 0.05
(19) Fragrance 0.05
Total 100%

[Formulation formulation example 4: essence]
(1) Ion exchange water Residual (2) Glycerin 3
(3) 1,3-butylene glycol 3
(4) Xanthan gum 0.2
(5) BHT 0.1
(6) Sodium L-ascorbyl phosphate 0.5
(7) Paraben 0.3
(8) Trisodium edetate 0.1
(9) Carboxyvinyl polymer 0.5
(10) Gluconic acid 3.0
(11) Potassium hydroxide 0.4
(12) Polyoxyethylene hydrogenated castor oil 0.5
(13) Sodium pyrosulfite 0.01
(14) Evening primrose extract 0.1
(15) Yukinoshita extract 0.1
(16) Salicylic acid 0.05
(17) Dipotassium glycyrrhizinate 0.05
(18) sodium dl-α-tocopheryl phosphate 0.05
(19) Fragrance 0.05
Total 100%

[Preparation Example 5: Cream]
(1) Ion exchange water Residual (2) Glycerin 5
(3) 1,3-butylene glycol 10
(4) BHT 0.1
(5) L-ascorbyl sodium phosphate 0.1
(6) Paraben 0.3
(7) edetate trisodium 0.1
(8) Carboxyvinyl polymer 0.6
(10) Gluconic acid 0.1
(11) Potassium hydroxide 0.3
(12) Sorbitan monoisostearate 0.5
(13) Polysorbate 60 1.5
(13) Sodium pyrosulfite 0.05
(14) evening primrose extract 0.05
(15) Yukinoshita extract 0.05
(16) Salicylic acid 0.05
(17) Dipotassium glycyrrhizinate 0.05
(18) sodium dl-α-tocopheryl phosphate 0.05
(19) Fragrance 0.08
Total 100%

[Formulation formulation example 6: lotion]
(1) Ion exchange water Residual (2) Glycerin 5
(3) 1,3-butylene glycol 5
(4) Xanthan gum 0.1
(5) BHT 0.1
(6) L-ascorbyl sodium phosphate 2
(7) Paraben 0.3
(8) Trisodium edetate 0.1
(9) Carboxyvinyl polymer 0.1
(10) Gluconic acid 1.0
(11) Potassium hydroxide 0.5
(12) Polyoxyethylene hydrogenated castor oil 0.5
(13) Sodium pyrosulfite 0.1
(14) Evening primrose extract 0.1
(15) Yukinoshita extract 0.1
(16) Tranexamic acid 2.0
(17) Dipotassium glycyrrhizinate 0.05
(18) sodium dl-α-tocopheryl phosphate 0.05
(19) Fragrance 0.05
Total 100%

[Preparation Example 7: Emulsion]
(1) Ion exchange water Residual (2) Glycerin 5
(3) 1,3-butylene glycol 5
(4) Xanthan gum 0.5
(5) BHT 0.1
(6) L-ascorbyl sodium phosphate 2
(7) Paraben 0.3
(8) Trisodium edetate 0.1
(9) Carboxyvinyl polymer 0.5
(10) Gluconic acid 1.0
(11) Potassium hydroxide 0.6
(12) Polyoxyethylene hydrogenated castor oil 0.5
(13) Sodium pyrosulfite 0.1
(14) Evening primrose extract 0.1
(15) Yukinoshita extract 0.1
(16) Salicylic acid 0.05
(17) Dipotassium glycyrrhizinate 0.05
(18) Sodium dl-α-tocopheryl phosphate 0.1
(19) Fragrance 0.05
(20) Cetanol 0.3
(21) Sorbitan monostearate 1.5
(22) Isopropyl palmitate 2.0
(23) Arbutin 3.0
Total 100%

Claims (8)

  A whitening composition comprising (A) vitamins C and (B) gluconic acid.   The composition according to claim 1, wherein the whitening effect is exhibited by inhibiting tyrosinase activity.   (A) The whitening composition of Claim 1 or 2 containing at least 1 sort (s) selected from the group which consists of ascorbic acid, its derivative (s), and those salts as a component.   The whitening composition according to any one of claims 1 to 3, which is a composition for external use on the skin.   (B) Gluconic acid is mix | blended with (A) vitamin Cs to the whitening composition, The method of heightening the whitening effect | action of this composition characterized by the above-mentioned.   (A) Vitamin C and (B) Gluconic acid are used together, The skin whitening method characterized by the above-mentioned.   (B) A whitening enhancer for vitamin C, comprising gluconic acid.   Use of (A) vitamin C and (B) gluconic acid in the manufacture of a whitening composition.

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