Hyperpigmentation is a harmless but give significant distress to the affected individual that affecting quality of life is a common dermatological condition in which the color of the skin generally becomes darker. This discoloration of the skin can be a result of a various internal and external factors including hormonal changes, inflammation, injury, certain medication and ultraviolet (UV) exposure. The biological process involving the production of the skin pigment called melanin produced by melanocytes in various skin layers of the skin. Melanogenesis, the process of melanocytes synthesis melanin can be altered, producing pigmentary skin disorders by the changes in melanocyte production or melanin distribution. Tannin are phenolic compounds found in varies plants and have been used throughout history for their pharmacological properties as part of plants and herbs in traditional medicine. The study of tannins, especially hydrolysable tannin as a part of tannin group shows the effectiveness of their apparent use on skin pigmentation problem. This scientific approach about hydrolysable tannin as a part of tannin may pose an attractive alternative treatment for hyperpigmentation problem. Through this review, it is hoped that we will gain a better understanding of how hydrolyzed tannins are a promising alternative to treat hyperpigmentation.

tannins

hydrolysable tannin

phenolic compound

hyperpigmentation

melasma

photoaging

skin

tyrosinase

antityrosinase