Hyperpigmentation is a complicated condition faced by many skin care professionals and consumers alike. This presentation will explore the mechanisms of melanin formation and melanocyte function, as well as associated states of hyper/hypo pigmentation. Learn why the enzymes tyrosinase, phenylalanine oxidase and newly discovered lightening mechanisms such as melanosome transfer (MIT) and melanin stimulating hormones (MSH) inhibitors are key components in melanin formation, and how to reduce melanin by exfoliation and inhibition of melatonin formation.