IMCAS 2026: Chando demonstrates epigenetic regulation of Asian skin pigmentation

At the 2026 IMCAS World Congress in Paris, Chinese group Chando presented the results of a decade of fundamental research dedicated to cutaneous epigenetics, highlighting the molecular mechanism of action of 4-Butylresorcinol. Leveraging high-throughput sequencing and bioinformatics, the study presented by Dr. Youssef demonstrates that this active ingredient intervenes upstream of melanogenesis by modulating the expression of specific microRNAs induced by environmental stress and UV radiation.

Unlike conventional tyrosinase inhibitors that primarily target residual enzymatic activity, this approach addresses the root cause of pigmentation by inhibiting the abnormal expression of epigenetic regulators, which control the transcriptional cascade involving MITF, TYR, and TYRP1 factors. This precision strategy allows for the fine-tuning of pigmentary homeostasis, with an instrumental reduction in skin melanin measured at 21.47% after four weeks, while preserving skin barrier integrity. By limiting the overexpression of melanogenesis mediators, this technology specifically addresses the sensitivity and rebound pigmentation issues characteristic of East Asian phototypes, marking a transition from functional cosmetics to bio-modulating dermo-cosmetics integrated into the Cellcrystal Whitening Radiance range.