Is there evidence supporting the use of oral supplements to increase melanin production and enhance skin pigmentation?

From the Guidelines

There is no evidence supporting the use of oral supplements to increase melanin production and enhance skin pigmentation in the provided study 1. The study focuses on the treatment of vitiligo, a condition characterized by the loss of skin pigmentation, and explores depigmentation treatments rather than pigmentation enhancement. The evidence provided does not address the use of oral supplements for increasing melanin production or enhancing skin pigmentation. Key points to consider in the context of skin pigmentation and supplements include:

• The potential for certain supplements, such as beta-carotene and lycopene, to cause skin color changes, but these do not provide UV protection and are not a substitute for natural tans or sun protection.
• The lack of strong evidence supporting the use of oral melanin stimulators, such as L-tyrosine or psoralens, for enhancing skin pigmentation.
• The existence of other methods for achieving skin coloration changes, such as self-tanning lotions containing dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which are more effective and better studied than oral supplements. Given the lack of direct evidence from the provided study 1 and considering the importance of prioritizing morbidity, mortality, and quality of life, it is recommended to approach oral supplements for skin pigmentation with caution and to consult a healthcare provider before their use, especially for individuals with underlying health conditions or those taking other medications.

From the Research

Oral Supplements and Skin Pigmentation

• There is limited evidence directly supporting the use of oral supplements to increase melanin production and enhance skin pigmentation 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
• Studies have investigated the effects of oral collagen supplementation on skin quality, with some findings suggesting improvements in skin elasticity, hydration, and dermal collagen density 2, 4.
• Other research has examined the use of oral multicomponent dietary supplements for improving photoaged skin, with some studies reporting significant improvements from baseline 5.
• However, the current evidence is not sufficient to draw definitive conclusions about the effectiveness of oral supplements for enhancing skin pigmentation, and more research is needed to establish the effects and physiologic mechanism of these supplements 3, 6.

Key Findings

• Oral collagen supplements have been shown to increase skin elasticity, hydration, and dermal collagen density, but their effects on melanin production and skin pigmentation are not well established 2, 4.
• Multicomponent dietary supplements have been found to have beneficial effects on skin health, but the evidence is limited by the heterogeneity of study designs and outcomes 5.
• The use of oral collagen supplementation for dermatologic purposes is a topic of strong consumer interest, but companies' claims and media representations often surpass the available evidence 6.

Research Gaps

• Further studies are needed to elucidate the medical use of oral supplements in skin barrier diseases and to determine optimal dosing regimens 2.
• More research is required to establish the effects and physiologic mechanism of oral collagen supplementation on skin pigmentation and melanin production 3, 6.
• Confirmatory studies are needed to replicate the findings of individual studies and to draw more definitive conclusions about the effectiveness of oral supplements for enhancing skin pigmentation 5.