Histopathological Changes Induced by Malassezin: A Novel Natural Microbiome Indole for Treatment of Facial Hyperpigmentation.

Background: Malassezin is a natural indole compound produced by the fungus Malassezia furfur and preclinical investigations have demonstrated an ability to suppress melanogenesis.

Objective: To investigate the histopathological effects of malassezin for treatment of facial hyperpigmentation.

Methods: In this proof-of-concept study, seven subjects with facial hyperpigmentation caused by melasma or photodamage applied topical malassezin twice daily for 14 weeks, followed by eight weeks of observation.