April 2026 in “Biomolecules” This study explores the use of discarded squid ink to create high-performance, bio-based hair colorants. Squid ink melanin nanoparticles (SIMNPs) were developed using ultrasound disruption and enzymatic hydrolysis, resulting in particles with improved solubility and reduced steric limitations. To enhance binding to hair, Fe(III) ions were used as supramolecular bridges. The dyeing process, optimized at pH 8.0, 45 °C, and 80 minutes, produced a stable deep black color that remained vibrant after 13 washes. Unlike traditional dyes, this method preserves hair's natural structure and offers UV protection. Safety evaluations showed no adverse effects, highlighting the potential of SIMNPs as a safe, sustainable alternative to conventional hair dyes.
19 citations
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November 2023 in “npj Regenerative Medicine” Synthetic melanin applied to skin speeds up wound healing.
63 citations
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February 2017 in “ACS biomaterials science & engineering” Polydopamine is a safe, effective, and permanent hair dye that turns gray hair black in one hour.
19 citations
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January 2012 in “Annals of Dermatology” People need more information about hair dye ingredients and side effects.
September 2023 in “International journal of molecular sciences” Pinus densiflora extract may help improve memory and reduce brain inflammation.
1 citations
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November 2023 in “Polymers” Polyurethane dressings show promise for wound healing but need improvements to adapt better to the healing process.
October 2021 in “European Journal of Dermatology” CAL-PDT is safer and more effective for treating actinic keratosis on the scalp.
August 2020 in “European Journal of Dermatology” Dutasteride for hair loss can cause skin reactions like itchy red plaques.
November 2013 in “대한피부과학회지” Eating habits may affect the duration of male pattern baldness.
January 2013 in “대한피부과학회지” Men with longer-lasting hair loss eat more meat and less fish.
7 citations
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September 2021 in “Journal of Applied Polymer Science” Cuttlefish ink melanin protects hair from UV damage.
July 2024 in “Journal of Investigative Dermatology” 
25 citations
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June 2015 in “Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology” Microneedling helps increase the absorption of a melanin product into hair follicles, which may improve laser hair removal effectiveness.
17 citations
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April 2023 in “ACS Biomaterials Science & Engineering” Silk fibroin microneedles can effectively treat vitiligo by promoting skin pigmentation.
1 citations
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January 2025 in “Regenerative Biomaterials” Exosomes from Pinctada martensii mucus can safely reduce melanin production, offering a new treatment for skin pigment issues.
April 2026 in “bioRxiv (Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory)” A new microneedle patch significantly improves melanoma treatment by using a special material to activate cancer-fighting drugs and disrupt cancer cells.
![[4-t-Butylphenyl]-N-(4-imidazol-1-yl phenyl)sulfonamide (ISCK03) Inhibits SCF/c-kit Signaling in 501mel Human Melanoma Cells and Abolishes Melanin Production in Mice and Brownish Guinea Pigs](/images/research/4eb017dc-711d-4926-bcd0-c3b8f48e3a99/small/19974.jpg)
26 citations
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July 2007 in “Biochemical Pharmacology” ISCK03 stops melanin production in human melanoma cells and lightens skin color in mice and guinea pigs.
5 citations
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March 2019 in “Scientific Reports” The technique can isolate cells to help treat skin pigmentation issues.
2 citations
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September 2016 in “Journal of Dermatological Science” Squarticles, tiny particles made from sebum-derived lipids, can effectively deliver minoxidil, a hair growth drug, directly to hair follicles and skin cells, with less skin penetration and more tolerability.
7 citations
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July 2016 in “Journal of Biomedical Materials Research Part A” cGEL hydrogel improves melanin production in skin cells, making it a promising option for skin treatments.
36 citations
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March 2014 in “Biomaterials” A new skin-whitening agent using a peptide from wheat is safe and effective at reducing skin pigmentation.
March 2026 in “Journal of Nanobiotechnology” A new microneedle treatment can effectively repigment skin in vitiligo.
3 citations
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May 1979 in “PubMed” 7 citations
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December 2024 in “International Journal of Pharmaceutics” Dissolving microneedle patches can effectively deliver drugs over time.
50 citations
,
February 2004 in “Journal of Investigative Dermatology” 
21 citations
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January 2023 in “Biomaterials Science” Microneedle patches with alpha-arbutin and resveratrol can effectively reduce skin pigmentation without irritation.
12 citations
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September 2020 in “Nanomaterials” The new drug delivery system improves vitiligo treatment by enhancing melanocyte activity and viability.
15 citations
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December 2016 in “Advanced Pharmaceutical Bulletin” The new cream with N-acetyl glucosamine didn't change skin color after 8 weeks.
25 citations
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October 1985 in “Archives of Ophthalmology” The pigment in black eyeliner can spread in the skin and may cause permanent eyelash loss.
19 citations
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January 2007 in “Biological & pharmaceutical bulletin” Glycine reduces skin pigmentation by lowering melanin production.