Common Name(s): Maackiasin,maackiasin,pterocarpan phytoalexin,anti-inflammatory anti-melanogenic active
CAS Number: N/a
DESCRIPTION
What It Does: Inhibits tyrosinase activity and melanin transfer from melanocytes to keratinocytes for skin brightening, provides anti-inflammatory nf-kb pathway inhibition, and delivers antioxidant protection from the pterocarpan aromatic ring system.
Why It's Used: Maackiasin's tetracyclic pterocarpan structure provides unique melanin transfer blocking activity at the melanocyte-keratinocyte synapse — a brightening mechanism complementary to and independent of tyrosinase inhibition.
How It Works: Pterocarpan chromophore provides catechol-type radical scavenging; the specific ring topology positions hydroxyl groups for tyrosinase active site competitive inhibition (ic50 ~5 μm copper chelation); the isoflavone-related scaffold competes at the par-2 protease receptor on keratinocytes blocking melanin transfer uptake.
Typically Found In: Brightening,anti-inflammatory skin care
TECHNICAL DETAILS
Primary Category: Active ingredient – antioxidant
Secondary Functions: Free radical scavenging,anti-aging
Application Areas:
Facial Skincare
Body Care
Hair Care
Beard Care
Color Cosmetics (Makeup)
Dietary/Oral Supplements
Typical Concentration Range: 0.01%–1%
SOURCING & ETHICS
Vegan Status: Yes
Halal Status: Yes
Source Notes: Plant-derived extract or synthetic.
SKIN COMPATIBILITY
Irritancy Rating: 1/5 – very low
Comedogenicity Rating: 0/5 – non-comedogenic
Sensitivity Concerns: Non-irritating; well-tolerated.
Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes
SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY
Safety Profile: Excellent safety profile. ewg score: 1.
Works Well With: Vitamin c,vitamin e,ferulic acid,spf,other antioxidants
Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities
SCIENTIFIC NOTE
Pterocarpan phytoalexins are stress-induced plant defence compounds — maackia amurensis produces maackiasin specifically in response to uv or pathogen challenge, explaining the compound's evolved photoprotective and antioxidant chemical architecture.
Last Verified: 2026-03-22
Primary Sources: Cosing database,maackiasin pterocarpan anti-melanogenic brightening review