Cosmetic compositions comprising a metal-complexed peptide fraction of stressed yeast extracts and/or a calcium influx inhibitor are disclosed, as well as methods of using such compositions to impart exfoliating, anti-aging, anti-lipid, anti-inflammatory, and/or lightening benefits to the skin and/or lightening benefits to the hair. These compositions are believed to have modulatory activity against at least one biochemical pathway implicated in skin aging, inflammation, lipid synthesis, and melanin production.