The present invention relates to a use of a resveratrol derivative for skin whitening, and more specifically, to: a cosmetic composition containing an acetylated derivative of resveratrol or a hydroxy derivative thereof, or a cosmetically acceptable salt thereof as an active ingredient a cosmetic product containing the cosmetic composition a skin whitening pharmaceutical composition containing an acetylated derivative of resveratrol or a hydroxy derivative thereof, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof as an active ingredient a skin preparation for external use, containing the skin whitening pharmaceutical composition a skin whitening method in which an acetylated derivative of resveratrol or a hydroxy derivative thereof, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof is administered to an individual and a novel resveratrol derivative compound having a skin whitening effect.
