#$%^&*AU2012227319A120121025.pdf#####- 22 PA TENT 00961- P0435CWO SPM/AJD ABSTRACT Topical compositions for skin whitening, skin lightening, and treatment of hyperpigmentation comprise an effective amount of S-acyl glutathione derivative and a carrier. Methods for skin whitening, skin lightening, and treating hyperpigmentation comprise applying a composition containing S-acyl glutathione derivative in a dermatologically acceptable carrier to skin tissue. The acyl group is a saturated or unsaturated aliphatic C12-C24 group, preferably a C16 - C24 group, most preferably a C16 group. In particularly preferred embodiments, the S-acyl glutathione derivative is S-palmitoyl glutathione.