The present invention is in the field of personal care compositions in particular skin lightening compositions. A more effective way to reduce melanin content in melanocytes remains to be desired. It has been found that 4 hexylresorcinol in combination with MMP inhibitor galardin synergistically reduces melanin content in melanocytes. The invention thus relates to a composition comprising a synergistic combination of 4 hexylresorcinol and galardin for use in skin lightening. Thus the composition when applied topically over an appropriate length of time in vivo may be used to lighten the skin or to reduce age spots or freckles.
