The present invention relates generally to the field of cosmetic and/or food supplement. More specifically, the present invention aims to provide the use of at least an ingredient containing chicoric acid and/or derivatives and a micro-organism and/or an enzyme capable of hydrolyzing chicoric acid and/or derivatives thereof to generate tartaric and/or caffeic acid, for improving skin tone and preventing and/or treating hyper-pigmentation of skin and/or skin color imperfections such as age-spots and other skin disorders characterized by abnormal pigments. Also, the present invention aims at providing a skin lightening agent.
