Compositions and methods for lightening skin are provided. A method for lightening skin may include the step of identifying skin where lightening or whitening is desired and topically applying to the skin a composition including (a) a skin lightening agent comprising a canola extract and (b) a cosmetically acceptable carrier. A method for treating hyperpigmentation may include the step of identifying skin containing areas of hyperpigmentation and topically applying to the skin a composition including (a) a canola extract and (b) a cosmetically acceptable carrier.
