This invention relates to complexes of certain divalent and polyvalent d-orbital metals of first transition series of the Periodic Table of Elements, from Group IV to Group VI, and including molybdenum, having a hydroxy acid [HA] and an amino acid [AA] moiety concurrently bound to a single said metal and having a spirocyclic, bidentate chelate structure of formula (I). Upon topical application said metal complexes undergo enhanced skin penetration without causing skin irritation. The said metal complexes are useful for topical conditions that includes dry skin, xerosis, ichthyosis, dandruff, brownish spots, keratoses, melasma, lentigines, age spots, dark circles around eyes, skin pigmentation, topical inflammation, liver spots, pigmented spots, wrinkles, blemishes, skin lines, oily skin, acne, warts, eczema, pruritic skin, psoriasis, inflammatory dermatoses, disturbed keratinization, dandruff, bacterial infection, fungal infection, wound healing, body odor, and skin changes associated with aging；
