Abstract: A method of improving the appearance of a hyperpigmented spot may comprise the step of applying a composition comprising an effective amount of banyan tree serum fraction, lotus serum fraction, and clover serum fraction to a hyperpigmented spot on a skin surface, wherein the composition is applied for a period of time sufficient to improve the appearance of the hyperpigmented spot. The method may include the step of identifying a hyperpigmented spot on a facial skin surface. Other methods as disclosed include a method for improving the appearance of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Abstract: A method of improving the appearance of aging skin may comprise the step of applying a composition comprising an effective amount of banyan tree serum fraction, lotus serum fraction, and clover serum fraction to a sign of aging on a skin surface, wherein the composition is applied for a period of time sufficient to improve the appearance of the aging skin. The method may include the step of identifying a sign of aging on a facial skin surface.

Abstract: Gene panels, microarrays and biomarker panels relating to genes and gene products associated with age-related oxidative damage to skin, and transcriptional profiling-based methods for identification and evaluation of cosmetic agents for prevention, reversal, or reduction of oxidative damage to skin. Cosmetic agents and compositions comprising the cosmetic agents, capable of inducing nrf2-mediated activation of the antioxidant response element to increase expression of Phase 2 enzymes, methods for restoring optimal redox status to skin employing the agents, and methods for identifying and evaluating cosmetic agents acting via the nrf2-mediated mechanism.