Abstract: A purified, naturally derived melanogenic inhibitor protein capable of inhibiting melanogenesis in pigmentary cells has an amino acid sequence SEQ ID NO: 4. A method of producing melanogenic inhibitor protein comprises grafting mammalian skin onto a live host, permitting the mammalian skin to remain on the host for a predetermined period of time, removing the mammalian skin, and extracting the protein from the skin. Methods of controlling melanogenesis in pigmentary cells or selectively destroying melanoma cells comprise the steps of mixing an effective amount of melanogenic inhibitor protein, or an active segment, derivative, or analog thereof, with a suitable carrier, and applying this mixture to the pigmentary or melanoma cells.

Abstract: Dermatitis is treated by topically applying a composition including melanocyte stimulating hormone to the epidermal portion of the infected skin. Preferably, alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone is applied in a concentration in the range of about 5.times.10.sup.-5 M/cm.sup.2. This is an effective treatment against a broad range of dermatitis. Occlusion of the affected site enhances response.