ABSTRACT
Clinically, soy is touted for its gentle anti-inflammatory actions. In addition to moisturization, it is used to decrease inflammation, minimize hair growth, and effect photorejuvenation, photoprotection, skin lightening, and skin brightening ( 12 , 13 ). Clinical studies support the use of topical soy as a treatment for melasma and photodamage. Research suggested that, over 12 weeks, daily or twice-daily application of a topical soy formula improves overall skin tone and texture, hyperpigmentation, blotchiness, and dullness ( 4 , 5 ) ( Fig. 1.1 ). In a study of six adults, genistein dose-dependently inhibited ultraviolet B (UVB)-induced erythema (14) . Topical soy may also reduce the visibility and coarseness of hair, while increasing its softness and fineness (12) ( Figs. 1.2 and 1.3 ).
