Skin is a major target of toxic agents, capable of altering its structure and function. Many environmental pollutants are either itself oxidants or catalyze the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) directly or indirectly. Cellular antioxidant enzymes and free radical scavengers normally protect a cell from toxic
effects of the ROS. However, ROS overtakes the antioxidants defense of cells, oxidative damage of the cellular macromolecules (lipids, proteins and nucleic acids) occurs. ROS- medicated lipid peroxidation, protein oxidation, and DNA damage are well known outcomes of oxygen derived free radicals. Present
study tells us the mechanism of ROS-mediated oxidative damage of protein, lipids and nucleic acids
Melasma, Oxidative stress, Hyperpigmentation, Reactive oxygen species
