For years, melatonin has been a staple in sleep aids, with over 60% of Americans using it to regulate their sleep cycles. Now, this hormone is making its way into the beauty industry, appearing in night creams, serums, and more. While the science behind oral melatonin is well-established, the research on its topical benefits remains sparse. Despite this, early findings suggest that melatonin may offer antioxidant properties, potentially reducing signs of aging, evening skin tone, and calming inflammatory conditions.
What is Melatonin and Why is it Showing Up in Skincare?
Melatonin, naturally produced by the pineal gland in the brain, regulates the body’s circadian rhythm. It signals the body to rest as darkness falls. Interestingly, skin also produces melatonin, acting as a shield against environmental stress, such as UV radiation. Skincare formulations now leverage this protective function, using plant-derived or synthetic melatonin to rejuvenate and restore skin health.
Potential Benefits: Antioxidant Power and Beyond
The primary appeal of melatonin in skincare lies in its antioxidant properties. Like vitamin C, it scavenges free radicals—unstable molecules that damage skin through oxidative stress. This process is linked to aging, including fine lines, wrinkles, and collagen breakdown. By neutralizing these free radicals, melatonin may help prevent premature aging and maintain skin elasticity.
Beyond anti-aging, melatonin shows promise in fading dark spots by inhibiting melanin production. Studies suggest it slows the activity of tyrosinase, an enzyme crucial for pigmentation. It may also calm inflammatory skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea, though research in this area is still limited.
What the Experts Say
According to dermatologists, melatonin is “increasingly powerful and efficacious” on the skin. While more research is needed, early findings suggest it may be a safe and potentially effective addition to skincare routines. However, experts emphasize that melatonin should not replace established treatments for inflammatory conditions but may serve as a supplementary option.
Risks and Alternatives
Despite its potential benefits, melatonin can cause irritation in sensitive skin. Patch testing is recommended before full application. Dermatologists generally agree that melatonin is well-tolerated and can be combined with other active ingredients.
For those seeking proven antioxidants, vitamin C and vitamin E remain reliable choices. Retinoids and sunscreen are also considered “the holy trinity” of skincare, with decades of research backing their anti-aging benefits.
The Bottom Line
The science behind melatonin in skincare is still evolving. While the early data is promising, further research is necessary to fully understand its efficacy. Nevertheless, given its low risk profile, experimenting with melatonin-infused products may be worthwhile. Ultimately, the best skincare routine is one you’ll consistently follow, so if melatonin excites you, there’s little harm in trying it out.
