Effect of hydrosol obtained from Camellia japonica branch on α-MSH-induced melanin and tyrosinase activity in B16F10 melanoma cells

Hydrosols that originate from various aromatic botanical sources in natural or organic settings contain a spectrum of fragrant compounds, which can be extracted from leaves, stems, peels, flowers, and roots. These compounds are known to exhibit diverse medicinal properties. However, there is limited research on hydrosols extracted from Camellia japonica branches, specifically in terms of their potential to inhibit tyrosinase. Hence, the aim of this study was to investigate the chemical composition of these hydrosols and their effects on inhibiting tyrosinase. Hexamethyl-cyclotrisiloxane (38.1%) and vanillin (25.3%) were identified as the primary constituents in the hydrosol through gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis. The inhibitory effects of the hydrosol, in comparison with the positive control arbutin, were evaluated against mushroom tyrosinase, revealing significant tyrosinase inhibitory properties for both the hydrosol and arbutin. Furthermore, in the presence of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone, the hydrosol notably diminished melanogenesis, resulting in a substantial reduction in melanin production. Genetic and protein analyses were conducted to uncover the mechanisms behind the hydrosol’s inhibition of tyrosinase and reduction of melanin. The results suggest that the hydrosol may effectively shield melanocytes from detrimental factors associated with tyrosinase-related proteins. The anti-tyrosinase activity of the hydrosol indicates its potential for promoting skin lightening.