Skin whitening peptide agents

A method of whitening skin comprising topically applying a peptide from 3 to 15 amino acids in length, containing a sequence of at least three successive amino acids of the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:

• 1, or a functional derivative or a physiologically acceptable salt thereof to the skin of a human, as skin whitening cosmetic agent.

A method of treating hyperpigmentation comprising topically applying a peptide from 3 to 15 amino acids in length, containing a sequence of at least three successive amino acids of the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:

• 1, or a functional derivative or a physiologically acceptable salt thereof to the skin of a human having hyperpigmentation.

A cosmetic or pharmaceutical composition comprising a skin whitening peptide that is from 3 to 15 amino acids in length, contains a sequence of at least three successive amino acids of SEQ ID NO:

• 1, or a functional derivative or a physiologically acceptable salt thereof and a physiologically acceptable carrier and/or excipient.