4% Cysteamine Complex (NV Cysteamine 15)
The hero pigmentation technology in MelaQuest Cysteamine Serum.
Cysteamine is a naturally occurring aminothiol with strong antioxidant properties and established use in topical pigmentation management.
It helps interfere with pathways involved in excess melanin production, making it particularly relevant for stubborn hyperpigmentation and melasma.
DermaQuest describes the product as containing 4% Cysteamine Complex (NV Cysteamine 15).
The 4% refers to the brand's cysteamine complex as formulated and should not automatically be interpreted as 4% pure Cysteamine HCl.
Micro-Encapsulated Cysteamine Delivery System
The current INCI contains Cysteamine HCl, Cyclodextrin, Algin and Calcium Citrate.
These ingredients form part of DermaQuest's cysteamine delivery system, designed to stabilise and deliver cysteamine within the leave-on formula.
This differentiates it from traditional cysteamine products that may require short-contact application and rinsing.
8% Ascorbic Acid
Pure Vitamin C provides complementary antioxidant and pigmentation-supporting activity.
It helps neutralise free radicals associated with environmental and UV exposure while supporting a brighter, more even-looking complexion.
Vitamin C also provides complementary collagen-related age-support benefits.
Phytic Acid
A multifunctional antioxidant and pigmentation-supporting ingredient.
Phytic Acid helps reduce oxidative stress while supporting regulation of processes involved in melanin production.
It strengthens the pigmentation strategy without making the serum primarily an exfoliating treatment.
Acetyl Glycyl Beta-Alanine
A peptide-related brightening ingredient included within the current formula.
It provides complementary tone-evening support and forms part of DermaQuest's multi-pathway pigmentation approach.
Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract
A botanical antioxidant that helps protect skin against environmental oxidative stress.
It complements the Vitamin C and Phytic Acid components within the serum.
Glycerin
Provides humectant hydration and helps maintain skin comfort while using an intensive pigmentation treatment.

Full Ingredient List:
Water (Aqua), Propylene Glycol, Isopentyldiol, Ascorbic Acid, Ethoxydiglycol, Acetyl Glycyl Beta-Alanine, Aminomethyl Propanol, Polysorbate 20, PEG-8 Dimethicone, Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract, Glycerin, Sodium Metabisulfite, Sodium Citrate, Cysteamine HCl, Cyclodextrin, Algin, Calcium Citrate, Disodium EDTA, Phytic Acid, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Hexylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate.

Use morning and evening.
Apply a thin layer to cleansed and toned skin over the face, neck and décolleté.
Allow the serum to absorb.
Follow with the remainder of your prescribed moisturising and pigmentation routine.
During the day, always finish with broad-spectrum sunscreen.
This is a leave-on serum. DermaQuest's current manufacturer directions do not instruct clients to rinse it off after a short contact period.

Stubborn hyperpigmentation
Melasma-prone skin
Uneven-looking skin tone
Persistent dark spots
Sun-related pigmentation
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
Post-acne dark marks
Recurrent pigmentation
Dullness associated with uneven tone
Clients requiring ongoing pigmentation maintenance
Clients following the DermaQuest MelaQuest programme
Clients looking for a non-hydroquinone pigmentation treatment