Lightens skin & Suppresses melanin synthesis: 

When AA-2G is converted to vitamin C and enters skin cells, it significantly reduces the production of melanin by inhibiting tyrosinase activity. This results in a reduction of dopaquinone, an  intermediate of melanin synthesis. Additionally it converts existing dopaquinone to dopa. When AA-2G is converted to vitamin C and enters skin cells, it can significantly lighten existing black
melanin by a reduction reaction.

Another application of AA-2G in cosmetics is control of skin pigmentation. Due to its antioxidant properties, this compound reduces the rate of melanin synthesis, thus preventing skin darkening after UV exposure.