The present invention relates to compounds, compositions, and methods for brightening skin. The compounds, compositions, and methods of the present invention generally involve compounds produced by a Malassezia yeast, and chemical analogs thereof. In addition to skin brightening applications, the compounds, compositions, and methods of the present invention may be used to modulate melanocyte activity, induce melanocyte apoptosis, agonize an arylhydrocarbon receptor (AhR), improve hyperpigmentation caused by a hyperpigmentation disorder, and modulate melanin production, melanosome biogenesis, and melanosome transfer.