1 Kojic acid is made from fungi or fermented rice wine. When used on the skin, kojic acid helps prevent your skin from forming tyrosinase, which is an enzyme that helps create skin pigment (melanin). 2 As a result, using kojic acid soap may help fade dark spots on your skin from acne scars or sun damage.
Generally, users may start to notice initial improvements in their skin tone within 2-4 weeks of regular use. However, for more significant changes, it may take up to 2-3 months. Clinical studies and user experiences suggest that consistent application is key to achieving and maintaining desired results.
Though kojic acid soaps can work on most skin types, experts say that those with sensitive or dry skin should be cautious as it may sometimes cause irritation. “Those with dry skin may want to opt for soaps with moisturizing properties,” advises Dr. Gohara. “Always do a patch test before using it regularly.”
It is best to use products with 1% or less kojic acid to minimize the risk of irritation while still benefiting from its properties. For optimal results, kojic acid can be used daily to address hyperpigmentation and prevent free radical damage.
Kojic acid is objectively better for pigmentation and spot treatment. Vitamin C is meant for general brightening.
One compatible ingredient that can be used with Kojic acid is Vitamin C. When combined, this blend of these active ingredients can boost the skin's brightening and antioxidant effects. Vitamin C helps to further inhibit melanin production and promote collagen.
Our favorite dark spot serum is the Hyper Skin Hyper Even Vitamin C Serum. Its hydrating formula helps fade existing dark spots while preventing future ones from appearing. If you're looking for a more affordable option that you can buy at your local drugstore, we recommend the Versed Out of Sight Dark Spot Gel.
On the other hand, certain ingredients can trigger irritation and should be avoided if you're using kojic acid in your skincare routine. Harsh acids, like alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), are a prime example, as well as certain retinoids.
Kojic Acid can make your skin more sensitive to the harmful effects of sunlight. Hence it is advised to use sunscreen and wear protective clothing while using Kojic Acid. It is recommended to avoid tanning booths and sunlamps.
The bottom line: Kojic acid skincare is not cytotoxic and therefore cannot permanently lighten your skin tone. However for as long as kojic acid skincare is used, it will and can lighten and brighten skin tone.
One of the most popular beauty ingredients from South Korea, Kojic acid has many beauty benefits.
Salicylic acid
It is an exfoliating agent that removes dark spots and acne-causing bacteria along with dead skin cells that can lead to pigmentation.
If you have sensitive or easily irritated skin, Kojic acid may be preferable because it is gentler and less prone to cause irritation. Retinol, on the other hand, may be better suited to people with more robust skin because it might induce early irritation and peeling.
So ironically, in wanting to protect, your body could lead you to temporarily darken. So, while kojic acid is busy working on inhibiting melanin, your body may be counteracting by stimulating it. A classic battle of skincare wits! But remember folks, this isn't a long-term effect.
Kojic acid is produced by various strains of Aspergillus and Penicillum. It is found in very low concentration in traditional Japanese foods such as miso, soy sauce and saké. Kojic acid is also used as an additive for preventing enzymatic browning and for cosmetics.
Kojic acid captures copper ions, preventing the activation of tyrosinase, thus preventing the formation of melanin [12,14]. Due to its tyrosinase-inhibiting activity, KA is considered one of the most effective skin lightening agents in the beauty industry [15].
Skin irritation: Kojic acid can dry and irritate some people's skin, especially if you already have sensitive skin. Allergies: Some people experience allergic reactions to kojic acid, resulting in an itchy and dry skin rash called contact dermatitis.
Effectiveness: Kojic Acid often shows results faster than Vitamin C. Skin Types: Vitamin C may not be suitable for sensitive or acne-prone skin, as it can cause breakouts.
Both are available over the counter and inhibit melanin production. However, Kojic acid is considered more potent and is thus a preferred choice for more stubborn hyperpigmentation.
Moisturize: Follow up with a nourishing moisturizer to seal in the benefits of kojic acid and keep your skin hydrated. Sunscreen (AM only): Since kojic acid can increase sun sensitivity, always finish with a broad-spectrum sunscreen during the day.
Can I use Kojic Acid Serum in the morning? Kojic acid can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it's generally recommended for use in the evening. If you choose to use it during the day, be sure to apply sunscreen with a high SPF to protect your skin.
If you want to get rid of dark spots fast, a procedure that removes layers of discolored skin may work better than a lightening cream. These techniques include laser treatments, freezing (cryotherapy), dermabrasion, microdermabrasion, microneedling, and chemical peels.