How long does it take for kojic acid to work on hyperpigmentation?

Author: Aiyana Effertz  |  Last update: Saturday, April 5, 2025

With consistent use of a kojic acid serum or moisturizer of your choice, “results can be seen in as quickly as two weeks,” Dr. Kapoor says. “Significant results can be expected at the three-month mark.”

How long does kojic acid take to fade hyperpigmentation?

How Long Does It Take to See Results from Kojic Acid? Results from Kojic Acid can vary, but many users begin to notice improvements in their skin tone and reduction of hyperpigmentation within a few weeks of consistent use.

How effective is kojic acid for hyperpigmentation?

Kojic acid is similar to a chemical called hydroquinone. They are both effective treatments for hyperpigmentation. Treatment with kojic acid isn't immediate. For significant improvement, you'll need to use a kojic acid cosmetic for up to three months in some cases.

How to make kojic acid work faster?

Also, consider that kojic acid works better as part of an ensemble cast of ingredients. Mixing it up with the likes of alpha arbutin, glycolic acid and salicylic acid — or better still, using a serum that combines them all — can amplify the lightening effect and speed up that fade-out process.

Why is my skin getting darker after using kojic acid?

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.

How Kojic Acid Helps Reduce the Appearance of Brown Spots

What not to mix with kojic acid?

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.

How do you know if kojic acid is working?

While there is no strong evidence that kojic acid soap is as effective as the dermatological treatments, it may still help lighten dark spots since it contains the active ingredient kojic acid. Before trying kojic acid soap, patch test the product on your wrist. Kojic acid can cause irritation and sun sensitivity.

Should I moisturize after kojic acid?

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.

What is more powerful than kojic acid?

How is alpha arbutin better than kojic acid? It is gentle on the skin: Unlike kojic acid, which can cause stinging, irritation, or redness, alpha arbutin is much milder, making it suitable for all skin types.

What happens if you use kojic acid everyday?

Kojic acid can make your skin more susceptible to sunburn and more sensitive to UV rays. Melanin helps protect your skin from sunburn, and since kojic acid limits melanin production, it leaves your skin more vulnerable to sunburn.

Which is better for hyperpigmentation Vitamin C or kojic acid?

For best results, use it at night, and apply sunscreen during the day to avoid sun damage. Q: Which is better, Kojic Acid or Vitamin C? A: Both ingredients offer unique benefits. Kojic acid is great for reducing dark spots, while Vitamin C brightens the skin and offers protection against environmental damage.

How many days will Kojic work?

The timeframe for seeing results with kojic acid can vary based on several factors, including the concentration of kojic acid, your skin type, and how consistently you use the product. Generally, users may start to notice initial improvements in their skin tone within 2-4 weeks of regular use.

Which acid is best for hyperpigmentation?

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. However, you need to be patient while using salicylic acid to treat hyperpigmentation.

Which serum is best for skin whitening?

  • 4.1|18. LUVYH. Vitamin C & E Face Serum. ...
  • 4|24. LUVYH. Neck Whitening Cream 100gm. ...
  • 4.3|53. INTIMIFY. Vitamin C Serum-30ml. ...
  • LUVYH. Pack of 2 Whitening Face Gel. 349 998 ( 65 % OFF)
  • 3.6|5. INTIMIFY. Underarm Whitening Serum-10ml. ...
  • Color. Brown. Multi. ...
  • 4.4|414. Colorbar. Hydra White Intense Serum. ...
  • 3.8|6. Melalumin. Under Eye Serum - 15ml. 950.

How long does it take to lighten hyperpigmentation?

How long does it take for hyperpigmentation to fade? Once what's causing the dark spots or patches is found and stopped, fading can take time. A spot that is a few shades darker than your natural skin color will usually fade within 6 to 12 months.

What is the trending ingredient for hyperpigmentation?

  • Azelaic acid. Azelaic acid is a topical medication that can be bought with a prescription or over-the-counter. ...
  • Niacinamide. ...
  • Tranexamic acid. ...
  • Thiamidol. ...
  • Kojic acid.

Do Koreans use kojic acid?

One of the most popular beauty ingredients from South Korea, Kojic acid has many beauty benefits.

How to remove pigmentation from face permanently?

How to Get Rid of Hyperpigmentation from the Face Permanently?
  1. Topical Treatments with Active Ingredients. Topical treatments remain one of the most effective ways to target pigmentation at home. ...
  2. Chemical Peels. ...
  3. Laser Treatments. ...
  4. Sun Protection. ...
  5. Natural Remedies.

What percentage of kojic acid is effective for hyperpigmentation?

Safety Assessment of Kojic Acid

These inhibitors are important due to their ability to prevent pigmentation disorders. The safety studies performed recommend the use of KA in topical preparations at a concentration of 1% or less because, in these ranges, it shows efficient and safe properties [2].

What not to do when using kojic?

Kojic acid is generally suitable for all skin types. However, if it is combined with other exfoliating acids like glycolic acid, it is recommended not to use it every night to avoid over-exfoliating the skin. Kojic acid can cause irritation or contact dermatitis if the concentration is too high.

What is best paired with kojic acid?

What Pairs Well with Kojic Acid?
  • Glycolic Acid: The Glow Amplifier.
  • Niacinamide: The Soothing Balancer.
  • Licorice Extract: The Gentle Equalizer.
  • Cica: The Healing Touch.
  • Hyaluronic Acid: The Hydration Boost.
  • Benzoyl Peroxide: The Clash of Titans.
  • High Concentrations of AHAs/BHAs: The Acid Overload.

Is it better to use kojic acid in the morning or at night?

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.

How can I make kojic acid more effective?

Because kojic acid pairs well with most ingredients, it is often combined with other skin-brightening elements (like niacinamide, azelaic acid, vitamin C, and tranexamic acid) to enhance its effects. Says Dr.

Which serum is best with kojic acid?

La Roche-Posay Glycolic B5 Serum with Kojic Acid

Not only does it boast the most Amazon reviews, but this kojic acid skincare product relies on some impressive ingredients to give you cover-shot-worthy skin minus Photoshop.

Can I use Vitamin C and kojic acid together?

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.

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