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.
Kojic acid and vitamin C are a winning combination for anyone dealing with hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone, dullness, dark spots, sun damage and post-inflammatory acne marks. While suitable for most, especially oily and combination skin, those with rosacea or sensitised skin may find this pairing too harsh.
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 is for external (for skin use) use only. Avoid contact with eyes, eyelids, lips, mouth, and nose. If the medicine comes in contact with any of these areas, rinse with water immediately. In some cases, you may experience irritation, itching, or burning sensation at the application site.
Go #FilterFree with 2% Kojic Acid Serum loaded with 1% Alpha Arbutin and that efficiently helps in fading dark spots with every application. The magic of 1% Alpha Arbutin works towards controlling the production of Melanin (a pigment that creates skin color).
Other active ingredients: While kojic acid works well on its own, its effects are even better when paired with other brightening agents, such as niacinamide and azelaic acid. Product type: Kojic acid needs time to absorb into skin in order to work, so it should be in a product you leave on versus one you rinse off.
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.
Kojic acid's properties allow it to be a bleaching agent when used in creams, gels, and other cosmetics. Kojic acid is similar to a chemical called hydroquinone. They are both effective treatments for hyperpigmentation.
Vitamin C's molecular size is smaller than Kojic acid's, allowing it to absorb faster into the skin. By applying it first, you ensure that the skin is not blocked by heavier molecules and that Vitamin C effectively reaches the deeper layers of the skin.
Kojic acid can lead to contact dermatitis in some people, especially those with sensitive skin. Contact dermatitis can cause a rash, itching, and dry patches of skin. In severe cases, pain and blisters can develop. The concentration of kojic acid in creams, serums, and soaps may vary by manufacturer.
Here are some ingredients to never mix with vitamin C: Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs): Lactic Acid, Malic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Citric Acid, Tartaric Acid. Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs): Tropic Acid, Betaine Salicylate, Salix Acid. Salicylic Acid.
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.
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.
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].
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.
High Concentrations of AHAs/BHAs: The Acid Overload
Now, let's talk about AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) and BHAs (Beta Hydroxy Acids). They're fantastic for exfoliation and clearing up your skin, but here's the kicker: when you mix them with kojic acid in high concentrations, it's like a bad acid trip… literally.
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.
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.
Vitamin C can help reduce hyperpigmentation and even out skin tone, with noticeable results in as little as 3-4 weeks.
Kojic acid
Kojic acid has skin-lightening properties that can help reduce the appearance of dark patches associated with melasma. It inhibits the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color10.