What are the long-term effects of using kojic acid?

Author: Watson D'Amore  |  Last update: Friday, October 31, 2025

Sun sensitivity: By reducing UV-protective melanin in your skin, kojic acid makes you more sensitive to the sun, which can increase your risk of sun damage. Skin irritation: Kojic acid can dry and irritate some people's skin, especially if you already have sensitive skin.

What is the negative effect of kojic?

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.

Can I use kojic acid cream life long?

Yes, kojic acid is safe to use everyday. Depending on your skin's sensitivity, it can be used twice a day. Just remember, don't use kojic acid more than 3 months at a time because that can be damaging to your skin.

Do dermatologists recommend kojic acid?

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.”

Is kojic acid cancerous for skin?

Kojic acid and derivatives present cytotoxicity to some cancerous cell lines, including melanoma, hepatocellular carcinoma, ovarian cancer, breast cancer and colon cancer. Regarding safety, kojic acid or its derivatives are safe molecules for human use in the concentrations tested.

Does Kojic acid works for Melasma (क्या Kojic acid Melasma के लिए काम करता है) | (In HINDI)

Which is best retinol or kojic acid?

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.

What will happen if I stop using kojic acid?

If you stop using kojic acid, your skin may gradually return to its original state, particularly if the underlying causes of hyperpigmentation are not addressed. To maintain the results, it's important to integrate kojic acid into a continuous skincare routine.

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.

Is it OK to use kojic everyday?

Yes, it is generally okay to use kojic acid daily, but it should be done cautiously. Start using it a few times a week to see how your skin reacts, gradually increasing to daily use if no irritation occurs. Always follow up with a moisturizer and sunscreen, as kojic acid makes your skin more sensitive to the sun.

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.

Which is better, kojic acid or Vitamin C?

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.

Is kojic acid skin bleaching?

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].

What are the disadvantages of kojic?

Risks and Precautions

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.

Which is better, niacinamide or kojic acid?

Kojic Acid further enhances the brightening effect by inhibiting melanin production, while Niacinamide helps to improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of pores.

What foods are high in kojic acid?

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.

Can kojic acid be used long-term?

Long-term use of high-concentration products may increase the likelihood of skin irritation, dryness, or redness. Skin Depigmentation: Prolonged and excessive use of Kojic acid may cause skin depigmentation or hypopigmentation in some people, especially those with darker skin tones.

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.

Which acid is best for skin whitening?

Glycolic Acid

It is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from sugarcane. In low concentrations, glycolic acid produces desquamation of pigmented skin cells. About 30 to 70 per cent of glycolic acid can enhance the penetration of other skin lighteners such as HQ.

Is kojic acid a steroid?

A: No it doesn't contain any steroid.

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 for kojic acid to clear skin?

“Results are usually seen after four to six weeks of regular use onwards ,but improve with longer-term use.” It's also worth mentioning that skin concerns can return if you discontinue use. “I recommend kojic acid as part of a long-term maintenance plan for an even skin tone,” Dr Mansuri adds.

Does kojic acid make you look younger?

Anti-Aging: This indirect benefit is due to Kojic acid evening out skin tone by treating sun and age spots. This helps give the skin a more youthful appearance.

What is better than Kojic?

Alpha Arbutin has comparatively fewer risks than many whitening ingredients, including kojic acid, making it effective for dark spots and melanin overproduction.

Can I pair retinol with kojic acid?

Ever found yourself staring into the mirror, holding retinol and kojic acid, and pondering, "Can I use these together without disaster?" You're not alone! Welcome to the world of skincare, where chemistry isn't just a romantic thing. First things first — yes, you can use retinol and kojic acid together.

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