Kojic acid can cause irritation and sun sensitivity. You can also use a daily moisturizer and sunscreen to protect your skin. American Academy of Dermatology.
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.
Avoid using concentrated kojic acid on your skin daily if you have hypersensitive or reactive skin. It can make your skin more sensitive to sun damage. Therefore, always follow up with sunscreen during the day. It can also dry or irritate your skin if you have allergies or sensitivity.
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.
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.
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.
SAFETY: Kojic acid is safe for topical use in concentrations of up to 1% in skin care products. Do not use longer than 3 months at a time.
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].
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.”
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.
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.
Hydroquinone (HQ)
HQ is the agent of choice for skin lightening. Combining HQ with a steroid cream and tretinoin have superior efficacy when compared to HQ alone. Although it's considered safe, there may be side effects and is subject to pre-market approval by Health Sciences Authority (HSA).
Skin whitening treatments work by targeting the tyrosinase activity in the skin cells. Tyrosinase is an enzyme that is necessary for production of skin pigment melanin. Skin whitening treatments consist of tyrosinase inhibitors that work by blocking the enzyme tyrosinase which in turn reduces the melanin production.
Kojic acid soap can take months to show results, and it often takes up to three months for kojic acid products to work. 7 Because kojic acid soap can irritate and dry skin with persistent use, some people use kojic acid soap for a few months and then take a break to help avoid irritation.
Kojic acid works on only one cause, inhibiting melanin production, and is ineffective against the other two chief reasons. It also comes with its cautions and probable effects such as itching, inflammation, burning, redness, and increased skin sensitivity, leading to more sunburns.
HOME OF THE ORIGINAL KOJIC ACID SOAP
Kojie San offers a unique range of skincare products that have been helping people achieve more beautiful, radiant skin for years. Its unique formula features Kojic Acid, which prevents the UV-activation of tyrosinase, which then limits the pigmentation production.
You should opt for a night cream with skin-brightening and hydrating ingredients, such as Ubtan or Rice Water. You should thus try Mamaearth Ubtan Night Cream to remove dark spots on the face while you're asleep.