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 helps to reduce the appearance of dark spots and promote a more even skin tone by slowing down melanin production. To increase its effectiveness, kojic acid is frequently combined with other skin lightening agents such as hydroquinone, vitamin C, and niacinamide.
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.
Chemical reactions
Deprotonation of the ring-OH group converts kojic acid to kojate. Kojate chelates to iron(III), forming a red complex Fe(HOCH 2C 5OH 2O 2) 3. This kind of reaction may be the basis of the biological function of kojic acid, that is, to solubilize ferric iron.
You can use Kojic Acid & Vitamin C together but make sure you follow an AM-PM routine. Use Vitamin C in the morning followed up by a sunscreen and Kojic Acid at night before going to bed.
Niacinamide. This superhero skincare ingredient beautifully complements kojic acid's brightening properties. It also protects the skin against environmental damage, soothes irritation, boosts collagen production, and regulates oil production so you can cover all of your skincare bases!
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.
Kojic acid soap is used to lighten dark spots on the skin caused by hyperpigmentation from acne, melasma, or sun damage. Research shows kojic acid treatments, such as topical serums, can help fade hyperpigmentation.
DON'T MIX: AHA/BHA and niacinamide
Niacinamide is used to treat hyperpigmentation and reduce fine lines and wrinkles, while alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) are chemical exfoliants. To understand why niacinamide shouldn't be mixed with AHAs and BHAs, you need to consider pH.
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.
Don't use the kojic acid soap on cut, cracked, or lightened skin conditions. If you have irritated, cut, bruised, cracked, or lightened scars or skin that suffers from loss of pigment such as in vitiligo, then you should avoid using kojic acid.
The Benefits of Combining Kojic Acid and Hyaluronic Acid
Addressing Multiple Skin Concerns: The combination of Kojic Acid and Hyaluronic Acid allows you to tackle a wide range of skin concerns, including uneven skin tone, dullness, fine lines, and dehydration, all in one comprehensive skincare routine.
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.
As sun exposure worsens hyperpigmentation it is important to protect the skin with sunscreen on a daily basis. Treatment often begins with a skin care regimen composed of a daily sunscreen, moisturizers, and skin care brighteners.
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.
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.
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.
Kojic Acid further enhances the brightening effect by inhibiting melanin production, while Niacinamide helps to improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of pores.
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.
The Synergy. When kojic acid and retinol work together, it's a one-two punch against pigmentation and aging. Kojic acid lightens dark spots and evens out skin tone, while retinol ensures your skin is fresh, smooth, and resilient.
A general rule of thumb is to layer 2-3 serums. This ensures skin doesn't become overwhelmed and gives each formula the space to absorb properly. However – as mentioned above, all skin is unique. Some skin concerns could benefit from up to 5 serums, if heightened moisture, protection and firming for example is needed.
For that reason, mixing peptides and glycolic acid is not recommended. Why shouldn't these acids be mixed with peptides? The reason peptides and salicylic acid as well as peptides and glycolic acid aren't efficacious ingredient combinations is because peptides are susceptible to hydrolysis when exposed to acids.