Kojic acid serums are more concentrated and are ideal for targeted treatment of dark spots or hyperpigmentation.
Lactic acid will exfoliate but not reduce hyperpigmentation. Kojic acid would be your best bet. PCA has a really nice pigment bar cleanser that has Kojic acid.
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.
Hyperpigmentation. Glycolic acid can be an effective ingredient for reducing hyperpigmentation. However, strong or irritating skin care products can also cause hyperpigmentation. It is especially important for people who are prone to hyperpigmentation to use nonirritating, gentle exfoliants.
Absolutely, and mixing the two is where the magic happens. When you combine Glycolic Acid's exfoliating prowess with Kojic Acid's pigment-fighting abilities, you get a skincare symphony that's music to your skin cells. Think of Glycolic Acid as the opener of the tightly-sealed jar that is your skin.
“Those with darker skin tones, need to be cautious with glycolic acid,” warns Dr Buldeo. “It can cause a paradoxical darkening of the skin by stimulating melanocytes,” These are the melanin-producing cells in your skin's deepest layer so this can lead to hyperpigmentation in black skin.
If you have dry or damaged skin it might be more susceptible to the potential darkening effects of kojic acid. Ensuring your skin is healthy and well-nourished is key to making kojic acid work in your favor. A balanced diet, ample hydration, and a good sleep cycle can all contribute to healthier skin.
After about a month, you should notice clearer skin as glycolic acid works to keep skin clean and decongested. Two months in, you should see that dark spots and pigmentation is reduced as the regular glycolic acid application is melting away old, dead skin cells and increasing cell turnover.
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].
Yes, but glycolic acid is better for normal to dry skin, while vitamin C works well for all skin types, especially those prone to dullness or pigmentation.
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].
One of the newest topical pigment-lightening ingredients in the OTC realm is tranexamic acid.
Kojic acid can significantly lighten the skin, but these effects are generally not permanent without ongoing maintenance. Continuous use is necessary to sustain the lightened skin tone. Permanent changes in skin color are rare and typically require a combination of treatments under professional supervision.
Tranexamic Acid Is The Ingredient Dermatologists Swear By For Hyperpigmentation | Vogue.
Niacinamide is generally considered more effective for hyperpigmentation as it inhibits melanin production. Glycolic acid works by increasing cell turnover to reveal newer skin. Using both can provide a powerful approach.
Both are available over the counter and inhibit melanin production. However, Kojic acid is considered more potent and is thus a preferred choice for more stubborn 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.
Skin irritation: Kojic acid can dry and irritate some people's skin, especially if you already have sensitive skin.
But there isn't enough reliable information to know if glycolic acid is safe to use by mouth. Stay on the safe side and stick to topical products. Sensitive skin: Glycolic acid can cause skin irritation and make certain skin conditions worse. Use cautiously in people with sensitive skin.
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.
Glycolic acid is the alpha-hydroxy acid used most commonly by dermatologists for chemical peeling. It is used in concentrations from 20%–70% in all skin types. It should be used in lower concentrations initially, and then the strength of the peel should be gradually increased in subsequent sessions.
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 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.