Which is better, kojic acid or glycolic acid? The best choice between kojic acid and glycolic acid depends on your specific skin concerns and preferences. Kojic acid is generally gentler on the skin, while glycolic acid offers deeper exfoliation.
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.
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.
Glutathione works well for all skin types vs kojic acid and is especially beneficial for those with dry or sensitive skin due to its gentle nature and hydrating benefits.
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.
Glutone 1000, renowned as one of the best skin whitening tablets is formulated with powerful antioxidants that help brighten your complexion, reduce dark spots, and promote an even, luminous tone.
Glycolic acid is highly effective in reducing dark spots and treating hyperpigmentation. It works by promoting the shedding of pigmented cells and encouraging the growth of new, evenly pigmented skin cells. This process helps to lighten dark spots and improve the uniformity of the skin's tone.
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.
Does glycolic acid remove dark spots? Glycolic acid can not permanently remove dark spots or scars, but it can help fade dark patches of skin left by acne or sun damage.
Can kojic acid make you darker? No, kojic acid does not darken your skin. In fact, it has skin lightening effects. The best kojic acid cream for hyperpigmentation is available widely in the market that diminishes dark spots and brightens up your face and body.
Glycolic acid treats acne, acne scars, hyperpigmentation, photodamage, dryness, melasma and age-related fine lines.
The Dynamic Duo
So, can Glycolic and Kojic acids be mixed? Absolutely, and mixing the two is where the magic happens.
The Brightening Superstar, Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)
Vitamin C is the best when it comes to skin lightening. Ascorbic acid, the most concentrated form of vitamin C, is a powerful antioxidant that can prevent the synthesis of melanin and lessen the appearance of hyperpigmentation and dark patches.
The kojic acid preparation was more irritating. Conclusion: Both glycolic acid/kojic acid and glycolic acid/hydroquinone topical skin care products are highly effective in reducing the pigment in melasma patients. Both formulations should be available to the dermatologist to satisfy the patient's preferences.
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.
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.
What NOT to mix with Glycolic Acid. Retinol, other AHAs/BHAs, Vitamin C: Using these ingredients alongside Glycolic Acid in the same routine could irritate the skin. However, alternating them between your morning and evening skincare routine means that you can enjoy the benefits without the risk of damaging your skin.
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].
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.
The reason why skin becomes white in using GLUTATHIONE TABLETS is because it reverses the dark melanin pigments turning to a light pigments and reduces melanocytes which produces melanin. Less the melanin, whiter the skin.
Collagen directly supports the skin's structure and hydration levels, making it essential for maintaining youthful, plump skin. For Skin Brightening and Detoxification: If you're looking to even out your skin tone, reduce hyperpigmentation, and detoxify your skin from within, glutathione is an excellent option.