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.
Kojic acid is objectively better for pigmentation and spot treatment. Vitamin C is meant for general brightening.
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.
Glycolic Acid
It sloughs off dead cells to disperse surface pigment and directly inhibits melanin formation in melanocytes, contributing to a brighter complexion. Beyond its exfoliating benefits, glycolic acid encourages collagen production, fostering smoother skin texture along with even tone.
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.
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.
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.
A fantastic anti-aging product that does everything is glycolic acid. Glycolic acid is the most widely used alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) for skin care. Because it is the smallest AHA and is derived from sugar cane, it penetrates the skin the best.
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.
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).
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.
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.
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.”
"Pure ascorbic acid has consistently been proven to be the most effective at penetrating the skin barrier," says Dr. Wexler. Other dermatologist-approved forms of vitamin C you may come across in skin-care products include tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate, magnesium ascorbyl phosphate, and methylsilanol ascorbate.
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.
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.
Glycolic acid contains antibacterial and anti-ageing properties that benefit the skin by reducing acne marks, fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation and more while improving skin texture and complexion.
Both hyaluronic acid and vitamin C are natural and work against the signs of aging. When used together, the anti-aging benefits are amplified. Hyaluronic acid locks in moisture while vitamin C increases collagen production. Each substance keeps dryness at bay and promotes excellent skin elasticity.
For glass skin, look for serums with niacinamide, vitamin C, or hyaluronic 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.
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.