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.
Yes, you can use vitamin C serum after using retinol and kojic acid soap, but it's important to wait a few minutes between each product to allow them to absorb properly into the skin. Using them together can help address different skin concerns, but start slowly and monitor how your skin reacts to avoid irritation.
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.
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.”
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.
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.
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.
If you have sensitive or easily irritated skin, Kojic acid may be preferable because it is gentler and less prone to cause irritation. Retinol, on the other hand, may be better suited to people with more robust skin because it might induce early irritation and peeling.
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.
Here are some ingredients to never mix with vitamin C: Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs): Lactic Acid, Malic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Citric Acid, Tartaric Acid. Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs): Tropic Acid, Betaine Salicylate, Salix Acid. Salicylic Acid.
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.
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.
"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 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].
Both help brighten the skin but work in different ways. Kojic Acid blocks melanin production, making it great for dark spots. Whereas, vitamin C is an antioxidant that brightens the skin and boosts collagen. With so many products available, it can be hard to choose the right one for your skin.
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.
Generally, users may start to notice initial improvements in their skin tone within 2-4 weeks of regular use. However, for more significant changes, it may take up to 2-3 months. Clinical studies and user experiences suggest that consistent application is key to achieving and maintaining desired results.
Topical Hydroquinone has a faster onset of action and higher efficacy compared to kojic acid with Vitamin C.