If you're dealing with significant pigmentation issues and you dont have sensitive skin, Kojic acid may be the solution for you. Conversely, if you have sensitive skin and are looking for a gentler option that treats multiple concerns like hydration and inflammation, Niacinamide is your best bet.
Lastly, niacinamide is also a gentle skin brightening agent. It works by inhibiting the transfer of melanin to skin cells, which is different from the direct inhibition of melanin production by Kojic acid. Niacinamide is less potent than Kojic acid for treating hyperpigmentation.
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!
By applying niacinamide before kojic acid, you ensure your skin absorbs all its yummy goodness, laying a strong base for the kojic acid to work its magic. Remember, though, everyone's skin is unique and what works for some may not work for others.
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.
In the clinical studies, niacinamide significantly decreased hyperpigmentation and increased skin lightness compared with vehicle alone after 4 weeks of use. Conclusions: The data suggest niacinamide is an effective skin lightening compound that works by inhibiting melanosome transfer from melanocytes to keratinocytes.
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.
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.
Niacinamide has been shown to ease inflammation, which can help calm redness due to conditions like acne, rosacea and eczema. It can also soothe irritation caused by strong exfoliants like retinol or glycolic acid that remove dead cells from the surface of your skin.
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.
High Concentrations of AHAs/BHAs: The Acid Overload
Now, let's talk about AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) and BHAs (Beta Hydroxy Acids). They're fantastic for exfoliation and clearing up your skin, but here's the kicker: when you mix them with kojic acid in high concentrations, it's like a bad acid trip… literally.
Discussion. Niacinamide acts as a skin brightening agent for anti-aging/anti-hyperpigmentation applications and is also helpful in reducing skin inflammatory responses such as dermatitis and acne vulgaris.
The short answer is, yes you can! If you've opted to use them separately rather than in an all-in-one cream, using niacinamide in the morning and kojic acid at night can yield great results.
Does niacinamide help hyperpigmentation? Yes, niacinamide has been shown to help visibly lighten areas of hyperpigmentation. It can reduce the appearance of dark spots and uneven skin tone, resulting in a more even-looking complexion.
What are the side effects of Niacinamide? Topical application is completely safe and may not cause any skin problems for a healthy person. People with sensitive skin may face mild redness, itching, or a burning sensation. Stomach upset.
For general skin tone correction, a niacinamide concentration between 4-5% is often effective and well-tolerated by most individuals. For those looking to tackle more pronounced hyperpigmentation, a higher concentration of 10% may be beneficial, though it's important to monitor the skin for any signs of irritation.
Niacinamide prevents pigment from being transferred to the upper layers of skin where it becomes visible to the naked eye, says Dr. Maarouf. It also minimizes the appearance of pores and redness, leaving your skin as a smooth, even canvas. It regulates oil production.
Alpha Arbutin has comparatively fewer risks than many whitening ingredients, including kojic acid, making it effective for dark spots and melanin overproduction.
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.
Both ingredients can fade hyperpigmentation and increase collagen production. Vitamin C (depending on the percentage) can be more harsh for sensitive skin types. Or, you might want to use niacinamide if you have acne-prone skin, and leverage Vitamin C for fading post-acne marks and dark spots.
The skincare industry's spotlight often flits between Glycolic Acid and Vitamin C, both known for their brightening properties. However, numerous clinical studies and dermatologist testimonials suggest that Glycolic Acid might be the more effective skin-brightening ingredient.