Whilst Kojic acid acts by directly inhibiting the key enzyme in melanin synthesis, Tranexamic acid targets the inflammatory pathways that lead to increased pigmentation. As such, Kojic acid may be better for general pigmentation concerns and overall skin brightening.
Salicylic acid is one of the best acids for hyperpigmentation. It contains anti-inflammatory effects that help with post-acne pigmentation. It is an exfoliating agent that removes dark spots and acne-causing bacteria along with dead skin cells that can lead to pigmentation.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.”
Hydroquinone. Topical HQ is regarded as the gold standard for the treatment of facial hyperpigmentation. HQ is a bleaching agent that acts by inhibiting tyrosinase to limit melanin production in the skin.
Tranexamic acid helps to control bleeding. Growing evidence suggests it may be a beneficial ingredient to include in skin care products. It may be particularly useful for treating dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and melasma. Tranexamic acid, which some people may call TXA, is a medicine that can help blood to clot.
One of the newest topical pigment-lightening ingredients in the OTC realm is tranexamic acid.
Conclusion. The expert suggested that kojic acid is suitable for nearly all skin types and may work more effectively for pigmentation and dark spots. It usually does not cause acne or irritation. However, how you use it may depend on your personal preference and skin needs.
Alpha Arbutin has comparatively fewer risks than many whitening ingredients, including kojic acid, making it effective for dark spots and melanin overproduction. While kojic acid has been proven to be more effective than alpha-arbutin, it is hard to store.
Cautions with other medicines
Tranexamic acid can be taken with most other medicines. However, talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you're taking the combined contraceptive pill. There could be a very small increased risk of getting a blood clot if you take tranexamic acid as well.
You may see more noticeable changes in hyperpigmentation, including a reduction in the intensity of dark spots and melasma. Your skin tone may look more even, and pigmentation continues to fade. For more stubborn types of skin discolorations, visible improvements can take 8 to 12 weeks or longer.
Lactic acid treats acne, acne scarring, dark spots, hyperpigmentation, photoaging, and other skin blemishes.
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.
Treatment: Ingredients like hydroquinone, tretinoin, tazarotene, glycolic acid, azelaic acid, niacinamide, tranexamic acid, thiamidol, kojic acid, and vitamin C are highlighted for their roles in treating hyperpigmentation by lightening dark spots and promoting an even skin tone.
Skin Type- If your skin is sensitive, Alpha Arbutin would be an obvious choice as it is gentle and safe compared to most other ingredients that serve the same purpose.
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.
One of the most popular beauty ingredients from South Korea, Kojic acid has many beauty benefits.
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.
For glass skin, look for serums with niacinamide, vitamin C, or hyaluronic acid.
If you want to try an over-the-counter fade cream, choose one that contains hydroquinone, glycolic acid or kojic acid. Some products, especially those that contain hydroquinone, may cause skin irritation. You could also apply makeup to help make age spots less noticeable.