Kojic acid works on only one cause, inhibiting melanin production, and is ineffective against the other two chief reasons. It also comes with its cautions and probable effects such as itching, inflammation, burning, redness, and increased skin sensitivity, leading to more sunburns.
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.
Because kojic acid pairs well with most ingredients, it is often combined with other skin-brightening elements (like niacinamide, azelaic acid, vitamin C, and tranexamic acid) to enhance its effects. Says Dr.
It typically takes about 2-4 weeks to see results from using kojic acid cream, although this can vary depending on individual skin sensitivity and usage. Kojic acid is an effective ingredient for reducing hyperpigmentation and sun damage, but it may cause irritation or dryness in some people.
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.
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.
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.
FOR KOJIC ACID
Results won't happen overnight. Consistency is key. It will take 1-2 months of consistent topical use before you begin to see improvements for the lightening of age spots/sun spots, dark spots, or the treatment of melasma.
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.
As per scientific research [4], kojic acid is safe to use within 1-4% concentration in cosmetics. Two double-blind studies concluded that a combination of 2% kojic acid with 2% hydroquinone and 4% kojic acid with 5% glycolic acid works efficiently on pigmentation.
Moisturize: Follow up with a nourishing moisturizer to seal in the benefits of kojic acid and keep your skin hydrated. Sunscreen (AM only): Since kojic acid can increase sun sensitivity, always finish with a broad-spectrum sunscreen during the day.
Kojic acid's properties allow it to be a bleaching agent when used in creams, gels, and other cosmetics. Kojic acid is similar to a chemical called hydroquinone. They are both effective treatments for hyperpigmentation.
Alpha Arbutin has comparatively fewer risks than many whitening ingredients, including kojic acid, making it effective for dark spots and melanin overproduction.
Hydroquinone for example may be able to stop your skin from making new, healthy collagen - a protein which allows your skin to resist fine lines and wrinkles. The bottom line: Kojic acid skincare is not cytotoxic and therefore cannot permanently lighten your skin tone.
Kojic acid is generally suitable for all skin types. However, if it is combined with other exfoliating acids like glycolic acid, it is recommended not to use it every night to avoid over-exfoliating the skin. Kojic acid can cause irritation or contact dermatitis if the concentration is too high.
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.
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 useful, if obvious, solution to the problem would be to add a preservative such as sodium metabisulphite. Sodium metabisulphite is in a class of preservatives that release sulphur dioxide. This increases the stability of kojic acid noticeably, keeping discolouration to a low level for up to two months.
To increase its effectiveness, kojic acid is frequently combined with other skin lightening agents such as hydroquinone, vitamin C, and niacinamide. Although it is generally regarded as safe for use in skincare products, some people may experience skin irritation or sensitivity.