Ingredient name
Kojic acid
Type of ingredient
Skin lightening agent
Commonly found in
Creams and serums that can help with sun damage, melasma and hyperpigmentation
What are the benefits of Kojic Acid?
Kojic acid prevents the formation of tyrosine, which is an amino acid that produces melanin. Melanin causes pigmentation. Kojic acid can help to lighten pigmentation and have an anti-aging effect on the skin. It also has some antibacterial properties so it can improve acne.
What is Kojic Acid?
It is an ingredient found in concentrations of 1% or less that can help reduce pigmentation in melasma, sun spots or scars.
Is Kojic Acid safe for all skin types and tones?
Generally yes, but those with sensitive skin should be cautious as it can cause contact dermatitis. If used long term, it can also make your skin more sensitive to the sun. It should not be used to lighten your natural skin color.
Contraindications
Redness, itching or irritation could be signs of contact dermatitis.
Sources
Petak, Tesa. “Kojic acid for skin.” In Style. Aug 2022
Saeedi M, Eslamifar M, Khezri K. Kojic acid applications in cosmetic and pharmaceutical preparations. Biomed Pharmacother. 2019 Feb;110:582-593. doi: 10.1016/j.biopha.2018.12.006.
Zachary CM, Wang JV, Saedi N. Kojic Acid for Melasma: Popular Ingredient in Skincare Products. Skinmed. 2020 Oct 1;18(5):271-273. eCollection 2020.
