It was first discovered in the year 1907. HAIR STYLING TOOLS, HAIR You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. It also delivers some antioxidant protection. (This kojic acid face serum has less than 1% brightening vitamin C, antioxidant-rich azelaic acid, and exfoliating glycolic and lactic acids.). 1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3663177/. "Vit C's effectiveness increases when combined with other antioxidants, such as vitamin E, [and] together, they can double protection against free-radical damage." It is best to consult a dermatologist on the right KA product for your skin type. According to Dr. Parul Khot, dermatologist and cosmetologist, Mumbai, Kojic acid is a skin brightening compound found naturally in nature. "I have tried other products to help with facial dark spots or hyperpigmentation, which have felt harsh on my skin, however this product does not," says one Amazon reviewer with self-proclaimed "super sensitive skin.". This is mainly due to the unstable nature of the vitamin C molecule which breaks down when exposed to air or light reason why is mostly formulated in serums. You likely already know about (and probably use) glycolic and salicylic acids in your beauty routine, but there's another somewhat under-the-radar acid that deserves some time in the skincare spotlightparticularly if your goal is a brighter, more even complexion. Vitamin C also has the capacity to fade dark and brown spots. Yes, kojic acid can function as a strong chemical exfoliator as well. In fact, many claims that it works on similar grounds as another popular chemical exfoliator, glycolic acid. Creams and cleansers may be used daily. If soap containing kojic acid is used regularly, it may help prevent both bacterial and fungal infections on the body. A comparative study on various melasma treatments revealed that a Kojic acid (3%)+Vitamin C (2%) cream was effective at improving discolorations on the skin after a hydroquinone+Tretinoin and an azelaic acid cream. When using kojic acid with powders, it is wise to mix it with either lotion or water and abide by product instruction. Board-certified dermatologists Dr. Blair Murphy Rose, M.D., FAAD, and Dr. Anar Mikailov, M.D., FAAD, founder of Skintensive, both say kojic acid derives from various fungi species and brightens and exfoliates the skin by minimizing and preventing hyperpigmentation caused by sun damage, age spots, and melasma. Spot-fading and skin brightening is the name of the game for this ingredient, though it does have a few other standout qualities. The Powerful Benefits of Azelaic Acid for Clearing Blackheads, The Complete Guide to Using Mandelic Acid: Benefits, Uses and FAQs, The Seborrheic Dermatitis Diet: Foods to Avoid and Foods to Eat, It helps improve skin texture by boosting the. We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we back. Products with magnesium ascorbyl phosphate may be less likely to irritate. When using kojic acid in the form of creams and serums, allow the product to dry out completely before layering the next step in your skincare routine. What Shouldn't You Mix With Alpha Arbutin? Products like the PHB Ethical Beauty Superfood serum combine both kojic acid and vitamin C to revive and brighten the skin. Chanel Le Blanc Brightening Concentrate: An Innovative Way To Reduce Dark Spots? to our readers every single time. Additionally, it contains Glutathione, Vitamin C, Kojic Acid, and Azelaoyl Diglycinate, all of which work together to deliver a 4X powerful lightning effect. Both. Also worth noting: "When used over time, kojic acid may also make your skin more susceptible to the sun," says Chang. .css-1x6m5py{-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;text-decoration-thickness:0.0625rem;text-decoration-color:inherit;text-underline-offset:0.25rem;color:#1c1c9b;-webkit-transition:all 0.3s ease-in-out;transition:all 0.3s ease-in-out;background-image:linear-gradient( to bottom, rgb(233, 240, 252), rgb(233, 240, 252));-webkit-background-position:0 100%;background-position:0 100%;background-repeat:repeat-x;-webkit-background-size:0 0;background-size:0 0;padding-top:0.05rem;padding-bottom:0.05rem;}.css-1x6m5py:hover{color:#1c1c9b;text-decoration-color:border-link-body-hover;-webkit-background-size:.625rem 3.125rem;background-size:.625rem 3.125rem;}Vitamin C is one of the most loved brightening skincare heroes in the game, but there's an increasingly popular ingredient emerging with incredible benefits that you might not know about and it needs to be on your radar. Lets find out: Kojic acid is a skin-lightener made by bacteria. She specializes in leading-edge facial rejuvenation techniques. It has an anti-aging effect. By inhibiting tyrosinase, you regulate the production of melanin, so it stops releasing any excess pigment. Is it safe to use Kojic acid and Vitamin C together? The Battle Of The Skin-Lighteners: Which Is The Best Alternative To Hydroquinone? And be careful where you buy this! If rashes or irritation occurs after using kojic acid products, discontinue use immediately and talk to your doctor about it. 1 It is thus potent in any form of products, be it lotions, creams, serums, powders, etc. One Amazon reviewer who developed hyperpigmentation during menopause was floored that this product outperformed other kojic acid skincare products she had previously tried. You may have gleaned by now that kojic acid is a powerful ingredient. Ahead, experts explain why and how kojic acid works, who should give it a whirl, and which products to try. kojic acid, azelaic acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid, linoleic acid, ascorbic acid, ferulic acid. If you want to use products containing kojic acid to treat a certain condition or cosmetic appearance, make an appointment to see your dermatologist. In the low concentrations used in skincare products (anything too high will irritate skin, remember? Go for products that contain kojic acid over vitamin c as such products are likely to give you better results and faster. See how to do it right and avoid side effects. Quantitative determination of -arbutin, -arbutin, kojic acid, nicotinamide, hydroquinone, resorcinol, 4-methoxyphenol, 4-ethoxyphenol, and ascorbic acid from skin whitening products by HPLC-UV. You may see greater results or faster results if you also add glycolic acid to the treatment. All rights reserved. This non-greasy cream is for necklines and whitening to nourish and hydrate your skin without leaving a shine. Since kojic acid also doubles up as a mild AHA, it can help give your skin the proper exfoliation needed for vitamin C to work its magic on dark spots and dullness. Kojic Acid Vs Vitamin C for hyperpigmentation, It should be fun. Whenever we go to a beauty store or a stand and inquire about brightening formulations, we are often introduced to products containing vitamin c. Kristina Goldenberg from Goldenberg Dermatology in New York City, Says, The key is not the vehicle that Vit C comes in, but the form of Vit C that is being applied. Read on to learn how to avoid some common pitfalls. VALITIC Kojic Acid Dark Spot Remover Soap Bars with Vitamin C, Retinol, Collagen, Turmeric - Original Japanese Complex Infused with Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin E, Shea Butter, Castile Olive Oil (2 Pack) Poleview Kojic Acid Soap Skin Lightening Soap for Body & Face Glowing Radiance Skin, Dark Spots, Even Skin Tone and Reduce Appearance of . (2013). Bhanusali adds that it's also a good option for those who want to avoid or can't tolerate hydroquinone, one of the most often used skin-lightening ingredients. Kojic acid is also considered to have some antifungal benefits. Never use the ingredient on broken or irritable skin, and always use sunscreen in the morning to protect the skin.. Kojic acid is a more recent remedy for treating pigment problems and age spots. (2010). Although mostly considered safe, it can irritate very sensitive skin. Keep this in mind, and be particularly mindful of using sunscreen or wearing protective clothing. If your skin is super sensitive, Nazarian recommends not using it daily at first; instead, work kojic acid-based products into your regimen just once or twice per week to ensure that your skin can tolerate the ingredient. inject Kojic Acid into the skin. DOI: Kim JH. Related: The Best Skincare Routine To Fade Away Dark Spots. A level of Tranexamic Acid and other skin brighteners including Kojic Acid, Niacinamide and Licorice : High concentration of Glycinated Azelaic Acid, along with Niacinamide, Vitamin C and coffee seed extract : Mandelic acid, Natural fruit AHAs and Niacinamide : PHA, Lingonberry stem cells and Hyaluronic Acid : Key Benefits Below are some issues you could encounter when incorporating kojic acid into your routine and how to counter them if at all possible. You can use kojic acid to treat areas of hyperpigmentation or scarring, but you shouldnt use it in an attempt to lighten your natural complexion. Those with super sensitive skin or eczema should do a test on the inside of the wrist before use, just to be safe. Those with normal to oily skin shouldn't have an issue . Burnett C, et al. The most common side effect/repercussion of kojic acid is contact dermatitis. Her hobbies include home workouts, watching foreign films and binge-watching makeover shows! Kojic acid can do wonders for your skin and to help you learn all about it, our beauty editor, Nicole Saunders, tapped a few board-certified dermatologists for their . But and this is an important but you need to use sunscreen religiously. A study published in December 2017 in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology found that this combination retinoid cream performed as well as a prescription retinoid product in diminishing the signs of. If youre looking to stay forever young, consider adding kojic acid to your rotation. Again, we recommend staying away from this option. And Kojic Acid is more effective than mulberry extract and Arbutin (a natural form of hydroquinone). Vitamin C. Vitamin C is a naturally occurring antioxidant that interacts with copper ions at the tyrosinase active site. It's the perfect reset button for playing dermatologist at home," says Saunders. Two reasons: Is it worth to irritate skin for mediocre results? Over time, long-term use of kojic acid may make your skin more susceptible to sunburn. Too much sun exposure, smoking, allergic reactions, and even lip sucking can lead to. PRODUCTS Although irritation is unlikely, one should always do a patch test before complete application. Also, people with sensitive skin must use it cautiously. Thank you for subscribing! Kojic Acid itself isnt classified as comedogenic, so it wont make you breakout. Now everythings back under control, your dark spots slowly go back to their natural lighter colour. Prolonged use of kojic acid may increase the skins sensitivity to the sun leading to sunburns. Its even added to some antifungal products to increase their effectiveness. Kojic acid and Vitamin C are two ingredients loved by dermatologists for the treatment of hyperpigmentation, dark spots, scars, and age spots caused by UV rays. Were not rats or mice. They can also provide you with information about dosage and complementary treatments. Take that, Vitamin C. Should you give it a try? Kojic acid is made from several different types of fungi. Check out our derm-approved picks for the best acne, Hyperpigmentation from acne happens when inflammation causes the skin to produce excess melanin. Always do a patch test before use. A trendy additive found in many serums and depigmentation creams, let a skin expert detail everything you need to know about kojic acid. Amazon reviewers say it's excellent for targeting dark spots on their skin minus the irritation, which is always a win. Kojic isnt the only ingredient that can help with discoloration, acne, and hyperpigmentation. Folliculitis keloidalis nuchae and pseudofolliculitis barba: Are prevention and effective treatment within reach? Especially if your skin struggles to tolerate hydroquinone, a strong lightening agent, this ingredient will be a godsend to you. No Paraben; No Sulfate; No Phthalates, No Artificial fragrance; No color added. DOI: Wang YH, et al. Because this ingredient is classified as both an antioxidant and an exfoliant, it has a plethora of properties that you may find beneficial for your skin. Vitamin C helps boost collagen formation for firmer skin. This can result in an anti-aging effect on the skin. Or it was recommended to you when you mentioned struggles with skin discoloration, scarring, and hyperpigmentation? 4. Kojic Acid VS Hydroquinone: Which One Is Right For You? MAKEUP Kojic Acid VS Vitamin C Which is better? Skin gritting is a specific method of blackhead removal, popularized by the adventurous souls of Reddits SkincareAddiction community. Always . A. Lip balms infused with the compound should be used in combination with an SPF to help lighten lips and prevent further darkening due to factors like constant lip-licking or smoking. It looks like an orange semi-soft soap brick, that you can use to lather up foam and wash your face with. To avoid any significant side effects, you should take the following precautions while using kojic acid products: Now that we have a fair understanding of kojic acid, let us move to the topic of Vitamin C. Patricia Wexler,board-certified dermatologist , Says. Sake. Even though kojic acid has been declared a safe ingredient for cosmetic use, few people may face mild repercussions/side effects. Murphy Rose is a fan of Skinceuticals Discoloration Defense because it fights hyperpigmentation with an effective combination of 1% kojic acid, 3% tranexamic acid, and 5% niacinamide. TIP: As a general rule, serums should be layered underneath your moisturizer. (2019). . Stick to the real thing. HAIRCUTS AND STYLES Sun damage can darken your skin, especially if youre exfoliating (it makes skin more prone to sun damage, including dark spots). Its also a byproduct when certain foods ferment, including Japanese sake, soy sauce, and rice wine. Its way more stable than Kojic Acid, BUT theres no proof it can lighten dark spots and discolourations. You can use this to lightly hydrate and boost your skin care routine before layering on heavy duty items like serums. Hydroquinone and Kojic acid are both well-known topical hypopigmented agents with comparable efficacy. Kojic acid is a byproduct of the fermentation process of certain foods such as rice wine, soy sauce, and Japanese sake. We have used natural vitamin c to brighten skin at home for the longest time, but the concept of kojic acid seems to be a bit new. It also has the added benefit of working well when paired with other skin-lightening ingredients (namely the gold standard hydroquinone, most commonly prescribed by derms). 2. Henry also advises slowly incorporating kojic acid into your routine by using it a couple of times a week and increasing the frequency up to twice daily depending on how well your skin tolerates the ingredient and each brand's instructions. Both kojic acid and vitamin c are considered great for the skin and are used in many skincare products. Lee M, et al. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'greenbeautytalk_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_13',106,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-greenbeautytalk_com-medrectangle-3-0'); Vitamin C is one of the most widely known ingredients in the skincare industry. DOI: Cabanes J, et al. At 1% and higher concentrations, it has high sensitising potential and can cause irritations and allergies. With the meteoric rise of East Asian skin care products and practices hitting our aisles, you may have noticed kojic acid getting the limelight on more than one product. Kojic acid has also been found to be a very safe product to be used on the skin. When compared to Kojic acid, vitamin C is less effective. Kojic acid may be helpful in dealing with the melasma of the skin. See additional information. A. It helps stimulate collagen production and acts as a humectant, attracting moisture to the skin. Products containing kojic acid help lighten dark spots and skin regions that have become discolored and look dull. Proceed with caution and start using any products that contain kojic acid and other actives gradually, giving your skin some time to acclimate. How Does Kojic Acid Compares With Other Skin-Lightening Ingredients? White spots on your nipples are usually harmless. 10 Things you need to know about skin hydration, The Uses and Benefits of Oleic Acid for Skin. Yes, kojic acid can be used to get rid of pigmentation on your lips as well. Is Kojic Acid Safe Or Will It Harm Your Skin ? The name kojic acid is taken from the Japanese term "koji," meaning "steamed rice." Contact dermatitis is the most common side effect of kojic acid. (2019). .css-ko4pd{display:block;font-family:Campton,Helvetica,Arial,Sans-serif;font-weight:bold;margin-bottom:0;margin-top:0;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}@media (any-hover: hover){.css-ko4pd:hover{color:link-hover;}}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-ko4pd{font-size:1.05rem;line-height:1.2;margin-bottom:0.25rem;}}@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-ko4pd{font-size:1.28598rem;line-height:1.2;}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.css-ko4pd{font-size:1.39461rem;line-height:1.2;margin-bottom:0.5rem;}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-ko4pd{font-size:1.09345rem;line-height:1;}}WTF Are Epilators, and Do You Need One? You know what else creates kojic acid? Some products combine both active ingredients in their formulation. Based on expert guidance, Saunders also shared two affordable kojic acid products worth owning and one costs just under $18! As a skincare ingredient, it can be used as an emulsifier or as a cleansing agent.. What's more, there is emerging research about lauric acid being a good anti-acne ingredient.A 2009 study found that the lowest concentration to prevent evil acne . Kojic acid is found to be a more irritating agent. You will also notice that both forms of serum bottles are darkened on purpose. Dermstore reviewers appreciate that this kojic acid skincare product reduces the appearance of dark spots without any burning or tingling sensations. But you can only use it in 4 months cycles. While kojic acid is considered a fairly safe ingredient to use on a variety of skin types, it can be a bit overwhelming for some people. While many products do not list the concentration of kojic acid available, some manufacturers do offer a blend of ingredients to fight hyperpigmentation. It is possible to use kojic acid together with vitamin C on your skin, however, if you have sensitive skin it is advisable to layer them separately in your routine. Just because something is bad for them, doesnt mean its bad for us. Can It Make You Breakout Or Give You Acne? Blair Murphy-Rose, MD is a board-certified dermatologist in New York. Heres How To Use It! When it comes to skin care products with tranexamic acid, a small 2014 study found that the most common side effects include: dryness. You can find out more about our use, change your default settings, and withdraw your consent at any time with effect for the future by visiting Cookies Settings, which can also be found in the footer of the site. It's also in breast milk. Further research is needed to identify and understand any other potential side effects. She covers all things skincare for Byrdie, from ingredients to acne advice. Vitamin C inhibits melanin production that, in turn, reduces. You can address dryness and flaking by . whiteness is a socialized beauty standard, maximum kojic acid concentration of 1 percent, Marie France Kojic Acid (Maximum Strength), Kikumasamune Sake Skin Lotion High Moisture, PRO Strength Niacinamide Discoloration Treatment, derm.theclinics.com/article/S0733-8635(13)00136-8/fulltext, link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s13555-016-0154-1, jddonline.com/articles/dermatology/S1545961619P0454X, pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Kojic-acid, link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12257-018-0492-1, sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0753332218367477, ec.europa.eu/health/sites/health/files/scientific_committees/consumer_safety/docs/sccs_o_098.pdf, Pimple Probs? During the breaks, you can turn to Kojic Acid instead (as long as your skin isnt too sensitive). 2015;60(2):147-152. doi:10.4103/0019-5154.152510, Cysteamine for Skin: How This Antioxidant Can Help Fade Dark Spots, The 9 Best Brightening Deodorants of 2023, Skin Discoloration Has Many Causesand Just As Many Treatment Options, The 14 Best Products for Hyperpigmentation of 2023, Hyperpigmentation 101: Causes, Treatments, and Tips From Dermatologists, Arbutin Is the Acne-fighting Molecule Dermatologists LoveHeres Why, Licorice Extract for Skin: Benefits and How to Use, 9 Ways to Treat Melasma Once and For All, According to Dermatologists, How to Apply Eye Cream Like a DermatologistDirectly From the Pros. Receive an email when a new post goes live. A main use for kojic acid. Kojic Acid works. Download your FREE 'Best Anti-Aging Skincare Routine" cheatsheet to find out what really works to prevent aging and minimise wrinkles (plus, weekly tips). Glycolic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid that loosens bonds between dead skin cells. We have some tips for you and associated products to suit your needs but keep in mind that whichever kojic acid product you choose, be it one of the products below or another, to not load your skin care routine with this ingredient at every step. Who should use it: Generally, tranexamic acid is safe for all skin types. Lajis AF, et al. Two popular products include the PCA SKIN Pigment Bar and the Marie France Kojic Acid (Maximum Strength). I also like how it evened my skin tone but is still very gentle," says one Amazon reviewer, who adds it's now a staple in their skincare routine. A 12 carbon length fatty acid that can be found naturally in coconut milk, coconut oil, laurel oil, and palm kernel oil. Some products, like soaps and cleansers, are meant to be washed off immediately. Whenever we go to a beauty store or a stand and inquire about brightening formulations, we are often introduced to products containing vitamin c. The word to look for is ascorbic acid (also known as. (2012). We love a multitasker! Post this, kojic acid has a high safety profile, so it can be safely used for a long time, even for months at a time without any side effects.. HAIR TYPE We tell you how to maintain your skin health and make, Jock itch and related conditions can cause discomfort and itchy, irritated skin. As an alternative, kojic acid is your best bet for coupling with retinol and vitamin C for optimal brightening benefits, says board-certified dermatologist Azadeh Shirazi, who is based in. Blame it on aging and sun damage. 2019;110:582-593. doi:10.1016/j.biopha.2018.12.006, Mahajan R, Kanwar AJ, Parsad D, Kumaran MS, Sharma R. Glycolic Acid peels/azelaic Acid 20% cream combination and low potency triple combination lead to similar reduction in melasma severity in ethnic skin: results of a randomized controlled study. Though kojic acid works alone, there are a few ingredients that you can mix with it for the best results. Mixing kojic acid powder in with other products is an exact science, and DIYing it could result in an ultra-concentrated mixture which could harm you. It's compatible with all skin types but is especially great for combination and oily skin because of its lightweight formulation and non-greasy feel. Wrapping up, Dr. Khot gave her stamp of approval in the use of kojic acid to deal with your pigmentation woes saying, Kojic acid is an excellent brightening ingredient with high safety and tolerability profile. Tags: hyperpigmentation, la roche posay, skinceuticals. Kojic acid helps reduce the skin's discoloration and, thus, lightens scars. You can also use serums like a spot treatment, applying to problem-areas to hit them where it hurts. They damage your skin so it pumps out too much pigment here and there. In addition to skin-lightening effects, kojic acid also contains some antimicrobial properties. "The most effective products will stay on the skin for an extended period, so any rinse-off product, like a cleanser, will not likely work as well as a spot treatment or cream," explains Murphy Rose. It works by interfering with one of the proteins required for the skin to produce excess melanin. These sponges are made from the soft fibers found in the root of the konjac plant and are great for gentle exfoliation. Can You Use Kojic Acid With Retinol, Glycolic Acid, Vitamin C, Niacinamide, Etc? Kojic acid also brightens dark spots caused by pregnancy hormones and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) from acne. Mikailov adds there aren't a lot of reported side effects of kojic acid when used at a concentration of 1% or less. With long-term use, sensitive skin may be more at risk of getting sunburns," he says. Im not gonna lie, its often a matter of trial and error. As a result, both kojic acid and hydroquinone are often misused in attempts to bleach the skin. SKIN Here's How to Get Rid of Redness from Acne, Postpartum Acne: Causes and How to Make It Go TF Away. It helps in the treatment of fungal infection as well as curing an infection. DOI: Faig JJ, et al. More common in Korean beauty products it slowly gained popularity and has risen to the standard of the star ingredient. Products containing kojic acid are most commonly used on the face and hands, but can be used on all non-sensitive areas of the body. Kojic Acid may not be the best skin-lightener out there, but its still a good contender especially when used with other brightening agents, like glycolic acid and niacinamide. But thats all you have to worry about. Greatist only shows you brands and products that we stand behind. Fun fact: its also frequently used to keep the food in grocery stores looking fresh and tasty! But it often succeeds at fading dark spots and hyperpigmentation when others have failed. For example, face masks are only supposed to be used occasionally. Studies show that Kojic Acid alone is less effective than 2% hydroquinone in treating hyperpigmentation. Tranexamic acid, kojic acid, and niacinamide they make a triple whammy for encouraging a glow-up. It is recommended alongside other treatments for hyperpigmentation. Check your inbox for everything we promised you the latest beauty buzz as well as the best self-care & grooming tips will reach you super soon! Lightens Hyperpigmentation - Our Valitic Kojic Acid Soap is formulated with Original Japanese Complex for dark spot correction and discoloration; This soap bar is a luxuriously rich, gentle cleanser that creates the ideal surface texture for receiving the maximum benefits of our tone correcting treatments and contains natural pigment-perfecting ingredients and enhanced . (2014). Bar soaps are one of the most popular products for balancing skin tone, especially on the body. It only helps lighten the pigmentation of scars. Jan 07, 2021, 08:38 ET. It helps brighten the skin and reduce the appearance of age spots as well. Dark circles (ONLY if caused by hyperpigmentation). Alpha Arbutin and Kojic acid are both potent skin lightening agents that can be used quite well together. This brightening powerhouse is available as a solo product or in combination with vitamin C, retinol, glycolic acid, arbutin, etc. Vitamin C acts as a reducing agent at various . Retinol, Vitamin C, glycolic acid, and niacinamide all have one thing in common: they help fade away dark spots. Kojic Acid VS Hydroquinone: Which One Is Best? Related: The Battle Of The Skin-Lighteners: Which Is The Best Alternative To Hydroquinone? Main benefits: Fades discoloration, 2 brightens skin, reduces the appearance of acne scars. The Benefits of Dermarolling at Home: A Complete Guide, Overview of Purpuric Rash, a Symptom of Some Conditions, Debra Sullivan, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., CNE, COI. It is sourced from different types of fungi, like aspergillus oryzae, which has the Japanese common name of koji. Take the Salon Home With Dip-Powder Nail Kits, Expert Picks: Best Razors for Sensitive Skin, 7 Hair-Dryer Brushes for a Bouncy At-Home Blowout, 7 Shampoo Bars for an Eco-Friendly Hair Routine, 12 Best Spray Sunscreens to Use This Summer, 11 Beauty Editor-Approved Sephora Sale Must-Haves, Shop Florence by Mills New Eye Makeup Collection, 25 Celebrity Beauty Brands Beyond Fenty Beauty, Editor-Loved Best New Beauty Products for Spring, Elevate Your Glow-Up With These Self-Tanners. Do not apply kojic acid on skin that is either damaged or broken. You have to use what works for YOU. Yes - as long as your skin can take it. The non-irritating face serum earned snaps from one reviewer who says it helps improve her hyperpigmentation and the formula is so gentle that it doesn't irritate her teenage son's skin. Retinol, Vitamin C, glycolic acid, and niacinamide all have one thing in common: they help fade away dark spots. Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology , 46 (12), 982-985 https://www.ncbi . This ingredient also brightens the skin and can even lighten dark spots. Weve got you covered with our top picks for face, body, acne, and more. Unlike vitamin c, that is only potent to an extent in serums. Or that it makes your skin darker in any way. Use products as instructed. Its not as famous as azelaic acid, infamous as hydroquinone, or common as Vitamin C. Heck, most people dont even know it exists! Synergism of antifungal activity between mitochondrial respiration inhibitors and kojic acid. It may help fight off several common types of bacterial strains even in small dilutions. "If your skin responds positively, you can try to use kojic acid in your everyday skincare routine," she says.