Kojic Acid Powder

Description

KOJIC ACID

TYPE OF INGREDIENT: Skin brightener

MAIN BENEFITS: Inhibits an enzyme necessary in the production of melanin, helping to fade dark spots and discoloration. It also delivers some antioxidant protection.

 

WHO SHOULD USE IT:

Anyone seeking to improve the look of discoloration caused by sun damage, melasma, and/or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation that occurs after a blemish, says Chang. Bhanusali adds that it’s also a good option for those want to avoid or can’t tolerate hydroquinone, one of the most often used skin-lightening ingredients.

 

HOW OFTEN CAN YOU USE IT: This depends on what other ingredients it’s compounded with and the concentration, but generally it can be used daily.

 

WORKS WELL WITH: Studies have shown that kojic acid works well with and enhances the effects of glycolic acid and hydroquinone.

 

DON’T USE WITH: While it does have a synergetic effect when used with these other brightening/exfoliating ingredients, pairing it with these also increases the likelihood of experiencing excessive dryness or irritation. Proceed with caution and start using any products that contain kojic acid and other actives gradually, giving your skin some time to acclimate.

 

 

 

Benefits of Kojic Acid for Skin

Spot-fading and skin brightening is the name of the game for this ingredient, though it does have a few other standout qualities.

 

Inhibits the production of melanin in the skin: The pathway that leads to excess melanin or pigment (in other words, a dark spot) is complex, but at the heart of the matter is an enzyme known as tyrosinase. Kojic acid blocks tyrosinase, in turn inhibiting the production of excess pigment. This means it can help lighten existing sun spots and photodamage, fade the dark marks leftover from acne scarring or after a pimple, and even improve melasma.

 

Acts as an antioxidant: Kojic acid can help scavenge and counteract skin-damaging free radicals caused by exposure to things such as UV damage and pollution. This not only helps improve overall skin tone as well, but also makes it a good general anti-aging ingredient.

 

Has anti-inflammatory and anti-viral properties: Unlike many other acids, it also has these unique characteristics, though they’re secondary to the skin-lightening benefits.