Kojic acidis a product used to lightendark spotson the skin.
It is often marketed as a Japanese product made from fermented rice or fungi.
It comes in many forms like soap, lotions, and serums, and is also known for itsantimicrobialproperties.
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This article will discuss kojic acid’s uses and benefits.
It will also cover the potential downsides to the product.
The most common use is skin lightening for dark spots, called hyperpigmentation.
Is Kojic Acid Made With a Fungus?
Kojic acid products may describe the manufacturing process involving fungi.
While this is true the actual product contains the metabolite, or by-product, of fungi.
There should not be any mold or other concerning substances in the product.
Medical
There are many theoretical medical uses for kojic acid.
Cosmetic
Kojic acid is an ingredient incosmetic productsused to lighten areas of existing hyperpigmentation on the skin.
Kojic acid has preservative properties and is a shelf-life enhancer in cosmetic products.
It is typically used withalpha-hydroxy acidto lighten freckles and age spots.
Below is an explanation of what to expect before and after using kojic acid on theskin.
Before
People who havedark spotscalled hyperpigmentation may benefit from kojic acid.
Hyperpigmentation is very common and can happen to anyone.
It occurs from sun exposure that causes increased areas of melanin.
Hyperpigmentation can appear due to:
After
Kojic acid will lighten dark spots on the skin.
It’s important to use sun protection when using kojic acid.
This will help keep dark spots from forming or worsening and can help reduceirritationfrom the kojic acid.
Each brand and formulation will contain different strengths of kojic acid.
A 2013 study foundmelasmadecreased with a kojic acid preparation applied once per day at nighttime.
Time to Desired Effects
Skin will not lighten immediately with kojic acid.
People have reported improvement within a couple of weeks, but there is no research to support this timeline.
A 2022 article review reports that it takes approximately 12 weeks to see results.
Should Anyone Not Use Kojic Acid?
Kojic acid has many positive benefits for those looking to lighten dark spots on their skin.
But some downsides may prevent some people from using it.
People with sensitive skin can have side effects with kojic acid.
It is found as a lotion, serum, or soap.
American Academy of Dermatology Association.Practice safe sun.
2013;58(4):281. doi:10.4103/0019-5154.113940
