Kojic acid cream

Kojic acid is a chemical produced from different types of fungi. It is also a by-product of fermented soy sauce and rice wine. Kojic acid is sometimes used in the food industry as a natural preservative. One of the main uses of kojic acid, however, is in some health and cosmetic products. In this article, we look at how kojic acid is used, what possible health benefits it might have, and what the potential risks and side effects are. Share on Pinterest Kojic acid is mainly used in health and beauty products. Kojic acid is sometimes used in health and beauty products to lighten the skin. It may be used to treat skin conditions, such as sun damage, scars, and age spots. The science behind how kojic acid works as a lightening agent involves its effect on melanin production. Melanin is a naturally occurring pigment in the body that gives the eyes, hair, and skin their color. An amino acid called tyrosine is needed to support the production of melanin. Kojic acid works by blocking tyrosine from forming, which then prevents melanin production. Decreased melanin production may have a lightening effect on the skin. Kojic acid is most commonly used in cosmetic products, such as creams, lotions, and serums. It is also used in some soaps. Many products with kojic acid are intended for use on the hands or face. Products containing kojic acid can also be used on other parts of the body, such as the legs and arms. The concentration of kojic acid in cosmetics is often between Certain pro...

What is Kojic Acid? Board-certified dermatologists Kojic Acid Benefits "Even with somewhat limited research conducted on kojic acid, this skincare ingredient has already yielded impressive results in terms of skin brightening, lightening, and reducing hyperpigmentation," says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michelle Henry, M.D., founder of How to Shop for Kojic Acid Formulation All three experts recommend leave-on kojic acid products, like face serums and creams such as Kojic Acid Concentration Henry and Murphy Rose agree that the best kojic acid concentration to shop for ranges from 1% to 4%. Mikailov adds there aren't a lot of reported side effects of kojic acid when used at a concentration of 1% or less. "When concentrations are over 1%, contact dermatitis — irritation, rashes, inflamed skin, [and] itchiness — is a potential side effect. With long-term use, sensitive skin may be more at risk of getting sunburns," he says. What does this mean for you? We suggest only using the kojic acid products in this guide, which all contain 1% or less of the ingredient. 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. "If your skin responds positively, you can try to use kojic acid in your everyday skincare routine," she says. Also, don't skimp on Ready for the brightest, most even-toned skin...

Most of us are already using acids in our current skincare routines to help l oved by dermatologists for its ability to brighten your skin tone and fade hyperpigmentation. To get the full low-down on kojic acid, I chatted with dermatologists Shereene Idriss, MD, and Caroline Robinson, MD, to learn exactly what kojic acid does for skin, how you should use the ingredient, and more. play icon The triangle icon that indicates to play What is kojic acid? Kojic acid is a powerful kojic acid stops abnormal or excessive pigment production in its tracks while fading existing discoloration. “It also is also said to have antioxidant effects as well, which help our skin cells repair themselves from the harmful effects of UV rays, pollution, and oxidative stress,” adds Dr. Robinson. What does kojic acid do for your skin? “The main benefit of kojic acid is that it can help even out your skin tone and address unwanted hyperpigmentation,” Dr. Idriss says. It does this by blocking tyrosine—an essential enzyme in the biosynthesis of pigment, or, melanin, in the skin. Kojic acid also has antimicrobial properties, which can be help reduce the intensity of breakouts and any resulting post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Lastly, as an antioxidant, kojic acid can help skin cells reverse the harmful effects of UV rays, pollution, and oxidative stress. Credit: Courtesy Image Does kojic acid help dark spots? Yes, kojic acid will help fade dark spots and all types of discoloration, including Does ko...

Kojic acid is made from several different types of fungi. It’s also a byproduct when certain foods ferment, including Japanese sake, soy sauce, and rice wine. Kojic acid inhibits and prevents the formation of tyrosine, which is an amino acid that’s needed to produce melanin. Melanin is the pigment that affects hair, skin, and eye color. Because it inhibits the production of melanin, kojic acid can have a lightening effect. Kojic acid is often used topically to treat a number of different cosmetic conditions. It’s been approved for use in cosmetic products in concentrations of Kojic acid can be found in a number of different types of cosmetic products, including powders, serums, creams, cleansers, and soaps. Powders should be mixed with water or lotion, depending on the product instructions. Some products, like soaps and cleansers, are meant to be washed off immediately. Others, like creams and serums, are designed to be left on and absorbed into the skin. (However, kojic acid overall has relatively poor absorption rates below the surface of the skin.) Some products — like face masks — are designed to be used only on occasion. Creams and cleansers may be used daily. 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. The The Food and Drug Administration monitors quality and safety of cosmetics, so be sure to buy products from a reputable company in the United States. Contact dermatitis is most ...

Kojic acid, a compound derived from a mushroom-like fungi during fermentation, is often blended into skin care products to help target melasma, age spots, sun spots, acne scars and other uneven coloring in the complexions of men and women of all ages and races. Though kojic acid functions primarily as a skin-lightening agent, it's also known to prevent future hyperpigmentation from occurring by limiting ongoing production of melanin. Dermstore offers a variety of kojic acid products from top brands like SkinCeuticals, Glytone and SkinMedica. These serums, gels, moisturizers and spot treatments blend kojic acid with antioxidants and vitamins A, C and E to fight free radical and sun damage, further enhancing the health and glow of your complexion.

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 spotlight—particularly if your goal is a brighter, more even complexion. We're talking about kojic acid, a naturally-derived ingredient. It comes from mushrooms (more on that in a minute) and is excellent at fading hyperpigmentation and discoloration aka dark spots. It works well both on its own and when paired with other lightening ingredients, not to mention also acts as an antioxidant. Ahead, experts explain why and how kojic acid works, who should give it a whirl, and which products to try. 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. How Often To 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 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. Gly...