Kojic Acid: Benefits, Usage And More…
Skin problems are very frequent, affecting the majority of the population worldwide, especially those who
have sensitive skin and are prone to dark spots and more commonly hyperpigmentation. There are a
number of other agents like glycolic acid and salicylic acid etc. but here another name that comes to
mind when talking about brighter skin is kojic acid.
Kojic Acid is a naturally occurring metabolite that basically originated from a type of fungus(mushroom) and also by fermentation of certain food like soy and rice etc. It is under the spotlight of skin remedies for almost a decade and has an excellent anti-oxidant property which serves as a remedy for fading dark spots and acts as a skin-lightening agent.
It primarily acts as an antioxidant agent which results in the fading of skin dark spots. These
antioxidant properties also serve as an antiaging therapy for the skin.
Kojic Acid is highlighted as a skin brightener. It is unique in its nature and provides multiple benefits
for skin-related conditions and for that purpose it has been used in the cosmeceutical industry widely.
Why Should I Use Kojic Acid?
The science of the effect of kojic acid basically depends on melanin production. Melanin is a
pigment present in our bodies that give us the color of our eyes, hair, and skin that is unique for everyone. In short the quantity of melanin defines how darker your skin would be.
What this acid does is that it blocks the enzyme tyrosinase which is responsible for the production of melanin and causes a decline in melanin production which in turn has a lightening effect on the skin.
So if you are someone who is interested in lightening your skin tone or getting rid of hyperpigmentation, then kojic acid is your solution.
7 Benefits Of Kojic Acid:
Here are some benefits of using kojic acid formulations other than skin lightening.
1- Antioxidant:
Kojic acid serves as a protective agent from the free radicals that damage your skin that is formed by UV rays or other conditions such as environmental pollution. It also provides anti-aging activity.
2- Reduces Hyperpigmentation:
Kojic acid is included among the main stand treatment for hyperpigmentation due to its effect on reducing the melanin pigment. Hence, it is beneficial for treating hyperpigmentation. It improves the skin tone and also lightens any acne scars or dark spots on the skin.
3- Cure For Melasma:
It is also used for the treatment of Melasma. A certain type of hyperpigmentation disorder that mostly occurs during pregnancy.
4- Reduces Skin Inflammation:
Kojic Acid also contributes medicinally as it has unique properties like antibacterial activity and
also acts as an anti-inflammatory agent. These properties can help our skin to heal acne and blemishes.
5- Anti-Microbial:
Kojic acid is also anti-microbial to a certain extent. It can help lower bacterial colonization. This means that it can stop bacteria from building up on our skin. This can help to heal acne and any other skin problems like skin fungus.
6- UV Protection:
Kojic acid can reduce the damage to the skin, done by ultraviolet radiation exposure. It has UV protective properties but it cannot be used as a sunscreen itself. You need a sunscreen separately. Read more about the importance of sun protection here–>> You Will Never Skip Sunscreen After Reading This
7- Anti-Aging:
Anything that can help improve the signs of aging skin is called anti-aging. All the properties discussed above prove that kojic acid can also be used as an anti-aging agent.
How To Use Kojic Acid:
Don’t use kojic acid alone as it can cause skin irritation in some people. However, there are pre-made certain commercial preparations containing kojic acid in specific proportions like soaps, lotions, creams, and serums.
Always make sure to patch test first. Preferably a patch test is done on the skin below your ears so that if irritation occurs it will not show up on your face.
Once you know that kojic acid suits your skin type, you can start applying it.
Kojic Acid Formulations:
Initially, you can use the kojic acid regimen by applying it to your hands and face once or twice a week. The reason for that is you need to be sure about how much your skin can easily tolerate although you don’t need to worry that much once it’s easily tolerated it can be used on a daily basis.
But if your kojic acid formulation has glycolic acid in it then it is better to be used twice a week only as it can over-exfoliate your skin.
Kojic Acid Soaps:
Kojic acid soaps can be used by applying on to wet skin and leaving it on for about a minute. Then wash it off and apply a moisturizer as it can be very drying.
Other Key Points:
According to recent studies kojic acid in concentrations of 1%-4% has been shown to be very effective
when in combination with vitamin C, glycolic acid, and hydroquinone.
Raw kojic acid is also available but you have to dilute it by making mixtures through incorporating in
your daily use moisturizers and creams.
Despite its various advantages and multiple uses keep in mind to use kojic acid formulations for a brief period of time.
When Will I See The Results?
The effect of kojic acid varies widely among populations, some people might see result within days or some may take a few weeks. Although it may take longer in some conditions but generally the results are seen in a few weeks after applying.
Be careful with the long-term use of kojic acid. It is not recommended for this acid to be used for the long term because it may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight and you can get prone to sunburn. It is because it decreases melanin from our skin which actually protects the skin from the UV rays of the sun. However, it is easy to reduce this likelihood by simply applying sunscreens when using kojic acid formulations.
Never use other skin brightening or other skin beautifying agents while using kojic acid as it may
increase the chances of making your skin sensitive, dry, and itchy. It’s always considered to take a precaution while using other products with kojic acid. It is best to keep it simple and not use anything else with kojic acid formulation, except for your daily moisturizers.
To Conclude: (You Need To Know This)
- Kojic acid is highly beneficial for the treatment of dark spots and hyperpigmentation. It possesses natural skin whitening activity which makes it among the top choices as a skin brightening agent.
- Never forget to use sunscreens whenever you’re using formulations containing kojic acid, to protect your skin from sunburns.
- Keep in mind that it takes some time for the results to be visible. Usually after a period of a few weeks.
- Kojic acid should not be used for longer periods of time as it increases skin irritation and makes your skin prone to get sunburns. People who cannot tolerate or are allergic to kojic acid should avoid its use completely.
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