Kojic acid, a natural compound derived from fungi, is a popular ingredient in many skincare products that aim to brighten skin tone. This powerful antioxidant is known for its ability to inhibit the formation of tyrosine, which is an amino acid that’s needed to produce melanin. This pigment gives colour to our skin, hair, and eyes. Therefore, Kojic acid can help reduce the appearance of dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and other discolourations on the skin, making it a popular ingredient in skincare products.
How it is made
Kojic acid is a natural compound derived from certain fungi types, including Aspergillus and Penicillium. These fungi produce kojic acid as a byproduct of their metabolic processes.
To extract kojic acid from these fungi, they are first cultured on a nutrient-rich substrate, such as rice, soybeans, or potatoes. The fungi can grow and produce kojic acid over several days to weeks.
Once the fungi have produced enough kojic acid, the culture is harvested, and the kojic acid is extracted. This is typically done using a chemical solvent, such as ethanol or methanol, which is used to dissolve the kojic acid and separate it from the other compounds in the culture.
The resulting liquid is then purified using techniques such as filtration, distillation, or chromatography to remove any impurities and isolate the pure kojic acid. The final product is a white, crystalline powder that is ready to be used in various skincare products.
It’s worth noting that while kojic acid is a natural compound, some skincare products may use a synthetic version of the ingredient that is produced in a laboratory. Synthetic kojic acid is chemically identical to the raw version and safe for skincare products.
Types
Kojic acid is added to various skincare products, including soaps, gels, creams, and serums. The most natural form of kojic acid would be the one that is derived from natural sources, such as mushrooms or rice.
Kojic acid bar is a popular choice for those looking for a natural product that can help reduce pigmentation on the skin and is typically made with a blend of natural ingredients such as coconut oil, glycerin, and kojic acid derived from fungi. It is considered a more natural option because it does not contain synthetic ingredients, such as harsh chemicals or fragrances. In gel form, kojic acid is typically lightweight and absorbed quickly into the skin, making it a good option for those with oily or acne-prone skin.
Benefits
In addition to the previously mentioned benefits, kojic acid also has antimicrobial properties that can help fight off several common types of bacterial strains and fungal infections in the skin. This makes it a useful ingredient in treating acne caused by bacteria as well as lightening scars from acne. Kojic acid is even added to some antifungal products to increase their effectiveness in treating fungal infections like yeast infections, candidiasis, and ringworm or athlete’s foot.
Skincare routine
If you’re looking to incorporate kojic acid into your skincare routine, here’s how to do it:
1. Start with a clean face: Before applying any skincare product, it’s important to cleanse your face thoroughly. Use a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and makeup from your skin. Doing so on a cleansed face would be best, even when using the bar version.
2. Apply kojic acid to your face and neck, avoiding the eye area.
3. Follow up with a moisturiser: After applying the serum, it’s essential to follow up with a moisturiser to keep your skin hydrated and prevent dryness. Look for a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturiser that won’t clog your pores.
4. Use sunscreen: Kojic acid can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so it’s essential to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day.
5. Be patient: It can take several weeks to see the full effects of kojic acid on your skin. Be patient and continue using the product as directed.
Note: Use as part of a PM routine
Possible Side Effects
While kojic acid is generally considered a safe ingredient for skincare, it can cause side effects in some people. These side effects include contact dermatitis, redness, itching, and dryness. In rare cases, kojic acid may cause an allergic reaction, resulting in swelling, hives, and difficulty breathing.
It’s common for kojic acid to cause contact dermatitis where the user has a sensitive skin type or the product has a higher than 1% concentration of kojic acid. To prevent these side effects, using kojic acid products as directed and starting with a low ingredient concentration is essential. It’s also a good idea to do a patch test before using a new product to check for adverse reactions.
If you experience side effects from using kojic acid, stop using the product immediately and consult a dermatologist. They can recommend alternative treatments or products that may be better suited for your skin type.
It is also worth noting that long-term use of kojic acid may increase skin’s susceptibility to burning; therefore, sunscreen use while using is also recommended.
Additional steps to reduce pigmentation
In addition to using kojic acid, there are other steps you can take to help reduce pigmentation on your skin. These include:
– Avoid sun exposure: Sun exposure can worsen pigmentation, so it’s essential to wear protective clothing and seek shade whenever possible.
– Using a gentle exfoliant: Exfoliating can help remove dead skin cells and promote cell turnover, which can help reduce the appearance of pigmentation.
– Eating a healthy diet: A diet rich in antioxidants, such as fruits and vegetables, can help support healthy skin and reduce inflammation.
Summary
Overall, kojic acid is a safe and effective ingredient for reducing pigmentation on the skin. You can achieve a brighter, more even complexion by correctly incorporating it into your skincare routine and other healthy habits.
