Kojic acid is one of the magical remedies that help you in overcoming dark spots on the skin. It also makes your skin look brighter, which is a great ingredient found in many skin-lightening creams.
Kojic acid is a substance that is extracted from different types of fungi, especially strains of Aspergillus. Kojic acid was first discovered in 1970 and was extracted from a strain of Aspergillus called Aspergillus oryzae. Which grows on steamed rice. Kojic acid is widely used in cosmetics and skin care as a skin whitening and lightening agent.
How does kojic acid work?
Kojic acid is an essential ingredient in many skin-lightening creams, gels and serums. You will see many types of soaps, cleansers, serums, creams, and cosmetics that contain different concentrations of kojic acid. And while you will wash your face of soap and detergents immediately after use. You can leave serums, creams and other cosmetics overnight for better absorption.
Kojic acid works to lighten the skin by blocking the production of melanin, the pigment that colors your skin, eyes and hair. The overproduction of melanin often leads to dark spots and uneven skin tone. The body produces melanin with the help of an amino acid called tyrosine, so kojic acid is effective because it blocks the function of tyrosine, which in turn inhibits melanin production.
What are the benefits of using kojic acid?
One of the studies conducted on 6 women who passed the menopause age indicated that the skin absorption of kojic acid did not cause any harmful effects to the skin or the body, after their blood test showed the presence of an amount of kojic acid in the blood plasma. Kojic acid, which is found in many skin care products, offers some benefits for the skin, including:
1- It reduces hyperpigmentation
Excessive exposure to the sun can lead to hyperpigmentation, dark spots and freckles. The use of kojic acid products can help lighten spots and get rid of them, giving you clear and flawless skin. In addition, it helps in whitening the skin without causing any irritation.
2- It has anti-aging effect
Creams and products containing kojic acid do not only reflect sunlight. It also reduces the signs of wrinkles and premature aging that appear on the skin. Kojic acid blocks the action of the enzyme tyrosinase, which is responsible for the production of melanin. Which helps in the appearance of signs of wrinkles and aging on the skin.
It has anti-bacterial properties
Although the antibacterial properties of kojic acid are not strong, it is highly effective against many strains of bacteria and can inhibit their growth even when used in diluted concentrations.
4- It has anti-fungal properties
Kojic acid has antifungal properties as well, and has been found to have a strong effect on certain strains of fungi, and is highly beneficial in treating yeast infections such as athlete’s foot or candidiasis. Regular use of kojic acid helps prevent bacterial and fungal skin infections.
Are there side effects of kojic acid?
Although it is completely safe to use, there are some people who may experience mild side effects of kojic acid. Its most common side effects include:
May cause contact dermatitis
People with sensitive skin may be at risk of contact dermatitis when using kojic acid. According to some studies, there is a greater chance of people with sensitive skin getting this dermatitis when using creams that contain kojic acid.
It may make your skin sensitive to sunlight
It inhibits the production of melanin, which is the pigment that is also responsible for protecting your skin from olfactory burns and other negative side effects on the skin. When melanin production is affected, your skin becomes more susceptible to sunburn with prolonged exposure.
To avoid any side effects, it is always best to consult a dermatologist before using kojic acid on your skin.
Things to consider before using kojic acid
There are certain things that you should keep in mind before using it on your skin, which are:
Useful for people who suffer from skin spots, hyperpigmentation, scars and annoying dark spots that appear on the skin. People with any skin problem should avoid the use of kojic acid. People who suffer from allergies should also consult a doctor first before starting to use it on your skin. When using one of its products on your skin, always adhere to the usage instructions that are printed on the packaging from the manufacturer. If your doctor prescribes any kojic acid product for you, first ask about the directions for use and follow them carefully. If you notice any rashes or changes in your skin after using kojic acid products. Do not ignore it and stop using it immediately and consult your doctor. Never use it on cracked skin. The result may vary from person to person, depending on the type of skin and the severity of the case. Some may get results within a few weeks, while others may take months to show good results. Just try to use kojic acid for a short time until you treat the pigmentation or get the result you want and then stop using it.
Kojic acid is one of the wonderful substances that you can rely on to get rid of the problem of hyperpigmentation and the appearance of dark spots on the skin. Use products containing kojic acid, after consulting a dermatologist.
