Kojic Acid for Skin: 5 Key Things to Know Before Adding It to Your Routine

Kojic acid is an underrated skincare ingredient that works wonders for skin, but doesn’t receive enough attention. While it is present in some skincare products, most don’t know enough about this ingredient, so we’ll explain everything you need to know about kojic acid. To determine whether you should introduce kojic acid to your skincare regimen intentionally, read on.

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It’s important to understand all ingredients you introduce to your skincare routine. Even though kojic acid may slowly become a buzzword, it’s not recommended to introduce it blindly to one’s routine.

Here are 7 important things you need to know before adding kojic acid to your skincare routine.

1. Kojic Acid Is Derived through Fermentation

Kojic acid is a natural ingredient derived from certain types of fungi and is also a by-product found during the fermentation of malting rice.

Fermentation of rice is carried out to make foods like sake (Japanese rice wine), soy sauce, and other products.

2. It Reduces Melanin Production

Broadly, kojic acid is known for its skin-lightening properties.

The key way kojic acid functions is by reducing melanin production. Melanin is the pigment that gives skin its colour. Kojic acid is thus a common ingredient in products targeted for dark spots and hyperpigmentation.

3. Kojic Acid Is Usually Found in Combination Products

The reason many don’t know of it too popularly is because it’s usually used in combination products, with other ingredients like vitamin C, glycolic acid, or niacinamide. It can be found in serums, toners or creams.

On its own, kojic acid is unstable and thus is mostly found in combination products.

4. Using Sunscreen Is a Must While Using Kojic Acid

Since kojic acid reduces melanin production, your skin becomes more sensitive to the sun. At this time, your skin may be more open to sun damage.

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Thus, wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily is crucial to avoid worsening pigmentation.

5. It Can Cause Irritation if Overused

Like any active ingredient, kojic acid can sometimes cause skin irritation of various forms – redness, itching, or dryness.

Skin usually takes some time to get accustomed to new products. It’s best to start slow (2 to 3 times a week).

Like all skincare products, it is recommended to patch test before applying it all over your face.

Kojic acid can be a game-changer for dark spots and uneven skin tone, especially for Indian skin, which is often prone to pigmentation. Have you tried using kojic acid? Tell us in the comments below.