Our skin is so important to us that we want it to look its best every day. While we get older, we experience dark spots and hyperpigmentation from acne scars. If you have hyperpigmentation and want to lighten your skin, a key ingredient can help: kojic acid. Kojic acid is a skin-brightening agent that contains essential ingredients and antioxidants that can fade hyperpigmentation.
Dr. Christopher Chu, MD, FAAD, Board-certified Dermatologist & Board-certified Dermatopathologist, and co-founder of Pure Dermatology, tells ESSENCE about kojic acids and the benefits for the skin. “Kojic acid is a natural compound derived from fungi,” Chu tells ESSENCE. “It’s a very popular ingredient in cosmeceuticals primarily because of its skin lightening properties.”
Chu also explained that Kojic acid can work for all skin types, especially those who have pigmentary issues. “Kojic acid works by reversible inhibition of tyrosinase, which is the enzyme responsible for producing pigment,” Chu said. Though kojic acid is most famous for its ability to inhibit tyrosinase and lighten the skin, it does have other benefits as well. “Kojic acid also has a variety of benefits, including antimicrobial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties.”
While Kojic acid can inhibit tyrosinase and lighten your skin, they can work for all skin types. However, those with sensitive skin or skincare conditions like eczema or rosacea may experience irritation while using products that contain kojic acid.
Here are the best products that contain kojic acid that can help your skin.
01
Versed Weekend Glow Daily Brightening Facial Toner
Your skin can benefit from the brightening toner which contains a four-acid complex of kojic acid, alpha hydroxy acid, azelaic acid, and bearberry extract, all of which are rich in Vitamin C, ideal for enhancing your skin tone.
Available at amazon.com
02
Urban Skin Rx Even Tone Cleansing Bar
This multi-functional cleansing bar serves as a mask, exfoliator, and cleanser to purify your skin and enhance your complexion.
Available at urbanskinrx.com
03
Koji White Pure Kojic Acid Skin Brightening Soap
Looking for a soap that contains kojic acid? Check out the Kojic White soap two-pack that provides a multitasking cleanse to remove dirt and grease while also leaving your skin feeling moisturized. These soaps contain coconut oil and hyaluronic acid, which add shine to your skin as well.
Available at amazon.com
04
PCA SKIN Hydroquinone-Free Pigment Gel Dark Spot Corrector
This dark spot corrector has been dermatologist-tested and includes azelaic and kojic acid to help give your skin a clear complexion. What’s more, it’s suitable for all skin types and doesn’t contain hydroquinone, which can be harmful for sensitive skin.
Available at amazon.com
05
La Roche-Posay Glycolic B5 Dark Spot Corrector
This dark spot corrector uses key ingredients like kojic acid, glycolic acid, lipo-hydroxy acid, and tranexamic acid to effectively reduce the appearance of dark spots and discoloration.
Available at ulta.com
06
SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense
This serum contains tranexamic acid and niacinamide to treat skin pigmentation. It is also free of parabens, fragrances, silicones, gluten, and hydroquinone.
Available at skinceuticals.com
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