Are you a skincare enthusiast? Well, you must have heard about a magical skincare product called kojic acid cream, and now you may be thinking, “Is kojic acid cream safe to use?” Don’t worry, we’re here to help.
Let’s learn about the ins and outs of kojic acid cream –what it is used for, why it's popular, and whether it’s safe to use.
What is Kojic Acid Cream?
Kojic acid is a naturally occurring substance that is made from fermented rice, soy sauce, sake, and several kinds of fungi. Tyrosinase, an enzyme essential to the synthesis of melanin, is inhibited by kojic acid, which permeates the skin. It successfully minimizes the appearance of dark patches, discoloration spots, tanning, and uneven skin tone by controlling and delaying the synthesis of melanin. Just after using kojic acid cream for a few weeks, your skin will appear clearer, brighter, and smoother.
Benefits of Kojic Acid Cream
Here are some benefits of using kojic acid cream.
Brightens the Skin
Kojic acid cream inhibits the synthesis of melanin, the pigment that causes dark spots, uneven skin tone, and hyperpigmentation. As a result, it can minimize sunspots, age spots, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (the scars left by acne).
Exfoliates the Skin
As a gentle exfoliator, kojic acid cream aids in the removal of dead skin cells and encourages the growth of new ones. In addition to exposing more radiant, youthful skin beneath, it also refines and smoothens your skin.
Hides Aging Signs
Kojic acid cream contains antioxidant qualities that help lessen the obvious indications of aging in addition to brightening. Free radicals, the cause of early wrinkles and drooping skin, are neutralized by antioxidants. As a result, your skin will be better protected against these aging factors by using kojic acid cream.
Fades Acne Scars
It can be difficult to get rid of post-acne marks, particularly if you have hyperpigmented skin. Because of its ability to suppress melanin, kojic acid cream is useful in lessening the visibility of red markings and acne scars.
How to Use Kojic Acid Cream?
Patch test and incorporate it slowly: It is generally a good idea to start slowly before jumping in. To see how your skin responds, start by applying kojic acid cream a few times per week. To check for any possible irritation, remember to patch test a tiny area.
Always wear sunscreen: You should always use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher during the day because kojic acid can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. This shields your skin from UV rays and helps stop more pigmentation.
Don’t combine harsh ingredients: Retinol, vitamin C, and strong exfoliants are examples of harsh active ingredients that should not be combined with kojic acid cream since they can irritate skin and lessen the serum's effectiveness. To let the kojic acid cream do its magic, stick to mild, complementary goods.
Put it on dry skin: Apply kojic acid cream on dry, clean skin for optimal absorption. This guarantees that the serum may target pigmentation and penetrate completely, yielding the maximum possible advantages.
Ideal Use of Kojic Acid Cream for Different Skin Types
As previously established, kojic acid is a scientifically supported substance that has been shown to brighten, smooth, and protect skin. However, the secret to getting results is choosing the right kojic acid cream for your skin type.
Sensitive and Dry Skin
Invest in a cream that mixes ceramides or hyaluronic acid with kojic acid for a dual benefit of moisturizing and brightening. By doing this, you can prevent dryness and irritation of your skin.
Combination Skin
To balance any oiliness in the T-zone and to hydrate and brighten the rest of your face, use a cream that contains kojic acid, vitamin C, or alpha arbutin.
Oily Skin
Look for a cream with niacinamide or salicylic acid to regulate excess oil production, clear pores, and diminish post-acne scars if you have oily skin.
Mature Skin
Kojic acid can help increase collagen, strengthen the skin barrier, lessen wrinkles, and brighten the skin when combined with peptides and other antioxidants.
Potential Side Effects of Kojic Acid Cream
Like most ingredients, kojic acid may not be suitable for everyone. Keep an eye out for the following negative effects:
- It may increase your skin's sensitivity to the sun, raising your risk of sunburn and other damage from the sun.
- It may cause itching, redness, or irritation if your skin is reactive, particularly if you use greater quantities.
- Another frequent side effect of kojic acid is contact dermatitis, which can show up as burning, swelling, soreness, irritation, or rashes.
- However, avoid the risk of these side effects by doing a patch test. Before using the product on your face, dab a tiny bit onto your inner arm or jawline. If your skin doesn’t reach within 24 hours, you can incorporate it into your regular routine.