In this blog post, we will explore seven exceptional Kojic Acid products that can help you achieve a more even and radiant complexion.
Dark spots, also known as hyperpigmentation, can be frustrating and stubborn. They occur due to excessive sun exposure, hormonal changes, acne scars ( especially when picked), or in the form of age spots. There are numerous skincare ingredients available to combat this issue that tackle the pigment in different ways, one particularly effective option is Kojic Acid products.
Derived from fungi, Kojic Acid has gained popularity for its ability to lighten and brighten the skin. It has been a K beauty staple for years and for good reason.
How Kojic Acid Works For Hyperpigmentation
As a cosmetic pharmacist, when considering any ingredient my question is what is the mechanism by which it works in the human and let me tell you kojic acid has a great one.
Check out our complete guide on Kojic Acid and why we think anyone suffering with hyperpigmentation should make this skinvestment. Kojic Acid For Dark Spots: The Complete Guide
To summarise Kojic Acid works by reducing the activity of tyrosinase- this is an enzyme that produces melanin- and too much melanin leads to the darkening of the skin. So this little hero, Kojic acid, effectively stops melanin synthesis which leads to a gradual lightening of the skin.
How To Decide On a Kojic Acid Product
The best kojic acid products are the ones that use their skin lightening abilities but also target the hyperpigmentation from another angle. Where Kojic acid works by blocking the enzyme to stop any hyperpigmentation, combing it with ingredients such AHA’s ( Alpha Hydroxy Acids) like glycolic or lactic acid will exfoliate the top layer that has hyperpigmentation already formed.
Another option is salicylic acid as not only does this exfoliate it has great acne-fighting properties, meaning if your hyperpigmentation is due to acne that has left scars, it will prevent future breakouts.
Other ingredients that kojic acid is paired with kojic acid products include vitamin C, niacinamide, tranexamic acid, and azelaic acid. These all have amazing skin-brightening properties in different mechanisms and combing them will address and prevent hyperpigmentation.
1. SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense Skin Serum
As mentioned Kojic acid products usually contain multiple skin-brightening ingredients. The SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense Skin Serum is a great option for tackling hyperpigmentation in different ways as it contains a powerful mix of skin-lightening and brightening ingredients including tranexamic acid and niacinamide.
2. Versed Weekend Glow Brightening Solution
The Versed Weekend Glow Brightening Solution is a potent yet non-irritating exfoliator, it tackles hyperpigmentation if four way attack as it is a mix of kojic acid, lactic acid, glycolic acid, and azelaic.
3.PCA Skin Pigment Gel HQ Free
PCA Skin Pigment Gel HQ Free is a mix of kojic acid and azelaic acid with the exfoliating yet gentle properties of lactic acid. It also uses the skin-brightening properties of Glutathione to suppress melanin production to prevent new dark spots from forming.
4.Glytone Glytone TranEXamide Discoloration Treatment Serum
Glytone Glytone TranEXamide Discoloration Treatment Serum minimises the appearance of dark marks, acne scars, and sun damage. It combines a powerful mix of Tranexamic Acid, Kojic Acid, and Niacinamide to fight hyperpigmentation and keep it at bay.
5. Even Tone Super Glow Serum
The Even Tone Super Glow Serum is a potent formula containing double the concentration of kojic acid compared to a lot of other kojic acid products. Combing 2% Kojic acid, vitamin C, Azelaic acid, Niacinamide, and Arbutin as well as green tea extract the skin is for a serious radiance boost.
6. Dr. Dennis Gross Clinical Grade IPL Dark Spot Correcting Serum
Dr. Dennis Gross Clinical Grade IPL Dark Spot Correcting Serum is a great example of a multi-tasking kojic acid product. It combines the exfoliating properties of lactic acid, potent antioxidant properties of Vitamin C as well as a range of hyperpigmentation-fighting ingredients including arbutin, licorice extract, and azelaic acid.
7.Glycolic B5 Dark Spot Corrector
Glycolic B5 Dark Spot Corrector harnesses the power of glycolic acid, tranexamic acid, and of course, kojic acid to address hyperpigmentation from all angles. The combination reveals smoother brighter skin that is visibly more even.
So that sums up my top picks for kojic acid. Remember slow and steady is key and great skin takes patience. Incorporate new products graduuly and avoid starting multiple new products at once.
Another key tip to make sure that you are getting the most out of these products is to top up with SPF to avoid further sun damage and worsening of hyperpigmentation. For some great options check out BEST SUNSCREENS FOR SENSITIVE SKIN
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