Kojic acid is a chemical obtained from various types of fungi and a by-product when certain foods ferment such as Japanese sake, soy sauce and rice wine. It is at times used in the food industry as a natural preservative. One of the key uses of this wonder acid is in health and beauty care products. Also, used for treating skin woes like sun damage, scars and age spots.
The science of how kojic acids work as a skin-lightening agent involves its effect on melanin production. Well, melanin is a natural pigment in the human body that gives the eyes, hair and skin their colour. An amino acid, tyrosine is required to help the production of melanin. Kojic acids function by impeding tyrosine production and decreased melanin secretion may have a skin-lightening effect. Koji acids improve skin tone, texture, and sensitivity and lessen uneven skin colour.
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Skin Healing Benefits Of Kojic Acid
Anti-Ageing Effect: Kojic acid naturally lightens the skin, which enhances the appearance of age spots and sun damage. The lessening of dark spots can have an anti-ageing effect on the skin.
Treats Melasma: Kojic acid may also be valuable in reducing melasma. It is a darkening of the skin due to pregnancy.
Fades Away Scars: Kojic acid is beneficial in diminishing the discolouration of scars. Though it does not enhance the thickness of scar tissue, it may lower pigmentation linked with certain types of scars.
Antifungal Benefits: It is believed to have antifungal traits, that are beneficial in averting and treating fungal infections like athlete’s foot and yeast infections.
Antibacterial Effects: Potent antibacterial actions of kojic acid lower the chance of developing certain types of bacterial skin infections and acne caused by bacteria.
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Kojic Acid Uses And Forms
Kojic acid is largely used as a topical cream to treat several cosmetic problems. It’s approved to be used in beauty products in concentrations of 1% or less and is often used as a skin-lightening agent.
Some of the cosmetic products where kojic acid is added include powders, serums, creams, cleansers, and soaps. The powder should be blended with water or lotion, follow the instructions given on the product. Soaps and cleansers are meant to be rinsed off immediately. While creams and serums are allowed to be absorbed into the skin.
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Face masks containing koji acid are designed to be used on occasions. Some creams and cleansers can be used often. But kojic acid overall has poor absorption rates beneath the surface of the skin.
Kojic acid is a sure-shot remedy for treating hyperpigmentation and any scarring from razor burn, ingrown hairs, or other hair-removal issues. Generously apply kojic acids to the affected regions, your skin returns to its natural tone instantly.
Directions For Use
Take a small amount of kojic acid into your palm, and smear on the clean and dry affected area evenly on the face, skin and neck. Massage it gently until it gets completely absorbed. Avoid contact with mouth, nose or eyes.
Side Effects And Risks
Kojic acid is safe to use in concentrations of 1 % for most people, however, a few may experience side effects from its use. Contact dermatitis is the common side effect of kojic acid that results in redness, irritation, itchiness, rashes, pain, and discomfort. It is most common in those with sensitive skin types or if they are using higher concentrations. Stop using it if you exhibit any allergic reactions. Also, long-term use may make your skin prone to sunburn and never use it on damaged skin.
