Cosmetics is a fashion and trend industry, and new ingredients emerge every year. Many very popular ingredients are slowly forgotten by people over time. But for some ingredients, although the trend has faded, they are still standing and being used, and these ingredients must have their unique effects. Among the many classic ingredients, kojic acid is one of them. Kojic acid is a small molecule component with a molecular formula of C6H6O4, Is kojic acid safe for skin? Of course, and it has a wide range of roles in our daily life, as follows,
In the medical field, kojic acid is used as a component of antibiotics to treat toothaches and headaches.
In the food field, kojic acid is often used as a food additive to keep food delicious.
In the agricultural field, it is always found in fertilizers and pesticides when planting.
In the field of beauty and skincare, kojic acid can be used as a treatment for hyperpigmentation, acne, and freckles and as a whitening product.
How kojic acid works as a skincare product?
The darkening of the skin and freckles are due to the continuous production of melanin in the body. The catalyst for the production of melanin is a substance called tyrosinase. If we want to whiten from the source, we must start by blocking the production of this substance. . And kojic acid can just grab copper ions with tyrosinase and have a chemical reaction with it, thereby inhibiting the production of melanin in the body. It can be said that kojic acid is the most effective ingredient for skin whitening besides hydroquinone.
Kojic acid side effects
Studies have shown that kojic acid is safe in every area of use as long as it is not used in excess.
Precautions for using kojic acid in skincare products
The concentration of kojic acid must not be too high. It is most suitable at 1% to 2%. If the concentration of kojic acid exceeds the appropriate concentration, it will irritate the skin, form vitiligo, and feel irritating. At the same time, keep in mind that kojic acid cannot be used during the day or under acidic conditions. Kojic acid will lose its original activity when exposed to high-temperature light or an acidic environment, and thus cannot exert its effect.
The preservation and collocation of kojic acid
* For daily use, it can be placed in a dark, low-temperature environment. If not used for a long time, it is recommended to store it in a refrigerator to ensure the activity of kojic acid.
* Can be used together with products containing VC, azelaic acid and other ingredients to increase the whitening effect. (Remember that the VC concentration should not be too high)
* It can be matched with products containing SOC, vitamin E and other antioxidant ingredients, which can better maintain its activity and exert its effect.
