Skin Whitening with Kojic Acid

Skin whitening is a common practice in Pakistan and much of Asia and Africa. In recent years it has largely been deplored but it was problematic in any case. The use of substandard skin whitening products (or products flouting regulations regarding permissible levels of certain ingredients) is well documented to be the cause of medical issues.

Often, the cheapest skin whitening products contain mercury, a toxic ingredient, that is prohibited for use in cosmetics in most parts of the world (including Pakistan).

This being the case, people that still wish to pursue skin whitening often look for safer herbal or organic alternatives instead. Reducing sun exposure with the help of sunblocks or sunscreens is the most straightforward way to lighten skin tone of course but further skin lightening can be achieved using active ingredients that inhibit melanin production.

Originally isolated from a mold (Aspergillus oryzae) that is used for fermentation in various food products in East Asia - Kojic Acid was found to be just one such inhibitor ingredient. By inhibiting production of melanin (the pigment that darkens skin color), it assists in skin whitening as well as reduction of dark spots, melanin and hyperpigmentation.

The astute reader will have already understood that simply due to how it fuctions, this means they will be required to regularly use Kojic Acid products to benefit from its effects.

Kojic acid as a skin brightening ingredient is often used in the form of soap, serums and creams with the key point being that regular use over an extended period is required before its effects are visible. It can help lighten scars, melasma, age spots as well as lighten skin color in general.

As Kojic acid is known to have anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties as well, it can also prevent certain bacterial or fungal infections.

But as with everything - there are potential side effects. The most straightforward and immediate is skin dryness as well as contact dermatitis. With regards to dryness you can try combining it with other products to make up for lost hydration but for contact dermatitis or redness, itching, rashes, irritation or pain it is best to discontinue use immediately and consulting with a skin specialist.

While soaps are a great way for general skin lightening, the use of Kojic acid in serums and creams is often meant for targeted use and it's effects are often enhanced whether in soap, serum or cream for with the addition of other whitening or brightening ingredients such as vitamin C, azelaic acid or liquorice extract.

Keep in mind as well that products that inhibit melanin production will have a limit, they can not lighten your skin beyond its natural color. And most importantly that its effects are not permanent - it can lighten hyperpigmentation, dark spots and skin tone in general but only while use is maintained.