Kojic acid——exclusive inhibitor of melanin

Kojic acid is mainly used for skin whitening. Many consumers use beauty products containing kojic acid to lighten freckles and other dark spots on the skin. Although it is mainly used for cosmetic purposes, kojic acid is also used to maintain food color and kill certain bacteria. Used on the skin can reduce the amount of melanin secretion.

In 1989, Japanese scientists first discovered kojic acid in mushrooms. This acid can also be found in the residue of fermented rice wine. In addition, scientists have also found that natural foods such as soybeans and rice also contain this ingredient.

Beauty products such as soaps, lotions and ointments contain kojic acid. People apply these products to facial skin in hopes of lightening the complexion. It helps reduce chloasma, freckles, sun spots and other inconspicuous pigmentation. Some toothpastes also use kojic acid as a whitening ingredient. When kojic acid is used, the skin feels slightly irritated. In addition, it should be noted that the skin area where the skin whitening lotion or ointment is applied is more susceptible to sunburn.

The use of kojic acid is known to have other health benefits. Kojic acid has antioxidant and antibacterial properties, so it helps to preserve food properly, and it helps keep food fresh for a long time. Some dermatologists also recommend using kojic acid ointment to treat acne, because it can effectively kill the bacteria that cause acne.

Most products containing kojic acid have only a small amount of acid. However, large-scale or long-term use of kojic acid should cause attention, because animal experiments have found that this whitening product is potentially carcinogenic. However, there is no case report of human cancer caused by the use of such products.

As with any product on the market, kojic acid should be used with caution on the skin. Most whitening products can bring good results under limited use, but long-term use may cause skin allergic reactions. Dermatologists advise consumers to change products in time when they find skin irritation or excessive whitening.