What is kojic acid?
Kojic acid is the active ingredient that many people look for in their cosmetics, but what makes it so powerful? Its main value is its high depigmenting power. If you want to know if you will love incorporating it into your beauty routine, keep reading!
What is kojic acid?
Some mushrooms of Japanese origin are responsible for this substance called kojic acid. Specifically, it is the Koji fungus, with the scientific name Aspergillus oryzae, that is responsible. But this fungus is not only used in cosmetics but also has other uses, such as the production of the popular sake.
Likewise, it is widely used in gastronomy to ferment food, since it improves its flavour and provides high-quality nutrients. Soy sauce, rice vinegar or miso are some of the foods in which it is included. It remains to say that it is benign and that it is also included in cosmetics due to its depigmenting action. It will help you look younger than ever thanks to all its properties and benefits. Also, to get the
Kojic acid is also used in mixed and fermented items such as other mushrooms, rice and soybeans. Its appearance at first glance is like a kind of beige crystalline powder.
What is kojic acid used for?
Kojic acid was discovered in Japan a few decades ago and has been used in gels, creams and other beauty products ever since. One of its most popular uses is to regulate the production of the enzyme tyrosinase.
This is responsible for regulating melanin and, therefore, can lighten the skin, unify the tone of the face and improve sun spots. On the other hand, it can be used to soften the skin when included in gels and soaps with an exfoliating effect. In addition, it has antioxidant properties, which could be useful for treating both wrinkles and other signs of age.
Benefits and contraindications of kojic acid
The best-known benefit of kojic acid is that it is depigmenting and offers extraordinary results in the treatment of hyperpigmentation. For this reason, it is found in many products such as lotions, ointments and creams. These are intended to treat, among other conditions:
Freckles (these are not conditions in themselves, but it also lightens them).
Stains from pregnancy, from the use of contraceptive pills, those of old age…
On the other hand, it can reduce the action of free radicals due to its high antioxidant power. In addition, it has antibacterial and antifungal properties and, currently, it is being investigated if it can be used to fight some types of cancer. Another of its benefits is that it does not stain the skin when exposed to it because it is not photosensitive. Instead, by reducing the production of melanin, those who use it lose their natural protection. As a consequence, the use of a good SPF for sun protection factor is still mandatory.
