There are many types of skin care products , and the cosmetic industry has been in great demand in recent years. One of the most innovative and useful items to come out are those that contain kojic acid .

Today you will learn a little more about this acid and what are the benefits it has for your skin .

What is kojic acid?

Kojic acid is a substance obtained from koji mushrooms (Aspergillus oryzae) from Japan. In addition, it includes other ingredients such as rice wine and fermented soybeans. It is a product that for many years has been used in the Asian country to combat some problems and improve skin health.

This substance is very light in color and has bleaching properties , which makes it widely used to remove skin blemishes . However, this product has some other benefits that make it an extremely versatile product.

What uses and benefits does it have?

Kojic acid has a number of unique properties that will bring you a good amount of benefits. Among the most common uses and benefits that it can offer you are the following:

goodbye to stains

One of the main features of this product is its ability to remove skin blemishes . It achieves this thanks to the fact that it has the ability to inhibit the tyrosinase enzyme whose function is to regulate melanin. In this way, it will help you eliminate those unsightly spots on the skin such as:

• acne scars
• hyperpigmentation
• Stains in armpits, elbows, knees, thighs, and bikini area.

melasma

Melasma is a common skin condition that occurs due to a hormonal imbalance. It forms dark spots on the skin. Also, they can start during pregnancy. Kojic acid helps treat melasma by lightening those pigmented areas.

Get smoother skin

Another of the properties of kojic acid is to soften the skin. You can achieve this by using it in your soap presentation and accompanying it with a scrub.

Keratosis Pilaris

Keratosis pilaris, also called goosebumps, is a common skin condition in which the pores become clogged with keratin grains, making the skin feel rough. It is usually treated with kojic acid. Your skin will look smooth and fresh on any occasion.

Has antifungal properties

Another of the main benefits of kojic acid is that it works as an antifungal . This means that it has the ability to fight fungus and treat some fungal infections such as cloth, ringworm or athlete's foot.

Helps reduce acne

Kojic acid also helps you, thanks to its antibacterial effect , to reduce the effect of some bacteria and skin infections. This includes, of course, the much hated and unsightly acne.

Has antioxidant properties

This product is rich in antioxidants , which is great news as it slows down skin aging. It will help you reduce wrinkles and any other type of skin marks caused by age.

not photosensitive

Some products when applied and exposed to the sun can stain the skin. However, this does not happen with kojic acid , since thanks to its ability to eliminate skin blemishes you will not have to worry about it.

 

Does it have side effects?

Like any other product, kojic acid can present some adverse reaction. The main case of this is allergy to any of its components. Despite the fact that it is a product of natural origin and that its components are quite safe, you should pay attention if you notice any of the following symptoms.

Blisters, redness, or pain

Some people with sensitive skin have stated that after using this product they may have an allergic reaction. This is usually presented in the form of blisters, rashes, redness of the skin and pain to the touch in the affected area.

The continuous use of this product in people with very sensitive skin can cause severe dermatitis . That is why, if you notice any type of reaction, it is important that you immediately stop using it.

Skin more vulnerable to sun rays

This product inhibits and reduces the levels of melanin in the body, this is what favors the disappearance of spots on the skin . However, in some cases this can work against you and there have been cases in which the decrease in melanin makes the skin more vulnerable.

In this type of case, people who suffer from it will notice greater discomfort when exposing themselves to the sun . They may even be more prone to sunburn. If you feel burning when exposing yourself to the sun, it is advisable to stop using the product.

Irritation and dryness of the skin

In people who are allergic to the components of this product, dryness or redness may appear in the area . Being able to even cause peeling of the skin and the appearance of rashes.

This is a rare side effect that happens to a small number of people. However, it is something to watch out for.

Tips for using kojic acid soap.

Next, we will give you some tips that will help you use the product correctly.

Start integrating it into your skincare routine just once a day three times a week. Then switch to daily use as skin adjusts.

1. Apply to skin and leave on for 30-60 seconds.
2. Rinse with plenty of water.
3. Apply sunscreen in the morning.

Monitor the condition of your skin and adjust the frequency as needed. Once you see results, replace the soap with a mild soap such as aloe vera soap enriched with vitamin E.

• Buy a product that does not have this component in high doses , as this will reduce the chances of suffering any side effects.
• In some cases, applying this product can create dry skin. That is why it is recommended to use a moisturizer such as collagen facial cream for the face and natural moisturizer for hands and body .
• In the event that when using kojic acid you present some type of problem, it is recommended that you stop using it immediately.
• Do not abuse the product , some people tend to buy soaps and then also apply a cream with the product. This is not recommended, as it will increase the chances of a side effect appearing .

Tips for Sensitive Skin

For sensitive skin it is recommended to use the soap 2 to 3 times a week to ensure that the skin can tolerate the ingredient. Always apply a moisturizing face cream like collagen face cream to keep your skin hydrated.

Sun exposure

This product inhibits and reduces the levels of melanin in the body, this is what favors the disappearance of spots on the skin . However it is important to use it sparingly and not as a daily soap as prolonged use of kojic acid can make your skin more susceptible to sun damage. Apply sunscreen and/or wear protective clothing.

If you experience redness, rashes, irritation, or pain when using kojic acid, discontinue use immediately.

Tips for choosing a product with kojic acid.

Kojic acid comes in a myriad of forms, be it gel, cream, or soap. The truth is that this is a very versatile product and choosing one of these presentations is not always easy, since it must be aimed at the type of problem you have.

However, in most cases, people who resort to this product use it for the prevention or removal of skin blemishes . For these cases, our recommendation is that you choose the handmade kojic acid soap , since it offers very good benefits and is cheaper than other products.

Lightens spots, softens the skin and fights acne among others. With responsible use, kojic acid can be used as an excellent complementary treatment since it has a series of unique properties that will always provide you with a good amount of benefits. Your skin will look smooth and fresh on any occasion.

*These products and statements are not intended to treat, cure, or prevent any disease. They do not cure or replace medical treatments. Always consult your doctor before beginning any treatment.*