Kojic Acid is a mild inhibitor of the melanin formation. It is derived from the Japanese common name Koji, a type of fungi in Japan. It is a product of the fermentation of malt rice for sake, the Japanese rice wine. Moreover, it is used to for skin lightening in cosmetics.
While hydroquinone works by inhibiting the tyrosinase’s activity, this acid lightens the skin by suppressing the activity of the tyrosinase. It does skin whitening safely and it is known globally for its effective whitening.
This ingredient is used only in limited applications because of its sensitivity. When used in cosmetology, just a slight exposure to sunlight and air will damage the acid. Therefore, it is best to preserve it in ampoules.
The Scientific and Committee on Commercial Products found this acid to be a non-carcinogenic and no-genotoxic element. Also, it does not have a bad effect on the reproductive system of the human being. It may have some threats to the human health but it is limited only to a 1% concentration.
During the testing of the Kojic acid on the skin, a side effect was found. It increases the level of the skin’s sensitivity which is not a good sign. This is because an increase in the skin’s sensitivity leads to allergic contact.
Though it is primarily used in cosmetology, it can be used also in:
* Medicine – it is use as an important material in antibiotic: antiphlogistic production, anodyne and cephamycin.
* In food preservation, it is added in meats to preserve the color. It is a good antioxidant and antiseptic.
* It functions as a color-stabilizer for cut-flowers. It retains the freshness of the flower. It also preserves the flower’s color.
* Pesticide- it is a pollution-free ingredient of some pesticides and insecticides.
Although Kojic acid is already used today in various applications, studies and researches are still on-going to expand further the knowledge about this safe and active element.
Visit us at our Meladerm website to read more on Kojic acid as an active ingredient of Meladerm.
categories: Kojic acid,skin lighteners,skin whiteners,skin care products,skin care