© 2004-2020 Healthline Media UK Ltd, Brighton, UK, a Red Ventures Company. Yet the usually quick to pull the recall trigger FDA still permits hydroquinone to be sold here– both in over the counter formulations and in prescription only preparations. Note that kojic acid in skin whitening products is safe since the concentration is low. … Melanin helps protect the skin from sun damage due to UV rays. Find out about the causes and…, White spots can appear on the skin when protein and dead cells become trapped under the surface, or when there is a loss of pigmentation. Also, the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel reviews safety. This is just a short list of some of the major benefits of kojic acid. Cosmetic products are not required by law to be approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) before being sold. People should not use kojic acid on skin that is already red or irritated. Raw kojic acid is available, but it is not recommended for skin use. And they might irritate your skin. In this article, we look at how kojic acid is used, what possible health benefits it might have, and what the potential risks and side effects are. Any medical information published on this website is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional, United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It is also used in some soaps. EWG rates the overall hazard of kolic acid as moderate (source). Some products, such as soaps, are applied and washed off. Let’s see what the studies show and learn about the risks of using kojic acid products. But sometimes our skin produces excess melanin in some areas … Products containing kojic acid may only be recommended to be used for a brief time. All legal mentions », Optiderma.com uses Google AdSense and affiliate link programs to remunerate its contributors. Look for creams that contain tranexamic acid, niacinamide, or kojic acid. Kojic acid, a product derived from several species of fungi, is known to limit melanin production -- the substance that gives skin its color. I bought a bar of kojic acid because I heard it helps with dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Read more ». Did you find this content useful? According to the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Assessments, it is determined safe for use in cosmetics, subject to concentration or use limitations. It may be used to treat skin conditions, such as sun damage, scars, and age spots. Quinoa salad recipe with avocado and almonds. But that it is not likely to be a human carcinogen. It’s a normal reaction to sun exposure. Using kojic acid may make someone more likely to develop a sunburn. But the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) adds that kojic acid is unsafe for use on injured or damaged skin. Large amounts of kojic acid cream may cause … The benefits of using products containing kojic acid may include the following: Before using products containing kojic acid, it is important to make sure they are safe. This is why the Kojic Acid can make the area of skin whiter by preventing the synthesis of melanin. You can buy kojic acid soap, as it is safe for your skin. It is also a by-product of fermented soy sauce and rice wine. According to the EWG, the cosmetics industry has not formed a panel to assess kojic acid’s safety in humans, and that further research is needed. Hydroquinone is a chemical that bleaches the skin. In skin care, kojic acid is used as a skin-lightening agent. A person can apply these products directly to the skin. Melanin is what determines the colour pigmentation of the skin. ... arbutin and Kojic acid. Kojic Acid: It is one of the most important bleaching agents, which can easily inhibit the production of Melanin in our body. Salicylic acid dries out the skin, and this can cause … The science behind how kojic acid works as a lightening agent involves its effect on melanin production. Lines, wrinkles, and dark spots are all telltale signs of aging. The concentration of kojic acid in creams, serums, and soaps may vary by manufacturer. Kojic acid is a natural substance, but does it mean it is safe to use? It sometimes takes only a few weeks to see sufficient results. If symptoms do not clear up in a few days, it is best to see a doctor. It’s also been found to have anti-cancer effects, so there are no … (It won’t cause cancer). It should also not be used on broken skin. It is unlikely that levels would become high enough to cause cancer in humans. It sometimes takes only a few weeks to see sufficient results. Kojic Acid has been shown to be quite effective at lightening skin. Last medically reviewed on October 3, 2017, Laughter lines are a common sign of ageing. Kojic Acid acts as a tyrosinase enzyme inhibitor that reduces the skin’s ability to produce and synthesize melanin. Because of its ability to really penetrate the layers of your … What do scientific committees say about it? Kojic Acid Good news On the plus side, the SCCP found that kojic acid is not genotoxic or carcinogenic. Kojic acid is believed to be cancerous when used in large doses. Are kojic acid soaps effective for skin lightening? Kojic acid is a chemical produced from different types of fungi. It is often found in scar therapies thanks to its ability to lighten skin, including dark scars and other dark spots. Contact dermatitis can cause a rash, itching, and dry patches of skin. Kojic acid is sometimes used in health and beauty products to lighten the skin. Analysis of patient data reveals most common complications of COVID-19, Winter holidays away from the motherland: Effects on migrants' mental health, How gut microbes contribute to good sleep, In Conversation: Volunteering for a COVID-19 vaccine trial, How to get rid of laugh lines with exercises. Excess melanin comes to the surface and peels off in a few days. A concentration of 1 to 2 percent is recommended to reduce the chance of skin irritation. Kojic acid is a chemical derived from mushrooms, and can also be created during the sake brewing process from fermented rice. Cautious: Due to the potentially irritating effects of kojic acid as a lightening agent, please be sure to talk to your dermatologist before using these kinds of products. Scientific Committee on Consumer Products SCCP OPINION ON Kojic acid The SCCP adopted this opinion at its 17 th plenary of 30 September 2008 World Health Organization, International Agency for Research on Cancer … Melanin is a naturally occurring pigment in the body that gives the eyes, hair, and skin their color. Reportedly, studies found that kojic acid is not a cancer causing agent – unlike hydroquinone (source). Take a look at the graphic below: After numerous studies people have stated that their skin had become highly sensitive after using kojic acid for extended periods of time. Often they point out that hydroquinone can cause cancer and was banned in Europe. The Scientific Committee on Consumer Products (the European regulatory body) has conducted extensive studies of kojic acid products. Reportedly, studies found that kojic acid is not a cancer causing agent – unlike hydroquinone (source). However, this link was weak since kojic acid … It is also important to make sure the product contains the concentration of kojic acid recommended by a dermatologist. Here's an inspirational quote that will make you think! Some believe that this may make kojic acid a carcinogen; studies show that it causes cancer in mouse thyroid glands. Kojic acid is sometimes used in the food industry as a natural preservative. Melanin is the pigment that affects hair, skin, and eye color. Kojic acid is a by-product in the fermentation process of … What's healing for you? Optiderma.com is not responsible for content written by contributing authors and assumes no responsibility for the use or misuse of this material. However, this link was weak since kojic acid is slowly absorbed into the circulation. Is kojic acid safe? Kojic acid can lead to contact dermatitis in some people, especially those with sensitive skin. A dermatologist can also provide recommendations on specific products, including the frequency of use and the concentration strength. In these individuals, more than 1% of kojic acid could cause severe hypersensitive side effects [4, 5]. While some people attempt treatments and procedures, there are natural ways to keep laughter lines at bay…, Vitiligo is a long-term skin problem that produces white patches of depigmentation on certain sections of skin. When our skin is exposed to the sun, it produces melanin to protect itself from UV rays. Could telomere shortening protect against cancer? Another study shows that while some animal data suggested tumor promotion and weak carcinogenicity, kojic acid is slowly absorbed into the circulation from human skin and likely would not reach the threshold at which these effects were seen (source). Ochronosis is a … These include a burning or stinging sensation directly on the skin where the salicylic acid was applied. When choosing products, people should be sure to follow their directions for use. Are you thinking of buying kojic acid products to lighten your skin? Can It Make Your Skin Darker/Cause Ochronosis? The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel also reported that dermal sensitization and skin lightening, would not be seen at use concentrations below 1% in folic acid products; therefore, this ingredient is safe for use in cosmetic products up to that level. Please consult a practitioner (such as Naturopath, Homeopath, Doctor of Chinese Medicine, Dermatologist, ...) to follow the most appropriate treatment to heal your skin. Would it help someone you know? This product does not contain any chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or … Risk of highly sensitive skin after using kojic acid products, Excessive use of kojic acid products can result in sun damage. In severe cases, pain and blisters can develop. Kojic acid works by blocking tyrosine from forming, which then prevents melanin production. Cosmetic products are not regulated the same way medicines and foods are. Rodent studies involving VERY HIGH DOSES of hydroquinone administered by feeding tube showed the potential to cause cancer, according to the FDA. MNT is the registered trade mark of Healthline Media. Watch this video with Dr. Ellen Marmur and Dr. Oz who explain how using soaps and creams containing kojic acid can help you reduce the appearance of brown spots on your skin. I was both confused and worried. A review of kojic acid found that some studies in mice suggested there was a link to tumor growth when the acid was used in high concentrations. ), Kojic Acid does NOT cause cancer. Kojic acid is a key ingredient in many skin brightening creams, gels, and serums. The information provided on Optiderma.com is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for the advice of an appropriately qualified practitioner. Trying to add raw kojic acid to creams or lotions may be difficult and result in levels that are irritating to the skin. The FDA do have a voluntary registration program for cosmetic manufacturers in which companies can report how their products are made. However, taking high doses of kojic acid can be dangerous. Find natural remedies and healthy skin tips to help with your skin condition: Sign up for our newsletter to receive the latest news straight in your inbox! It is also used to preserve the freshness and color of foods. J. Beck, Holistic Nutritionist, CNC & Natural Health Writer, Holistic Nutritionist, CNC & Natural Health Writer, Studies about the safety of kojic acid products. But are kojic acid soaps and creams safe to use?Â, Studies show that kojic acid is not a cancer causing agent. One of the main uses of kojic acid, however, is in some health and cosmetic products. Products with a higher concentration of kojic acid may be more likely to lead to irritation. Are you wondering if these products are safe to use? Conditions…. Since kojic acid prevents melanin production, it leaves the skin more vulnerable to sunburn. inflammation. Some erroneously … Hydroquinone has NOT been directly linked to cancer in humans — only mice. The Scientific Committees on Consumer Products (SCCP) approved using kojic acid in skin care products at a concentration of 1% or less ().. You will come across soaps, cleanser, serums, creams, and lotions containing different concentrations of kojic acid. However, kojic acid … I’ve seen it used in modern skin care products too. A review of kojic acid found that some studies in mice suggested there was a link to tumor growth when the acid was used in high concentrations. Most skin lightening products use a concentration closer to 0.2% and add other ingredients to decrease the risks of side effects. Certain products containing kojic acid, such as serums, are meant to be applied to the skin and left on and absorbed. Benefits of Spirulina for Skin (Did you Know About Its Anti-Cancer Effects? The information provided on Optiderma.com is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for the advice of an appropriately qualified practitioner. Prolonged use may cause allergic contact dermatitis according to the manufacturer. IARC KOJIC ACID is listed in group 3 (not classifiable as to its carcinogenicity to humans). Research is still ongoing for other kojic acid uses, but many researchers believe it can help people with various types of cancer such as leukemia, lymphoma, myeloma, melanoma and other types of tumors. However, your skin could become highly sensitive if you use kojic acid products on a regular basis.Â. Some people may see results after a few weeks, although it may take longer in certain situations. Is psoriasis curable with Chinese herbal medicine? Kojic acid can cause … Some people with certain skin conditions or allergies may be advised not to use kojic acid, however. According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer, kojic acid is not classifiable as to its … Kojic acid should be diluted to concentrations of no more than 4 percent. Bug Bites that Blister: How to Soothe Bed Bug, Mosquito & Spider Bites, Essential Oils for Cold Sores (Fever Blisters) & Other Powerful Remedies, 14 High Alkaline Foods & Drinks (& Why They are Actually Good for You), Skeeter Syndrome: Symptoms & Best Remedies For Mosquito Bites. According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer, kojic acid is not classifiable as to its carcinogenicity to humans (source). Keep in mind: For creams to work, you’ll have to use them regularly for weeks or months. Due to these findings manufacturers have now added other ingredients to help counter these effects. It can be included in the diet as well. It also did not exhibit any reproductive toxicity. Many products with kojic acid are intended for use on the hands or face. Enjoying what you're reading?Subscribe to the newsletter and get our latest publications delivered to your inbox: As explained above, the usual recommended dosage of kojic acid is a maximum concentration of 1%. Products containing kojic acid can also be used on other parts of the body, such as the legs and arms. Kojic acid is most commonly used in cosmetic products, such as creams, lotions, and serums. Find out how time and sun exposure cause irreparable damage to our skin. 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