This is just a short list of some of the major benefits of kojic acid. Did you find this content useful? Often they point out that hydroquinone can cause cancer and was banned in Europe. © 2004-2020 Healthline Media UK Ltd, Brighton, UK, a Red Ventures Company. Using kojic acid may make someone more likely to develop a sunburn. It also did not exhibit any reproductive toxicity. Kojic acid should be diluted to concentrations of no more than 4 percent. Is kojic acid safe? Please consult a practitioner (such as Naturopath, Homeopath, Doctor of Chinese Medicine, Dermatologist, ...) to follow the most appropriate treatment to heal your skin. Certain products containing kojic acid, such as serums, are meant to be applied to the skin and left on and absorbed. Kojic acid is a chemical produced from different types of fungi. 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. 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. ... arbutin and Kojic acid. Reportedly, studies found that kojic acid is not a cancer causing agent â unlike hydroquinone (source). 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 ⦠Kojic acid is a chelation agent produced by several species of fungi, especially Aspergillus oryzae, which has the Japanese common name koji. Kojic acid is sometimes used in the food industry as a natural preservative. 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 (5-hydroxy-2-(hydroxymethyl)-4H-pyran-4-one) is a natural product produce by many species of fungi such as Aspergillus, Acetobacter and Penicillium.Kojic acid was discovered in ⦠It is also used in some soaps. 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. And they might irritate your skin. It is always best to talk to a dermatologist to make sure using products containing kojic acid is safe. Since kojic acid prevents melanin production, it leaves the skin more vulnerable to sunburn. 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. People should not use kojic acid on skin that is already red or irritated. Many products with kojic acid are intended for use on the hands or face. 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). However, this link was weak since kojic acid is slowly absorbed into the circulation. Using pre-made skin lotions and creams that already contain kojic acid in specific concentrations may be a better option. A dermatologist can also provide recommendations on specific products, including the frequency of use and the concentration strength. MNT is the registered trade mark of Healthline Media. ), How to Use Rose Geranium Essential Oil as a Natural Tick Repellent (for Humans and Dogs). 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. 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. This is why the Kojic Acid can make the area of skin whiter by preventing the synthesis of melanin. However, kojic acid ⦠Rodent studies involving VERY HIGH DOSES of hydroquinone administered by feeding tube showed the potential to cause cancer, according to the FDA. It is also a by-product of fermented soy sauce and rice wine. However, your skin could become highly sensitive if you use kojic acid products on a regular basis.Â. One of the main uses of kojic acid, however, is in some health and cosmetic products. All legal mentions », Optiderma.com uses Google AdSense and affiliate link programs to remunerate its contributors. Here's an inspirational quote that will make you think! Could telomere shortening protect against cancer? However, no carcinogenic ⦠Raw kojic acid is available, but it is not recommended for skin use. The combination of the two may cause ⦠For example, consuming food that youâre sensitive to will only cause more (not reduce!) Some products, such as soaps, are applied and washed off. Iâve seen it used in modern skin care products too. Kojic Acid Good news On the plus side, the SCCP found that kojic acid is not genotoxic or carcinogenic. The CIR Expert Panel agreed that kojic acid could be safely used in cosmetic products. You may come across online discussions on the safety of kojic acid that bring into question its potential to cause cancer. Cosmetic products are not regulated the same way medicines and foods are. It is important to protect your skin from the sun while using kojic acid. Let’s see what the studies show and learn about the risks of using kojic acid products. It is unlikely that levels would become high enough to cause cancer in humans. Kojic Acid ⦠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. Melanin is what determines the colour pigmentation of the skin. Is psoriasis curable with Chinese herbal medicine? Letâs see what the studies show and learn about the risks of using kojic acid products. Kojic Acid acts as a tyrosinase enzyme inhibitor that reduces the skin’s ability to produce and synthesize melanin. Although some safety issues were seen in animal studies when extremely high doses were used, there does ⦠Make sure you read the label to check the concentration of kojic acid. A concentration of 1 to 2 percent is recommended to reduce the chance of skin irritation. Melanin protects the skin from harmful UV rays. By reducing the amount in your skin you reduce your natural defence from the sun. Excess melanin comes to the surface and peels off in a few days. Trying to add raw kojic acid to creams or lotions may be difficult and result in levels that are irritating to the skin. Kojic acid, a product derived from several species of fungi, is known to limit melanin production -- the substance that gives skin its color. Read more ». 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%. Risk of highly sensitive skin after using kojic acid products, Excessive use of kojic acid products can result in sun damage. Conditions…. Contact dermatitis can cause a rash, itching, and dry patches of skin. According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer, kojic acid is not classifiable as to its carcinogenicity to humans (source). Azelaic acid, kojic acid, arbutin and other lightening agents are always a great choice. The FDA do have a voluntary registration program for cosmetic manufacturers in which companies can report how their products are made. If you are allergic to the foods, herbs, essential oils, any remedies listed here, you must of course avoid them. Consequently, kojic acid is a common ingredient in skin lightening or depigmenting 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 ⦠Donât use skincare products that contain benzoyl peroxide while youâre under hydroquinone treatment. Products with a higher concentration of kojic acid may be more likely to lead to irritation. People who develop a rash or irritation when using products containing kojic acid should stop using them immediately. Kojic acid is a by-product in the fermentation process of ⦠Yet the usually quick to pull the recall trigger FDA still permits hydroquinone to be sold hereâ both in over the counter formulations and in prescription only preparations. Large amounts of kojic acid cream may cause ⦠In these individuals, more than 1% of kojic acid could cause severe hypersensitive side effects [4, 5]. (1) https://ec.europa.eu/health/ph_risk/committees/04_sccp/docs/sccp_o_148.pdf, (2) https://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Monographs/vol79/mono79-20.pdf, (3) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21164073, (4) https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/ingredient/703324/KOJIC_ACID/. Kojic Acid is a natural acid that is derived from a Japanese species of mushrooms. It has traditionally been used in the production of a number of foods, including miso, soy sauce and sake. Kojic Acid has been shown to be quite effective at lightening skin. Kojic acid inhibits and prevents the formation of tyrosine, which is an amino acid thatâs needed to produce melanin. You can buy kojic acid soap, as it is safe for your skin. Although the use of products containing kojic acid may be considered safe for most people, there are some risks and possible side effects. Melanin is the pigment that affects hair, skin, and eye color. Why do fever blisters hurt & How to Relieve Pain? These include a burning or stinging sensation directly on the skin where the salicylic acid was applied. Hydroquinone is a chemical that bleaches the skin. 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). Would it help someone you know? Because of its ability to really penetrate the layers of your ⦠Some erroneously ⦠Kojic acid can lead to contact dermatitis in some people, especially those with sensitive skin. Are kojic acid soaps effective for skin lightening? However, taking high doses of kojic acid can be dangerous. It sometimes takes only a few weeks to see sufficient results. Melanin is a naturally occurring pigment in the body that gives the eyes, hair, and skin their color. Answer ⦠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. But that it is not likely to be a human carcinogen. 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. According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer, kojic acid is not classifiable as to its ⦠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. According to the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Assessments, it is determined safe for use in cosmetics, subject to concentration or use limitations. All rights reserved. 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. Some believe that this may make kojic acid a carcinogen; studies show that it causes cancer in mouse thyroid glands. But the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) adds that kojic acid is unsafe for use on injured or damaged skin. IARC KOJIC ACID is listed in group 3 (not classifiable as to its carcinogenicity to humans). Some researches assert that kojic acid may cause cancer in large amounts. What do scientific committees say about it? If symptoms do not clear up in a few days, it is best to see a doctor. I was both confused and worried. It is often found in scar therapies thanks to its ability to lighten skin, including dark scars and other dark spots. Some animal studies have shown high amounts of kojic acid to cause liver, kidney, reproductive, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal and respiratory side effects, and high doses have been shown to be toxic to the brain and nervous system. Cosmetic products are not required by law to be approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) before being sold. Keep in mind: For creams to work, youâll have to use them regularly for weeks or months. Most skin lightening products use a concentration closer to 0.2% and add other ingredients to decrease the risks of side effects. 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! Can kojic acid cause skin cancer? It is also a by-product of the fermentation process utilized in making sake (Japanese rice wine.) Kojic acid is believed to be cancerous when used in large doses. Are you wondering if these products are safe to use? Since then it has become one of the leading effective ingredients due to being proven safer than others that have been suspect of being carcinogenic (cause cancer⦠In a review of 165 kojic acid toxicity studies, the Nonprofit Environmental Working Group (EWG) notes that some studies have indicated that kojic acid causes cell mutation in mammals. Decreased melanin production may have a lightening effect on the skin. Also, the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel reviews safety. Ochronosis is a ⦠Products containing kojic acid may only be recommended to be used for a brief time. Last medically reviewed on October 3, 2017, Laughter lines are a common sign of ageing. Some people with certain skin conditions or allergies may be advised not to use kojic acid, however. Lines, wrinkles, and dark spots are all telltale signs of aging. Note that kojic acid in skin whitening products is safe since the concentration is low. Quinoa salad recipe with avocado and almonds. Kojic acid is a key ingredient in many skin brightening creams, gels, and serums. It is also used to preserve the freshness and color of foods. Melanin helps protect the skin from sun damage due to UV rays. Blister Healing Time: How Long Does It Take For a Blister to Heal? According to the reviewers, the available data suggest that the use of products containing kojic acid with a concentration of 2 percent for products left on the skin is considered safe. The concentration of kojic acid in creams, serums, and soaps may vary by manufacturer. Due to these findings manufacturers have now added other ingredients to help counter these effects. Sunburned Lips: How to Treat Sun Blisters on Lips Naturally? ⦠The science behind how kojic acid works as a lightening agent involves its effect on melanin production. In 2003, Japanâs health ministry ordered the removal of kojic acid from the market over fears, based on animal studies, that the fungal metabolite might cause cancer (Nature 2004;432:938). By reducing the amount in your skin you reduce your natural defence from the sun. Various forms of skin irritation may surface after use of salicylic acid. Kojic acid is a substance produced by certain Japanese mushrooms. Products containing kojic acid can also be used on other parts of the body, such as the legs and arms. An amino acid called tyrosine is needed to support the production of melanin. It may be used to treat skin conditions, such as sun damage, scars, and age spots. 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. Kojic acid works by blocking tyrosine from forming, which then prevents melanin production. inflammation. Itâs a normal reaction to sun exposure. This product does not contain any chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or ⦠In severe cases, pain and blisters can develop. EWG rates the overall hazard of kolic acid as moderate (source). Find out how time and sun exposure cause irreparable damage to our skin. But are kojic acid soaps and creams safe to use?Â, Studies show that kojic acid is not a cancer causing agent. Are you thinking of buying kojic acid products to lighten your skin? Kojic acid is sometimes used in health and beauty products to lighten the skin. ), Kojic Acid does NOT cause cancer. The concentration of kojic acid in cosmetics is often between 1 and 4 percent. Kojic acid may be helpful for people who have dark spots on their skin due to sun damage, aging, or scars. Benefits of Spirulina for Skin (Did you Know About Its Anti-Cancer Effects? When choosing products, people should be sure to follow their directions for use. Kojic acid is most commonly used in cosmetic products, such as creams, lotions, and serums. But sometimes our skin produces excess melanin in some areas ⦠Look for creams that contain tranexamic acid, niacinamide, or kojic acid. 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. I bought a bar of kojic acid because I heard it helps with dark spots and hyperpigmentation. It may even be used to help prevent the spread of various forms of cancer. It can be included in the diet as well. When our skin is exposed to the sun, it produces melanin to protect itself from UV rays. It sometimes takes only a few weeks to see sufficient results. Kojic acid is a natural substance, but does it mean it is safe to use? Here’s a good kojic acid soap that you can find on Amazon: Koji White. Kojic Acid: It is one of the most important bleaching agents, which can easily inhibit the production of Melanin in our body. Be aware that if you use of kojic acid on a regular basis, it may cause sun damage to the skin. It is also important to make sure the product contains the concentration of kojic acid recommended by a dermatologist. A person can apply these products directly to the skin. In skin care, kojic acid is used as a skin-lightening agent. It can come as a cream, emulsion, gel, or lotion. Drop a widget on "Footer Sidebar 1" sidebar at Appearance > Widgets page. Be aware that if you use of kojic acid on a regular basis, it may cause sun damage to the skin. Itâs also been found to have anti-cancer effects, so there are no ⦠It should also not be used on broken skin. Kojic acid is a chemical derived from mushrooms, and can also be created during the sake brewing process from fermented rice. 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. Some people may see results after a few weeks, although it may take longer in certain situations. Although the amount of kojic acid in skincare products is usually not enough to trigger irritation, there is still a danger of developing allergic contact dermatitis with continued regular use. The darker your skin pigmentation, the longer it’s going to take to see results. Kojic acid can cause ⦠Then in 1989 kojic acid is rediscovered in Japan for its skin lightening properties for skin care use. J. Beck, Holistic Nutritionist, CNC & Natural Health Writer, Holistic Nutritionist, CNC & Natural Health Writer, Studies about the safety of kojic acid products. In the low concentrations used in skincare products (anything too high will irritate skin, remember?
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