Kojic Acid

 INCI name- Kojic Acid

Alternate names- Kojic Acid (5-hydroxy-2-hydroxymethyl-4-pyrone), Hexadecanoic Acid

Why you need it -

• This mild acid is a powerful anti-oxidant and exhibits anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-aging benefits. 
• It is revered for its use as a skin-lightening ingredient all over the world.
• It significantly reduces dark spots and hyper-pigmentation and is a safer alternative to hydroquinone.
• It can be found in creams, lotions, serums, and even soaps.
• It acts as an anti-tumor and a radioprotective agent.

Process of using -

• It begets the desired skin-lightening effect by blocking the formation of tyrosine.
• This blockage of tyrosine eventually prevents the production of melanin.

 CONCENTRATION AND SOLUBILITY

• Conventionally, the concentration for use in skincare products is 1%-4%.
• It is stable at PH around 4.
• Kojic acid is readily soluble in water, ethanol, and acetone; sparingly soluble in ether, ethyl acetate, chloroform, and pyridine; and difficultly soluble in most other liquids.