Is kojic acid similar to hydroquinone?

Kojic acid is similar to a chemical called hydroquinone. They are both effective treatments for hyperpigmentation. Treatment with kojic acid isn't immediate. For significant improvement, you'll need to use a kojic acid cosmetic for up to three months in some cases.

Is kojic acid soap better than hydroquinone?

Truth is – both kojic acid and hydroquinone can be equally as effective. Trials of both skin brightening actives show 51% of users experience equal pigmentation correcting benefits from kojic acid and hydroquinone, whereas 28% show better benefits with kojic acid and 21% show better results with hydroquinone.

What is the best alternative to hydroquinone?

Mequinol (4-Hydroxyanisole)

Mequinol is the main alternative prescription alternative to hydroquinone. It's also known as methoxyphenol, hydroquinone monomethyl ether, and p-hydroxyanisole.

Can I use hydroquinone and kojic acid together?

Kojic acid and hydroquinone combination is synergistic and has a better depigmenting effect than the other three groups in our study.

Does kojic acid bleach skin?

Introduction: Skin bleaching is the act of using steroid- and chemical-containing products to lighten the skin. Hydroquinone and kojic acid are often used in skin bleaching creams.

KOJIC ACID FOR DARK SPOTS

Is kojic acid stronger than hydroquinone?

Topical Hydroquinone has a faster onset of action and higher efficacy compared to kojic acid with Vitamin C.

What is better than hydroquinone cream?

Arbutin. According to Dr. Green, “Arbutin is a natural form of hydroquinone derived from the bearberry plant. It is a safer and effective alternative to hydroquinone and is less cytotoxic to the melanocytes.” Use it gradually during the first few weeks to make sure your skin doesn't react.

Can kojic acid permanently lighten hyperpigmentation?

While kojic acid can help deal with the occasional melasma flare-up, it won't cure it permanently.

Why you should not use hydroquinone?

FDA has received reports of serious side effects including skin rashes, facial swelling, and ochronosis (discoloration of skin) from the use of skin lightening products containing hydroquinone.

How can I lighten my skin without using hydroquinone?

How can I lighten my dark skin without hydroquinone?

How can I get hydroquinone naturally?

Arbutin, the b-D-glucopyranoside derivative of hydroquinone, is a naturally occurring plant derived compound found in the dried leaves of a number of different plant species including, bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi), blueberry, cranberry, and pear trees.

Is it OK to use kojic acid everyday?

If your skin is super sensitive, Nazarian recommends not using it daily at first; instead, work kojic acid-based products into your regimen just once or twice per week to ensure that your skin can tolerate the ingredient.

How long does it take for kojic acid to lighten skin?

A lightening agent (for dark spots) like hydroquinone, mulberry, licorice, or kojic acid can begin to work in days, but it usually takes weeks to see an appreciable reduction in pigment.

What is better than kojic acid?

Alpha Arbutin has comparatively fewer risks than many whitening ingredients, including kojic acid, making it effective for dark spots and melanin overproduction.

How long does it take for kojic acid to clear hyperpigmentation?

Kojic acid is similar to a chemical called hydroquinone. They are both effective treatments for hyperpigmentation. Treatment with kojic acid isn't immediate. For significant improvement, you'll need to use a kojic acid cosmetic for up to three months in some cases.

Will I get darker if I stop using kojic acid?

Despite its "acid" moniker, kojic acid is safe to use — though we wouldn't recommend any of the products designed to completely lighten your complexion as your overall skin tone shouldn't be tampered with; it will eventually shift back to its natural state once you discontinue use.

Why is kojic acid making me darker?

Kojic Acid is very strong. It exfoliates your skin. So you will get a little darker, that is the dead skin sitting on top.

Is there an alternative to hydroquinone?

There are several safe alternatives to hydroquinone that can be used long-term. You can find them in a variety of skin care products. Other safe, natural alternatives to hydroquinone include brightening ingredients like kojic acid, vitamin C, mushroom, licorice/glycyrrhizin, azelaic acid, and niacinamide (vitamin B3).

What is the strongest hydroquinone?

Additionally, the highest strength that is commercially available with a prescription is a hydroquinone 4% cream. A cream with 6, 8, or 10 percent hydroquinone can only be obtained from a compounding pharmacy with a prescription.

What cream do dermatologist use for hyperpigmentation?

Hydroquinone is the gold standard for treating hyperpigmentation in dermatology. Its effectiveness and safety is so well-documented in clinical studies that almost all dermatology providers will recommend 4% hydroquinone as a first step for anyone with significant pigment concerns.

How long should you leave kojic acid on your skin?

Two popular products include the PCA SKIN Pigment Bar and the Marie France Kojic Acid (Maximum Strength). You'll want to follow these instructions carefully, massaging the soap onto your face for at least 2 minutes for maximum effect. Then wash off with warm water.

What acid is best for hyperpigmentation?

Exfoliating acids

AHA such as Glycolic acid, Lactic acid & Mandelic acid can work best for Hyperpigmentation. However, Mandelic acid is most preferred and for all the right reasons.