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