Ingredient
Kojic Acid
Longstanding brightening ingredient with renewed demand in soaps, serums and tone-correcting products.
Category: Brightening
Chemical formula: C6H6O4
Main cosmetic effects: Helps brighten and improve uneven-looking tone.
Source: By-product of fungal fermentation.
Developer / supplier: Japanese fermentation science; multiple Asian suppliers
Origin: Japan / China
Representative product: Kojic acid brightening serums/soaps
Approx. retail price (USD): 10-30
Evidence maturity: Moderate evidence; irritation possible
What it does
Helps brighten and improve uneven-looking tone.
Notes
Brightening | Moderate evidence; irritation possible