15 Best Esthetician-Approved Kojic Acid Products For Fine Lines (2024)
Get that glowing, flawless skin without any hassle with these kojic acid products.
Akis NtonosEsthetician
Akis Ntonos is the co-founder of Aion Aesthetics and a family nurse practitioner (FNP) with five years of experience. He is board-certified by the American Academy of Procedural Medicine to administer injectable treatments. Akis focuses on ... more
kirtana divakarMA (Journalism & Mass Communication)
Experience: 3 yearsKirtana has a postgraduate degree in mass communication and journalism from St. Joseph’s College, Bengaluru, and 3 years of professional experience. She developed a deep passion for writing after read... more
shiboli chakrabortiMA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach
Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor,... more
swathi eMA (English Literature)
Experience: 3 yearsSwathi has a postgraduate degree in English literature from The English And Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and over three years of experience in writing on beauty, health, and lifestyle. She... more
Image: Shutterstock
Asian skin care products are known for their miraculous secret ingredients. Kojic acid products are one such type of skin care product that can help you get that glowing, spotless skin with regular use. Kojic acid is a beneficial skincare ingredient that is derived as a byproduct while fermenting rice to make Japanese rice wine or sake. It has been glorified as the skin care elixir not only for its skin-lightening effects but also for its anti-acne and antiseptic properties. It has the ability to fight bacteria on the skin and act as an antimicrobial in order to fight acne or fungal infections. Along with that, it helps nourish your skin, improves elasticity, and reduces fine lines and wrinkles. Always make sure to incorporate this product slowly into your routine in order to avoid potential irritation.
If you have been looking to add some exotic ingredients into your skincare routine, you can indulge yourself in some of the kojic acid products available as creams, masks, lotions, and serums. With so many options to pamper yourself with, it can get overwhelming to choose just one for yourself. Don’t worry. To make it easier for you, we have listed the 15 best kojic acid products available right now. Check them out below!
In This Article
15 Best Kojic Acid Products To Reduce Fine Lines & Wrinkles – 2024
Best For Hyperpigmentation:Admire My Skin Ultra-Potent Brightening Serum
If you are looking for a quick and efficient treatment for hyperpigmentation and dark spots, use this kojic acid skin lightener. Known to be as effective as many medicated melasma treatment creams, you will be able to witness smooth, even-toned skin with faded dark spots within 4 weeks of using this serum. It offers the highest concentration of hydroquinone permissible for OTC products— so you can count on it to fade those stubborn dark spots. It is formulated with 2% hydroquinone, salicylic acid, azelaic acid, lactic acid, and vitamin C, and when used once or twice every day, it reduces dark spots to reveal a brighter skin. Make sure you give it a 30-day break after using it for 60 days for the best results. Click on the video for a detailed review of the Admire My Skin Ultra-Potent Brightening Serum.
Pros
- Gentle for daily use
- Fast acting
- Fights hyperpigmentation
- Fades fine lines
Cons
- May be drying
CautionBest For Dull Skin:Koji White Kojic Acid Skin Brightening Soap
This cleansing soap bar with the goodness of kojic acid can be a gentle everyday alternative to your regular soap for an even skin tone. Coconut oil, tea tree extract, and hyaluronic acid give this soap a luscious texture that lathers richly to nourish your skin. These good-for-skin ingredients penetrate deep into your skin to revitalize and moisturize dull skin while bringing back the natural glow of your skin. Use this paraben and cruelty-free formula if you’re on the lookout for a bar soap that minimizes the appearance of dark spots and freckles and helps with acne scar fading. The skin brightener product has not been tested on animals.
Pros
- Contains natural ingredients
- Fades dark spots, freckles and acne scars
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Pleasant scent
Cons
- May not be suitable for extremely dry skin
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received 18,577 reviews on Amazon and is a popular choice among shoppers.
Best For All Skin Types:Divine Derriere Skin Brightening Corrector Serum
This potent dark spot corrector is formulated with 2% hydroquinone, vitamin C, witch hazel, and high-potency AHA (alpha hydroxy acid) and BHA like salicylic acid, azelaic acid, lactic acid, including our star ingredient— kojic acid. It is an ideal pick to tackle blotchy skin tone, unwanted freckles, dark spots, acne scars, hyperpigmentation, and melasma. With a gentle lightening gel-like formula, it can be applied on the face, neck, hands, elbows, knees, inner thighs, and underarms. You can also use this kojic acid skincare product under your makeup to set the base. Suitable for most skin types, this serum is the perfect gift you can get for your skin renewal.
Pros
- Evens out skin tone
- Suitable for all skin types
- Improved appearance of enlarged pores
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Contains alcohol
Quick TipBest For Blackheads:Marie France Skin And Body Care Original Kojic Soap
Image: Marie France Skin And Body Care Another superhero skincare product when it comes to fighting melasma and dark spots is this product with higher concentration of kojic acid. This kojic soap is formulated with papaya fruit extract to even out the skin tone with its skin-lightening properties. It can also help you get rid of other skin issues such as breakouts, hyperpigmentation, dark spots, old scars, burn marks, and blackheads. The papaya fruit extract also acts as an exfoliator to remove dead skin cells and reveals healthier skin cells for a glowing skin. The papaya fruit extract also acts as an exfoliator to remove dead skin cells and reveals healthier skin cells for glowing skin. This kojic soap can be used both on the face and body. The product has not undergone testing on animals.
Pros
- Highly potent
- Removes dead skin cells
- Natural-looking fairer skin
- Removes blackheads
- Fades hyperpigmentation
Cons
- May not be suitable for sensitive skin
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With 4,340 positive reviews on Amazon, this product has become a bestseller.
Best Lightweight:Koji White Kojic Acid Body Lotion Skin Lightening
Get that amazing airbrushed look with the lightweight and quick absorbing formula of this kojic acid lotion.The concentrated extract of kojic acid along with other ingredients like rice bran oil, coconut oil, glycerine, and botanical extracts not only fade stubborn spots, freckles, and other marks but also provide deep moisturization to your skin, giving you softer, brighter and smoother skin. It also contains dimethicone, a gentle moisturizer that gives the skin lasting smoothing benefits and is great for dry rough skin. Apply this lotion every day pretty much like a regular moisturizer and you’ll witness skin tone balancing over time. Click on this video to find out about a reviewer’s experience of using the product. The product has not been subjected to animal testing.
Pros
- Hydrates
- Reduces back acne
- Lightweight
- Brightens skin
Cons
- Contains alcohol
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The extensive 2,300 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are vouching for this product.
Best For Discoloration:Pureauty Naturals Natural Skin Lightening Serum With Kojic Acid
If you’ve used countless products only to be disappointed with no apparent results, you need this fast-acting serum to transform your skincare game. This natural skin lightener uses 3 active ingredients for discoloration defense— kojic acid, jojoba oil, and green tea extract to fade the dark spots, blemishes, and hyperpigmentation, adding a youthful glow to your skin. The potent combo of these ingredients with tea tree extract helps soothe the skin while giving it a natural gleam. If you’re looking for long-lasting and evident results for dark spots, this serum is a must-have. Click on the video to watch a demo and detailed review of the Pureauty Naturals Natural Skin Lightening Serum With Kojic Acid.
Pros
- Reduces appearance of discoloration
- Fades dark spots
- Lightens blemishes
- Suitable for all skin types
- Cruelty-free and vegan
Cons
- May not help with deep scar lightening
Pro TipBest Non-Sticky:Koji White Kojic Acid & Papaya Body Lotion
Image: Koji White The Koji White Kojic Acid & Papaya Body Lotion helps brighten and hydrate the skin and reduces black spots. This lotion’s main components, kojic acid and papaya extract, reduce hyperpigmentation and brighten the skin. Mushroom-derived kojic acid reduces melanin formation. Papaya extract exfoliates and brightens the skin with natural enzymes. The non-sticky formula also contains potent antioxidants including vitamins A, C, and E to protect the skin from environmental damage. This lotion also keeps the skin moisturized and nourished. The product has not been tested on animals.
Pros
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- SLS-free
- Dye-free
- Lightweight
- Fast-absorbing
- Natural ingredients
Cons
- None
Best Dermatologist-Tested:La Roche-Posay Glycolic B5 Serum Dark Spot Corrector
One of the quickest ways to fade those obstinate dark spots is by using this lightening serum with kojic acid. It boasts a rich formulation of a triple acid complex— 10% glycolic acid, kojic acid, and lipo-hydroxy acids that reduce the appearance of dark spots and discoloration. It fights potential dryness and helps buff away dead skin cells to reveal new and healthy cells that brighten your skin. This lightweight serum with an enhanced formula containing vitamin B5 is sensitive skin-friendly. Just apply 3 to 4 drops of the board-certified dermatologist-recommended product every evening on your face and neck, and you’ll see visible results in 2 to 4 weeks.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Effective spot treatment
- Non-comedogenic
- Allergy-tested
- Dermatologist-tested
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Fragrance and paraben-free
Cons
- Slightly expensive
Best Gentle Formula:evagloss Natural Skincare Serum With Kojic Acid
If your skin is prone to breaking out frequently, you might also be dealing with the hassle of acne scars that refuse to leave for weeks or even months. Fret not, because this kojic acid serum can help tackle that problem. This natural lightening serum with kojic acid, arbutin, and fullerene reduces dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and freckles while evening out the skin tone both for the face and body. It is formulated without hydroquinone, which makes it gentle enough to be used as an everyday serum for even sensitive body parts like inner thighs, armpits, knees, and neck.
Pros
- Nourishing
- Gentle formula
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Can be used on sensitive body parts
Cons
- Some may find the consistency too thick.
Best Non-Irritating:PCA Skin Pigment Bar
Start your fight against the dark spots with this result-oriented kojic acid bar. It is a powerful blend of azelaic acid and niacinamide that helps reduce redness and discoloration to even out the skin texture of the whole body, including the face and scalp. This cruelty-free product also contains glycerin, coconut oil, castor seed oil, palm oil, witch hazel, safflower seed oil, and soy proteins that can be used for both normal and combination skin types. Scientifically developed to promote healthy skin, it has no irritants or dyes.
Pros
- Reduces redness
- Remediates hyperpigmentation
- Cruelty-free
- No irritants or dyes
Cons
- Contains alcohol
Best Non-Greasy:Professor Eco Kojic Acid Vitamin C Moisturizer
Image: Professor Eco The Professor Eco Kojic Acid Vitamin C Moisturizer improves skin discoloration brought on by sun exposure, dust, premature aging, and post-acne marks. This powerful plant-based brightener and wrinkle-reducing cream give you a radiant look straight away. Both kojic acid and vitamin C, which are abundant in this moisturizer, are recognized for their potent antioxidant and skin-brightening effects. The hydrating and nourishing effects of the shea butter and aloe vera and jojoba oil in this moisturizer make it gentle enough for delicate and sensitive skin. This mild and effective moisturizer includes potent antioxidants that protect against UV radiation and potential skin damage. This proprietary blend quickly begins working to reduce redness and dullness by promoting healthy cell development.
Pros
- Hydrates sensitive skin
- Protects from Uv rays
- Collagen boosting
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- None
Best For Even Skin Tone:Evagloss Dark Spot Corrector Serum with Kojic Acid
The Evagloss Dark Spot Corrector Serum with Kojic Acid reduces dark spots and uneven skin tones on the face and body by penetrating deeply into the skin. This skin clarifying serum contains natural ingredients, such as glycolic acid and lactic acid, that exfoliate the face and eliminate dead skin cells, resulting in brighter, smoother skin. Vitamin C, a potent antioxidant, defends the skin from environmental pollutants while also illuminating the complexion. With consistent application, it will help you attain a more radiant, even complexion and a healthy skin tone.
Pros
- Evens out skin tone
- Brightens skin
- Fights free radicals
- Hydroquinone-free
- Suitable for all parts of the body
- Gentle and safe for the skin
Cons
- None
Best Soothing:Feli Naturals AM/PM Dark Spot Corrector Treatment
The Feli Naturals AM/PM Dark Spot Corrector Treatment is a powerful and effective skin rejuvenation solution for fading all hyperpigmentation in the face and body. It is formulated with a blend of potent ingredients that works on targeting and reducing the appearance of all dark spots, sun spots, and age spots.
The formula includes kojic acid and hyaluronic acid, a natural ingredient known for its ability to lighten and brighten the skin. It even helps to hydrate and nourish the skin. Vitamin C provides an antioxidant boost to help protect your skin from further damage, and Tranexamic Acid helps to reduce the appearance of dark spots and improve skin tone. In addition, the treatment contains 4-Butylresorcinol, a powerful ingredient known for its ability to reduce the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation. It also contains MSM and aloe vera, which provide additional hydration and soothing benefits to the skin. With regular use, this powerful formula will leave your skin looking brighter, clearer, and more even-toned.
Pros
- Vegan
- Cruelty – free
- Paraben – free
- No synthetic dyes or fragrances
Cons
- Take several weeks of consistent use to show results
Perfect Image Hydro-Glo Peel Pads - Tone
Let these no-mess peel pads help you tackle dark spots and uneven skin tone and pamper your skin as you sit back and relax. This kojic acid fairness peel is formulated to zap even the most stubborn dark spots, show visible results, and bring out your skin’s natural glow. With fortifying ingredients like glutathione, lactic acid, kojic acid, papaya, bearberry, ylang ylang, rooibos, yarrow, willow bark, and pineapple extracts, these easy-to-use hydro-glo pads can improve your overall complexion by gently exfoliating and moisturizing your skin. It is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties to add more to its benefits. The product has not been tested on animals. A patch test is recommended before committing to this product, especially if you have allergy-prone or sensitive skin.
Pros
- Easy-to-use
- Contains antioxidants
- Exfoliates skin
- Prevents wrinkle development
Cons
- May not be suitable for extremely dry skin
Best In Budget:AKARZ Kojic Acid Powder
You don’t have to shell out a huge amount to achieve your skin goals. This budget-friendly kojic acid powder can offer a holistic treatment for your skin issues. It brings back that youthful-looking skin with its 100% natural ingredients. It contains kojic acid in its purest form which aids in lightening of the skin by curbing the melanin production which is responsible for skin darkening and pigmentation. This dark spot remover comes with a spoon which can be used to add the powder to your regular lotion or serum to give it a sprinkle of skin-lightening magic.
Pros
- 100% natural
- Long shelf life
- Treats dark spots
- Fades hyperpigmentation
- Anti-aging properties
Cons
- Can’t be used on its own
We are sure that you must have gained amazing insight into the skin-related and anti-aging benefits of kojic acid products from the reviews and our extensive list of the bests. Now here’s a buying guide to help you choose the right product for your skin.
How To Choose Kojic Acid Products
- Kojic Acid concentration
Products containing 2% kojic acid are considered safe for the skin as there are lower chances of skin irritation. Those with sensitive skin should pay special attention to the concentration of kojic acid in a certain product. While raw kojic acid is available, it is recommended not to use it on the skin until it is diluted to a concentration of no more than 4%.
- Skin type
Though it is acidic, kojic acid is safe for all skin types. But if you have sensitive skin, make sure that you choose a product with not more than 1% concentration of kojic acid as some may sometimes develop allergic reactions such as skin irritation and rashes from the strength of the acid. Similarly, for acne prone or oily skin, consult a dermatologist for the best-suited product.
- Hydroquinone
It is recommended to look for kojic acid products with hydroquinone as they do a better job at evening out the skin tone. Kojic acid along with hydroquinone is a superior depigmenting agent. Any given product can contain a maximum of 2% hydroquinone. That is the maximum concentration permitted in the over-the-counter products. However, for sensitive skin, it is recommended to opt for a product with the lowest possible concentration of hydroquinone.
- Additional ingredients
You can choose kojic acid products that also contain retinol, glycolic acid, vitamin C, and niacinamide as they all help in fading the dark spots. These ingredients along with kojic acid help provide faster results.
Kojic acid products come in different forms and each has its own way of application. People experience their benefits in various ways. Here’s how you can use some of the common types of kojic acid products.
How To Use Kojic Acid Products
- Creams and serums are specifically formulated to be left on and be absorbed into the skin. You can use it pretty much like you would use your regular lotion, cream, or serum. Using it in night creams also offers anti-aging effect for your skin.
- Body lotions are usually lightweight and make for an amazing substitute for your regular moisturizer with added benefits such as skin lightening and fading blemishes. They’re also relatively easier to include in your daily skincare routine and require only a little effort.
- Powders should be mixed with water, serum or lotion for application on the affected skin areas, depending on the instructions provided on the label of the product.
- Soaps and cleansers should be washed off in about 2 minutes to avoid any irritation or any potential harmful effects.
All the information about kojic acid for each product and why you should use it for your skin can be overwhelming. Let us summarize the benefits of kojic acid for you.
Benefits Of Kojic Acid For Skin
- Kojic acid products help fade dark spots caused by unwanted hyperpigmentation, sun exposure and damage, or with age. That is a major benefit of kojic acid. The ability of kojic acid to reduce dark spots is strengthened by the presence of antioxidants in the formula of the product you intend to use.
- Melasma is a skin condition that is more prevalent among pregnant women which leads to dark patches on the face, and can be treated using kojic acid. Kojic acid inhibits the production of melanin, which helps in preventing melasma.
- It’s a multitasker. The anti-inflammatory properties of kojic acid help treat itchy, red, and inflamed skin, and its antimicrobial properties help protect your skin from certain strains of bacteria.
- Kojic acid can help treat scarring from razor burn, ingrown hairs, or other hair removal-related issues.
Infographic: Key Ingredients That Augment The Effects Of Kojic Acid
Kojic acid is commonly found in many skin care products due to its skin-brightening and spot-lightening properties. Pairing it with other active ingredients can work wonders for the skin. These ingredients can boost the effects of kojic acid and provide other benefits. Check out some of these ingredients in the infographic below.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Everyone dreams of flawless skin. But to get such skin, you need to focus on special products that make your skin look blemish-free. Kojic acid works wonders when it comes to brightening your skin, improving skin elasticity, and minimizing fine lines and wrinkles. Long-term use of kojic acid products can definitely yield noticeable results. Additionally, the antiseptic properties of kojic acid help to combat acne concerns. So it would be of great help to invest in products formulated with Kojic acid. You can try the Koji White Kojic Acid Skin Brightening Soap which rejuvenates dull skin and fades dark spots and scars, the Divine Derriere Skin Brightening Corrector Serum which improves the appearance of pores and treats blotchy skin, and the La Roche-Posay Glycolic B5 Serum Dark Spot Corrector which eliminates dead skin cells and brightens the skin. Whether it’s a serum, lotion, or brightening cream, the above products reduce dark spots, nourish your skin, and improve skin’s texture. However, avoid products that are not suitable for your skin type.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is kojic acid good for your skin?
Kojic acid has anti-inflammation, antimicrobial and anti-aging properties. It is primarily used to lighten visible spots from sun damage, age spots, or scars.
Does kojic acid help acne?
As it has antimicrobial properties, it can help fight some strains of bacteria even in diluted forms. Hence, it can help treat acne caused by bacteria and also fade acne scars.
Can kojic acid permanently lighten skin?
No. It cannot permanently lighten your skin. However, as it is not harmful to living cells, you can enjoy its benefits for as long as you use it.
Is kojic acid better than hydroquinone?
Comparative studies show 4% hydroquinone and 0.75% kojic acid + 2.5% vitamin C are effective topical hypopigmenting agents but 4% hydroquinone is better with rapid rate of clinical improvement.
How long does kojic acid take to work?
When you use kojic acid topically, you should be able to see the results in 2 weeks.
Does kojic acid fade dark spots?
Products with kojic acid can fade dark spots.
What are the side effects of kojic acid products?
A very rare side effect is dermatitis defined by redness, irritation, itchiness, rashes, swollen skin, or pain and discomfort. Please stop using the product when you encounter any side effects.
How often can you use kojic acid on sensitive skin?
It is recommended to not use kojic acid products on sensitive skin every day at first. Start by using them once or twice a week to ensure that your skin does not develop any reactions.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Author Kirtana Divakar is on top of the latest skin care developments, which is why she swears by this Asian beauty secret. She carefully researched the market and compiled a list to find the best kojic acid-containing skin care products based on preferences and skin types. Skin care products containing kojic acid reduce hyperpigmentation, irritation, and scarring and leave your skin looking glowing and flawless.
