What is Kojic Acid?
Kojic acid is an organic compound with the formula HOCH2C5H2O2OH. It is a natural derivative of a fermented fungi, especially Aspergillus oryzae, which has the Japanese common name koji. It is also a by-product of fermented soy sauce and rice wine. Chemically, it is a pyranone. It is primarily known and used for its skin-lightening properties.
Macsen Laboratories is the leading supplier of Kojic Acid with ISO certification.
| PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS | |
|---|---|
| Name of Product | Kojic Acid |
| IUPAC Name | 5-hydroxy-2-(hydroxymethyl)pyran-4-one |
| Synonyms | acido kojico; 5-Hydroxy-2-(hydroxymethyl)-4H-pyran-4-one; Kojisaeure; 2-hydroxymethyl-5-hydroxy-γ-pyrone |
| CAS No | 501-30-4 |
| Molecular Formula | C6H6O4 |
| Molecular Weight | 142.11 g/mol |
| Pubchem CID | 3840 |
Chemical Properties
| SR. No | Criteria | Limit/Specification |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Appearance (Form) | Solid crystalline powder |
| 2 | Appearance (Color) | White |
| 3 | Melting Point | 152 to 155 °C |
| 4 | Solubility | Soluble in ethanol, ethyl ether, acetone, DMSO Slightly soluble in benzene, water |
| 5 | Loss on Drying | ≤1% |
| 6 | Residue on Ignition | ≤0.2% |
Uses
Kojic Acid has the following primary uses –
- It is best known for its ability to inhibit the production of melanin and is often used to lighten visible sun damage, age spots, or scars.
- As a skin lightening agent, it is also used to treat melasma.
- It has antifungal and antibacterial properties and is thus incorporated in creams and lotions to treat certain skin infections.
- Owing to its antimicrobial properties, it can help treat acne caused by bacteria in the skin.
- Kojic acid can be utilized on sliced fruits to inhibit browning due to oxidation and is also used in seafood to maintain their pink and red hues.
Side effects
The possible side effects which may occur due to the use of Kojic acid are as follows-
- Skin irritation, leading to redness, itchiness, discomfort, or a burning sensation
- Contact dermatitis
- Increased Sensitivity to Sunlight
- Skin Dryness
FAQs
Q. Does kojic acid cause cancer?
As of now, there is no sufficient evidence to suggest that kojic acid causes cancer in humans.
Q. What does kojic acid do?
Kojic acid inhibits and blocks the formation of tyrosine, which is an amino acid that is needed to produce melanin. This results in decreased melanin production, thus exhibiting a skin-lightening effect.
Q. Is kojic acid safe during pregnancy?
Kojic acid has been reported to pose no risks to mothers or cause harm to the developing foetus. However, one should consult a healthcare provider or a dermatologist before starting any new skincare product during pregnancy.
Q. Can you use kojic acid with retinol?
Kojic acid can be used with retinol, but with caution and proper planning in your skincare routine to minimize potential irritation.
Buy high-purity Kojic Acid through Macsen Laboratories. For buying, send us an inquiry-