Kojic Acid Kojic Acid
Kojic acid is produced by fermentation with Aspergillus oryzae fungi. It limits the activity of tyrosinase, which evens out skin tone and reduces the look of discoloration, and it has an antioxidant action. Used in the Illustrious line, among others.
Brightening2% kojic acid: 50% reduction in melasma over 12 weeks (Garcia & Fulton, 1996, n=29). Efficacy comparable to 2% hydroquinone with a better safety profile.
It chelates copper at the active site of tyrosinase, inhibiting the key enzyme of melanogenesis. It also acts as an antioxidant (scavenging ROS), preventing the fixation of hyperpigmentation.




















