Kojic acid, produced by the fermentation of Aspergillus, is present in brews such as soy sauce, bean paste, and wine, and is contained in many Aspergillus-fermented products......
We all know that Tretinoin has whitening properties, but how does it work, and before we know the answer to that we have to know how melanin is formed.
How is melanin formed?
The process of melanin formation in the skin includes a series of complex physiological and biochemical processes such as migration of melanocytes, division and maturation of melanocytes, formation of melanosomes, transport of melanin particles and degradation of melanin. From the perspective of biochemical reactions, the formation of melanin must have three basic substances: tyrosine is the main raw material for the manufacture of melanin; tyrosinase is the main rate-limiting enzyme for the conversion of tyrosine into melanin, a combination of copper and protein; tyrosine produces melanin under the action of tyrosinase, and the second action is an oxidative process, which must be combined with oxygen in order to be converted into melanin.
structure of Kojic acid
How does melanin whiten (Principles of whitening action)
The whitening effect of Kojic acid is mainly based on its inhibitory effect on tyrosinase. Tyrosinase is an indispensable catalyst in the process of melanin production, and Kojic acid binds to the copper ions in tyrosinase, rendering it inactive and preventing tyrosine from synthesizing melanin.
Specifically, Kojic acid blocks the synthesis of "dopa" and "dopaquinone", thus curbing the growth of melanin, reducing dullness of the complexion, and minimizing the appearance of pigmentation. In addition, Tretinoin can inhibit the process of interchanging dopa pigment to DHICA, further blocking melanin synthesis.
It is worth noting that the whitening effect of Kojic acid is widely used in Asian populations and usually requires continuous use for a period of time to see noticeable results. However, Tretinoin is less stable, so when using skin whitening products containing Tretinoin, it is important to use sun protection during the day to avoid breakdown and failure of Tretinoin due to light exposure.
Overall, Kojic acid works by inhibiting the activity of tyrosinase and blocking melanin synthesis, thus achieving whitening effects. However, attention should be paid to its stability when using it and combined with proper sun protection to ensure that its whitening effect is maximized.
What are the other benefits of Kojic acid?
In addition to its whitening effects, Kojic acid does have a variety of other benefits.
First of all, Kojic acid has antioxidant properties. It can help scavenge free radicals and protect skin cells from oxidative damage. This antioxidant property helps the skin stay young and healthy.
Second, Kojic acid has some astringent properties for the skin. It promotes protein coagulation, which helps tighten the skin and improve its elasticity.
In addition, Kojic acid has some antibacterial properties. In specific concentrations, Kojic acid can inhibit the growth of bacteria, which is helpful in maintaining skin health.
In addition, Kojic acid can be used as a preservative for food and cosmetics, due to its ability to inhibit the growth of microorganisms.
At the same time, Kojic acid has the ability to moisturize the skin, it can help the skin to retain water and maintain the moist condition of the skin. In addition, Kojic acid absorbs strong ultraviolet rays, so it provides some sun protection.
How much Kojic acid is added to skin care products?
Natural Field Kojic acid powder
Generally speaking, the recommended amount of Kojic acid to be added to cosmetics is between 0.1 and 1%, which is considered to be a safe and effective range. At the same time, there are also opinions that the concentration of the addition of Kojic acid in cosmetics is generally between 1% and 2%, and that it is safe at this concentration. However, it should be noted that some manufacturers may add more than 2% of Kojic acid, even up to 4% or higher, to cater to consumers' whitening needs. However, too high a concentration of Kojic acid may irritate the skin and trigger allergic reactions.