Hydroquinone and kojic acid are often used in skin bleaching creams.
In the clinical studies, niacinamide significantly decreased hyperpigmentation and increased skin lightness compared with vehicle alone after 4 weeks of use. Conclusions: The data suggest niacinamide is an effective skin lightening compound that works by inhibiting melanosome transfer from melanocytes to keratinocytes.
Alpha Arbutin is beneficial for dark spots and melanin overproduction because it has fewer hazards than several whitening agents, such as Kojic Acid.
Glycolic acid won't lighten or whiten your skin tone because it isn't a skin-lightening (as in whitening) substance. However, glycolic acid does remove dark spots and hyperpigmentation, making it a secure element to balance out and brighten your skin.
If you are a skincare expert, you would know salicylic acid's skin lightening and brightening properties. It helps reduce the appearance of dark spots, blemishes, and hyperpigmentation on the skin.
Hyaluronic acid helps reduce and prevent dark spots and pigmentation. It prevents your skin from damage caused by the sun and other external aggressors such as dust, pollution and more by acting as a protective barrier to your skin.
A “frost” is common with Salicylic acid peels, Jessner's solutions, and other treatments containing salicylic acid. The skin turns white or “frosts” as it neutralizes. Frosting is a salt crystal residue on the surface of the skin and has nothing to do with what is occurring within the epidermis and dermis.
Salicylic acid may darken or discolor your skin if overused, so you may wish to use other cleansers when you do not need the power of salicylic acid.
If you want a good exfoliator, perhaps try a product that has glycolic acid in it. And finally, if you're looking to lighten discoloration, kojic acid may be helpful.
Glycolic acid
A multipurpose molecule, it works as an exfoliant, reduces pigmentation and builds up collagen in the skin. Though you will start noticing its effects within a few weeks, the real results kick in after 6-8 months of continuous usage.
Through its exfoliating action, lactic acid is used to swipe away dead skin cells, brighten complexion, lighten hyperpigmentation, and improve the appearance of fine lines. Different than other acids, it's also moisturizing, which is why you'll see it show up across skincare products.
Tranexamic acid (TXA) is commonly being used to reduce melanin synthesis in patients with melasma and also used as a raw material for functional whitening cosmetics, although its action mechanism is poorly understood.
Kojic acid
It reduces hyperpigmentation by inhibiting the production of free tyrosinase and is also a potent antioxidant. [15] Kojic acid (KA) is used at concentrations ranging from 1% to 4%.
Tartaric acid treats dark spots, acne scars, acne, melasma, hyperpigmentation, dry skin, sun-damaged skin, and fine lines.
Glycolic Acid - 3 to 10 minutes
This peel's particles are the smallest of all the acids, which allow it to penetrate quickly and deeply to unstick the glue that holds dead skin cells together.
Another study published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology found that Glycolic Acid was more effective at reducing the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation than a combination of Vitamin C and kojic acid. Dermatologist Dr. Sejal Shah also recommends glycolic acid for brightening the skin.
HOW DO YOU USE IT: The 20 percent glycolic acid face peel is mild solution that's suitable for all skin types, and both beginning and experienced peelers who would like to maintain their results from stronger peels. This peel can be left on for up to 10 minutes, depending on the depth you'd like to peel at.
You'll want to avoid using kojic acid on compromised skin. If you have a cut or any active acne spots, wait for them to heal up before you start treating any associated scarring. Allergies, irritation, and contact dermatitis.
Kojic acid can lead to contact dermatitis in some people, especially those with sensitive skin. Contact dermatitis can cause a rash, itching, and dry patches of skin. In severe cases, pain and blisters can develop. The concentration of kojic acid in creams, serums, and soaps may vary by manufacturer.
Kojic acid's properties allow it to be a bleaching agent when used in creams, gels, and other cosmetics. Kojic acid is similar to a chemical called hydroquinone. They are both effective treatments for hyperpigmentation.
Salicylic acid decreases postacne hyperpigmentation by its anti-inflammatory effects. Ahn and Kim[18] found salicylic acid to have a whitening effect on the skin as well. Mandelic acid also has a beneficial effect in improving skin pigmentation.
The solution is left on your skin for about three to five minutes. During this time you'll probably feel some mild burning or stinging.