Looking To Lighten Melasma Patches? Find A Product With This Ingredient In It

While many people use the term "dark spots" like an umbrella, there are actually a few different kinds. First, you have post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation that can come from blemishes or skin irritation. Then, you have sun spots that pop up as a result of UV damage (wear your sunscreen!).

Finally, we have melasma, which consists of dark patches commonly found on the face and chest; oftentimes, these begin to appear during pregnancy. 

Kojic acid is a fermentation byproduct that comes from several different types of fungi. This powerful ingredient is most known for its skin-lightening properties, as studies echo its ability to brighten skin and fade dark spots1. 

As mentioned previously, kojic acid has been shown to lighten hyperpigmentation and brighten the skin. Whether you're dealing with sun spots or post-inflammatory dark marks, this ingredient can encourage them to fade quicker.

Ultra-concentrated spot treatments may be great for sun spots or post-inflammatory marks, but when it comes to brightening melasma patches, there's something else needed entirely.

Kojic acid contains antioxidants as well, which can even enhance the depigmenting effect1. Antioxidants are free-radical fighters that combat oxidative stress in the skin.

Kojic acid is a stable compound that's nonirritating to the skin when used at the right concentration. According to Marcus, that should be right around 1%.

Clean cosmetic chemist and founder of KKT Consultants Krupa Koestline notes a slightly lower percentage. "Most recently the EU [European Union] has recommended a safe limit of 0.7% for kojic acid in topical products," Koestline said. This comes from the concerns surrounding endocrine disruption at a concentration above 0.7%, according to the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety. These are opinions from the SCCS as the studies on kojic acid concentration are limited, so keep that in mind.

While kojic acid is a generally well-tolerated ingredient, it's still acid at the end of the day. "For those with very sensitive skin, proceed with caution as kojic acid does have the potential to cause irritation and dryness, as with any acid," Marcus said. 

Kojic acid is a powerful yet well-tolerated skin brighter that works wonders for dark spots of all kinds. Whether you're looking to lighten sun spots, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, or even melasma—this ingredient has proven its ability to do just that. As with any acid, proceed with caution if you have sensitive skin, and be sure to avoid any broken or irritated skin.