What Is Kojic Acid Peel?
Kojic acid is a naturally-derived ingredient. It comes from certain fungi, notably Aspergillus oryzae, often used in the Japanese food industry. But, due to this ingredient’s antimicrobial properties, it’s also used in the skincare industry.
It’s most well-known for its ability to inhibit the production of melanin, which is the pigment that’s responsible for our skin coloration.
So, because of its ability to really penetrate the layers of your skin and stop the production of melanin, kojic acid peel is usually advertised as a spot-fading treatment.
This characteristic is the main difference between kojic acid peel and other chemical peels because, unlike other acids that work by dissolving the bonds between the cells and exfoliating the skin, kojic acid works by inhibiting pigment production.
The concentration of kojic acid in the peel solution can vary depending on the individual’s skin type and the severity of the skin condition being treated, but it’s rarely used in high concentrations.
What Does Kojic Acid Peel Do for Skin?
Other than helping brighten and even out skin tone, kojic acid also has antioxidant, antimicrobial, and exfoliating properties. Plus it’s safe and well-tolerated on the face and body even by sensitive skin types, so it can be used by pretty much anyone.
Here are the most common skin conditions kojic acid skin peel is used for:
Kojic Peel for Hyperpigmentation
The main benefit of kojic peel is that it inhibits an enzyme necessary in the production of melanin, helping fade dark spots and even out skin tone.
This means kojic acid peel is very effective in fighting hyperpigmentation of any kind – sun damage, melasma, acne, hyperpigmentation triggered by hormonal changes, injury, or post-inflammatory pigmentation.
It can also help lighten dark pigmentation associated with certain types of scars, making them appear less noticeable.
Kojic Peel for Skin Brightening
By inhibiting melanin production, the peel helps brighten the skin, leading to a more luminous and even complexion. But this brightening effect is also used to treat discoloration on different body parts, mainly underarms, inner thighs, elbows, knees, etc.
Kojic Peel for Anti-Aging
Kojic acid peel stimulates collagen production, which helps improve the skin’s elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Plus, it makes the texture more even and visibility of pores is reduced, which makes you appear more youthful-looking. On top of that, the reduction of age spots also contributes to this treatment’s anti-aging effects.
Kojic Peel for Acne Control
Just like any other chemical peel, kojic peel also helps unclog pores, remove dead skin cells and debris, and get sebum production under control.
These characteristics help reduce the chances of acne breakouts and clear out any blemishes like black and whiteheads.
Plus, antibacterial properties are very helpful in treating acne as kojic acid skin peel also kills acne-feeding bacteria that are responsible for acne in the first place.
Kojic Peel for Treating Infections
Since kojic acid chemical peel also has antifungal and antibacterial properties, it can be helpful in treating certain fungal infections, such as athlete’s foot and yeast infections.
Kojic Acid Peel Limitations & Contraindications
While kojic acid peel can benefit many skin types, it may not be appropriate for individuals with certain conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis, active acne, or open wounds.
In such cases, the peel can cause further irritation and potentially worsen the condition.
Before undergoing a kojic acid peel, you should consult a dermatologist that’ll assess your skin’s condition and determine if the treatment is suitable for you.
Kojic Acid Peel Combinations with Other Ingredients
Kojic acid peel is often combined with other chemical peels, which helps enhance both their effects. It’s mostly a combination of AHA kojic peel, whether it be glycolic or lactic and kojic acid peel.
It also has the added benefit of working well when paired with other skin-lightening ingredients like hydroquinone, which is often prescribed by dermatologists to people who need prescription-strength lightening agents.
What Does Kojic Acid Chemical Peel Treatment Look Like?
The chemical peeling procedure generally involves a few steps:
- Step 1 is cleansing the area that’s about to be treated.
- Step 2 is prepping the skin with a pre-peel solution that’ll prime the skin to ensure even penetration of the kojic acid. This step also involves protecting the sensitive areas (around the eyes, nose and mouth), as well as applying numbing solution if the peel is deep (which aren’t that common).
- Step 3 is the actual application of the kojic peel, during which the technician is carefully monitoring your skin reaction. The solution is left on the skin for the appropriate amount of time that depends on each individual client.
- Step 4 is neutralizing the solution, to stop the acid’s action.
- Step 5 is soothing and protecting the skin post-peel, usually with a mask or thick moisturizer that promotes healing. After that, they’ll finish the procedure off by applying SPF to prevent UV rays from damaging new skin layers.
Kojic Acid Peel Results
It takes some time to see the full kojic acid peel results. The skin will need some time to fully heal, so for the first couple of days you will only spot peeling, flaking, and redness.
But after the damaged skin cells are shed, your skin will reveal a new, fresh, and undamaged layer underneath. This layer will immediately look brighter and overall improved both in tone and texture.
But it’s important to note that individual responses to kojic acid peel vary, and several sessions may be required to achieve optimal results.
The frequency of treatments depends on the individual’s skin sensitivity and goals, as well as the depth of the peel used. It’s generally recommended to start with lower concentrations and gradually increase intensity if tolerated well.
Kojic Acid Peel Recovery & Aftercare
Since this procedure is mostly done as a superficial peel, the downtime is minimal. Still, there are some rules you should abide by, to achieve the best possible results.
Post kojic chemical peel care entails:
- Keeping your skin moisturized and protected from the sun (regular SPF 30 reapplication)
- Gentle ingredients – no fragrance, or other irritants
- No abrasive scrubs or face-washes
- Minimalist skincare and no makeup, at least for the first 24-48
Is Kojic Acid Peel Safe? Risks + Side Effects
Generally speaking, kojic acid is better tolerated than most acids, but an allergy or irritation is still possible.
Side effects of kojic acid peel may manifest as a rash, itching, irritation, and burning, though these are uncommon with lower concentrations. Higher concentrations can, however, increase the likelihood of irritation.
Kojic acid peel may also increase the risk of sunburn as it reduces melanin production, which protects the skin from UV damage.
Treatments