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| Catalog Number | CI-SC-0562 |
| Product Name | Kojic Acid |
| CAS | 501-30-4 |
| Structure |  |
| Synonyms | Pyran-4-one, 5-hydroxy-2-(hydroxymethyl) |
| Description | Kojic acid (5-hydroxy-2-hydroxymethyl-4-pyrone) is a by-product in the fermentation process of malting rice. Mild inhibitor of the formation of pigment in plant and animal tissues. |
| IUPAC Name | 5-Hydroxy-2-(hydroxymethyl)pyran-4-one |
| Molecular Weight | 142.11 g/mol |
| Molecular Formula | C6H6O4 |
| Canonical SMILES | C1=C(OC=C(C1=O)O)CO |
| InChI | InChI=1S/C6H6O4/c7-2-4-1-5(8)6(9)3-10-4/h1,3,7,9H,2H2 |
| InChI Key | BEJNERDRQOWKJM-UHFFFAOYSA-N |
| Boiling Point | 179.65 °C |
| Melting Point | 152-155 °C(lit.) |
| Flash Point | 179.9 °C |
| Purity | 98% |
| Density | 1.1712 g/mL |
| Solubility | Soluble in water, acetone, slightly solluble in ether, insoluble in benzene |
| Appearance | Solid |
| Application | All kinds of skin-lightening products including lotions, creams, fluids, makeup products. |
| Storage | Store below +30 °C |
| Composition | Kojic acid |
| Features And Benefits | Skin-lightening effect by inhibiting melanin formationPromotes skin lightening and helps establishing an even skin tone on all skin typesMinimizes liver spotsOften used also to preserve or stabilize colors in cosmetic productsCan enhance shelf life through its preservative actions against chemical and microbial degradation |
| GMO | GMONo data available |
| HS Code | 3202100000 |
| INCI | Kojic acid |
| Manufacture | Kojic acid is produced by fungus fermentation (mostly Aspergillus species) of various sugars. |
| Preservation | Preservative-free |
| Purity Grade | No purity grade applicable |
| Raw Material Source | Sugars obtained from corn starch or rice |
| Refractive Index | 1.4434 |
| Topological Polar Surface Area | 66.8 Ų |
| Uses | Recommended concentration 1-3%. Add to warm (25-40°C/77-104°F) water phase of formula. It can oxidize and lose some of its activity if put into hot water (>40°C/104°F). Can be combined with other skin lighteners. Kojic acid has tendency to oxidize over time; add vitamin E tocopherol or BHT to a formula to reduce oxidation. For external use only. |
Kojic acid, chemically known as 5-hydroxy-2-hydroxymethyl-4-pyrone, is derived from various species of fungi, notably Aspergillus oryzae, in the fermentation process of sake production. This compound, recognized for its chelating properties, functions as an effective inhibitor of pigment formation, enabling its widespread use in both the food and cosmetics industries. In the realm of personal care, kojic acid is prized for its skin-lightening properties, often incorporated into products such as cleansers, lotions, masks, and creams. It effectively addresses issues like freckles, discolorations, and dark spots by reducing melanin production, binding to colored substances, and exfoliating pigmented keratinocytes from the skin's surface. Additionally, it is employed in addressing conditions like melasma and is even found in some toothpaste formulations for its tooth-whitening effects.
What is kojic acid?
Kojic acid is a chemical produced from different types of fungi and is a by-product of fermented soy sauce and rice wine.
What are the possible benefits of kojic acid?
The possible benefits of kojic acid include treating melasma, reducing the appearance of scars, and lightening the skin.
How does kojic acid work as a lightening agent?
Kojic acid works by blocking the formation of tyrosine, which is needed for melanin production. This decreased melanin production can have a lightening effect on the skin.
What forms can kojic acid be found in?
Kojic acid can be found in various cosmetic formulations, including powders, serums, masks, creams, cleansers, and soaps.
Is kojic acid safe for all skin types?
According to experts, kojic acid is safe for most skin types. It is particularly beneficial for those seeking to improve discoloration caused by sun damage, melasma, or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
What are the potential side effects of kojic acid?
Potential side effects of kojic acid may include a red rash, itching, irritation, and burning, although these are typically uncommon when using lower concentrations of the ingredient.
How should kojic acid be used?
For individuals with sensitive skin, it is recommended to start using kojic acid-based products once or twice per week to ensure tolerance. It is also important to use sunscreen daily as kojic acid may make the skin more susceptible to the sun.
What are some alternative ingredients to kojic acid for fading hyperpigmentation?
Some alternative ingredients include glycolic acid, retinol, hydroquinone, arbutin, and vitamin C.
What are the antifungal benefits of kojic acid?
Kojic acid is thought to have some antifungal benefits and may be helpful in preventing and treating certain fungal infections such as athlete's foot and yeast infections.
Does kojic acid provide antibacterial benefits?
Yes, kojic acid may provide antibacterial benefits and help decrease the chances of developing common types of bacterial skin infections.
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