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Tone-evening brightener

Kojic Acid

Helps lighten the look of pigmentation and even out skin tone.

Kojic Acid gel in a petri dish: lightens pigmentation and evens skin tone

What it is

Kojic acid is derived from fungi and from the fermentation of certain foods. In skincare it is used to interrupt the process that makes patches of skin look darker than the skin around them.

What it's used for

  • Softening the appearance of dark patches
  • Helping overall tone look more even
  • Working alongside other brightening ingredients

Who it suits

People whose main concern is uneven tone or long-standing dark patches.

Appears in our routines for

Things worth knowing

  • Patch test first — kojic acid can be sensitising for some people.
  • Daily sunscreen is essential; sun exposure works directly against it.
  • Results with any brightening ingredient are gradual, not immediate.

This is general guidance, not personal advice. If you are unsure whether an ingredient suits you, a Skin Check puts it in front of a Skinwise expert.

Where it fits in a routine

Typically an evening step, followed by moisturiser.

Concerns it relates to

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Other ingredients