a traditional brightener from fermented rice - effective on dark marks, but pushier than arbutin.
What it actually does: another tyrosinase inhibitor, derived from fungi. Fades hyperpigmentation and sun damage; also mildly antibacterial.
Who it’s for: stubborn marks that shrugged at gentler options. Less ideal for sensitive skin - kojic acid causes contact irritation more often than arbutin or niacinamide.
How to use it: typically 1–2% in serums or the classic kojic soaps.
Honest expectations: two to three months, alongside sunscreen. Irritation \= stop; on brown skin, an irritant brightener can leave you darker than you started.
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The BYOUT Library is educational content, not personalised medical advice. For persistent or severe skin concerns, a dermatologist beats any article, including ours.