A woman's skin is an ocean of secrets
BEAUTY
Is It Okay To Mix Retinol And Kojic Acid?
By LESLIE LEON
Kojic acid is an effective antioxidant that helps with hyperpigmentation, and when mixed with other skincare ingredients, it can be even more powerful. If you’re thinking about pairing kojic acid with retinol, you definitely should, as not only are they safe to mix, they are also suggested for quickly repairing discoloration.
Retinols reach deep into the skin to help regenerate collagen and cell production, while kojic acid inhibits tyrosinase — the enzyme behind melanin production. Dermatologist Dr. Parul Khot recommends a concentration of “1-2% [as] the starter limit for first-time users,” applied “twice a day, followed by sunscreen, mandatorily.”
Since both retinol and kojic acid help fade hyperpigmentation and work by inhibiting melanin, you want to ensure you have significant protection against the sun. “[Sunscreen] is especially important with kojic acid, as there is a risk of sunburn and skin sensitivity,” says Dr. Parisha Acharya, an aesthetic doctor at Waterhouse Young.