Is it OK to use Kojic Acid and Azelaic Acid?
When it comes to skincare ingredients, there are some that are so popular that it seems like everyone is using them every day. On the other hand, there are some active ingredients that are hiding in the beauty industry but are not yet well known or well-known. Today’s blog post focuses on two underdogs: Azelaic Acid and Kojic Acid. What exactly do these ingredients do for the skin and how can they be used together?
In the next section, we will explain the benefits of these ingredients and how to effectively incorporate them into your daily skincare routine.
What is Kojic Acid?
Kojic acid is one of the lesser-known chemical peels in the AHA family. It is a byproduct of various mushrooms and fermented foods such as soy sauce, rice wine, and sake. It has the ability to block tyrosine, which is responsible for the production of melanin. This makes kojic acid one of the most effective bleaching and whitening acids. Those who are concerned about sun damage, age spots, hyperpigmentation, and melasma areas. You will find that kojic acid is also an effective ingredient in fighting breakouts and acne due to its antibacterial properties. Kojic acid is very effective for fighting acne and hyperpigmentation, but you may find that it causes increased skin irritation, especially if you have a dry, sensitive skin type. Due to its high potency, kojic acid is available in a variety of formulas at concentrations of 1% or less. Such a high percentage means that this active ingredient works effectively when applied to the skin (primarily the hands and face) occasionally for a short period of time. Depending on the product formulation will determine how kojic acid is applied to the skin. Certain formulations such as soaps, cleansers, and face washes contain effective amounts of the acid, which should be rinsed off the skin immediately. Kojic acid has limited effectiveness in products that are left on the skin for a long time, as it is poorly absorbed into the lower layers of the skin.
If you want to learn more about kojic acid, here are some important facts about it that you can learn from beauty insiders.
What is Azelaic Acid?
Often confused with AHAs, this dicarboxylic acid is derived from grains such as barley, wheat, and rye. With antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, azelaic acid is an active ingredient for fighting acne, uneven skin texture, hyperpigmentation, and more.
Azelaic acid dissolves the top layer of skin as well as accumulated dead skin cells, dirt, bacteria, and other impurities. All of these can lead to skin imperfections like blackheads, flaky patches, and premature signs of aging, which in turn can be exacerbated by making fine lines and wrinkles more visible.
Azelaic acid is considered one of the gentlest acids and can be used effectively by people with sensitive skin. Azelaic acid also has unique properties that make it particularly effective for people with darker skin tones. The strong acid fights pigmentation on dark or dark skin without the added risk of sensitivity and irritation. For more information on azelaic acid, visit Beauty Insider where we have a blog post on the benefits of azelaic acid, what it does for the skin, and the best ingredients to use with it. Can kojic acid and azelaic acid be used together? Yes, but only if they are applied to the skin correctly. Both acids have similar pH levels, with the more acidic acid altering the skin’s natural pH, causing irritation and weakening the skin barrier, which can lead to skin damage. Kojic acid and azelaic acid are used differently. Here are examples of effective combinations. Wait about 30 minutes between applications. If you stick to this schedule, your skin and pH levels can stabilize and avoid unwanted side effects or irritation. Ideally, I recommend using both acids in the evening, as this reduces further damage from exposure to free radicals (such as UV rays), pollution and bad weather are limited.
Alternate the days for each acid
Alternating the use of the acids throughout the day will give you the best results without the risk of irritation. Again, I recommend applying the acids to your skin in the evening to provide peace of mind and prevent increased itching and irritation.
Use them at different times of the day
Instead of alternating appointments, you can use the acids at different times of the day. Start using azelaic acid in your morning routine, and don’t forget to apply sunscreen for extra protection. This means the weak acids can last all day long and have a skin-enhancing effect. You can then apply kojic acid in the evening, which is more effective but more likely to cause irritation when exposed to UV radiation.
As with all skincare ingredients, it’s important to make sure your skin benefits from the new additions to your routine. Therefore, it’s important to consult your doctor or dermatologist before using any new ingredients or formulas.
Is Kojic Acid an AHA?
Yes, it does, although it’s not as well-known as glycolic or lactic acid. Kojic acid works on the surface of the skin to remove dead skin cells, dirt, and debris. In this way, new, vibrant skin emerges, the complexion appears radiant and healthy, and the skin barrier is strengthened to protect the skin from further damage. It also penetrates the subcutaneous layer to remove excess sebum and bacterial buildup from the pores, helping to maintain the clarity and overall health of the complexion.
The last property of kojic acid is that it inhibits the overproduction of melanin by amino acids, which can cause darkening and hyperpigmentation of melasma. Kojic acid is a powerful whitening ingredient, but it can cause increased irritation, especially after a chemical peel on the surface of the skin. As I stressed before, it’s important to wear SPF sunscreen every day for extra protection from the sun.
There you can find more information about the lesser-known acid and its benefits for your skin. If you have any more questions, feel free to contact us via Instagram.
