Sunspots are one of the most common signs of aging, but there are plenty of ways to combat them with the right ingredients. Hyperpigmentation is the darkening of the skin due to an overaccumulation or uneven distribution of melanin, resulting in spotting on the skin. This can be caused by sun exposure, hormones, medication, skin trauma and even acne. To address dark spots, use products that inhibit melanin formation and exfoliate to brighten and target existing pigmented areas. One hyperpigmentation skincare ingredient we love is kojic acid, because of its ability to brighten the complexion in a gentle way.

What is Kojic Acid + How Does it Work?

Kojic acid is a safe and effective skin brightener that absorbs into the skin and stops melanin production by inhibiting tyrosinase, an enzyme that plays a key role in the production of melanin. This makes it ideal for targeting melasma, acne scars and other dark spots.

Where Does Kojic Acid Come From?

Kojic Acid found in skincare products is most commonly derived from fungi during fermentation. It is also found in soy, rice and other grains.

Where Can I Find Kojic Acid?

Kojic Acid can be found in Brightening Polish, Beta-Clarity AHA Clarifying Peel, Beta-Clarity Pro 5 Liquid Exfoliant, and Hydra-Bright AHA Glow Peel. Each of these products can be added to a skincare ritual for those who are concerned with hyperpigmentation or have skin in need of brightening.

Use Brightening Polish up to five times per week. Massage a small amount onto damp skin after cleansing, then rinse and follow with your serum.

Add Beta-Clarity Pro 5 Liquid Exfoliant to your skincare ritual up to three times weekly. Powered by salicylic acid, it’s also great for decongesting pores and treating breakouts too.

Our peel treatments Beta-Clarity AHA Clarifying Peel and Hydra-Bright AHA Glow Peel both use kojic acid and can be performed on a monthly basis to supplement your daily and weekly rituals. Beta-Clarity AHA Clarifying Peel is a level 2 balancing and breakout-targeting peel, while Hydra-Bright AHA Glow Peel delivers instant brightening and is suitable for all skin types.

Be sure to wear an SPF of at least 30 daily, especially while treating hyperpigmentation.

Want to learn more about how peels can help with hyperpigmentation? Discover our peels finder guide.