Kojic acid (inci)

Author:Prof. Dr. med. Peter Altmeyer

All authors of this article

Last updated on: 29.10.2020

Dieser Artikel auf Deutsch

Synonym(s)

5-hydroxy-2-hydroxymethyl-4-pyrone; CAS: 501-30-4; Koji acid; Kojic acid

Requires free registration (medical professionals only)

Please login to access all articles, images, and functions.

Our content is available exclusively to medical professionals. If you have already registered, please login. If you haven't, you can register for free (medical professionals only).


Requires free registration (medical professionals only)

Please complete your registration to access all articles and images.

To gain access, you must complete your registration. You either haven't confirmed your e-mail address or we still need proof that you are a member of the medical profession.

Finish your registration now

DefinitionThis section has been translated automatically.

Kojic acid is a herbal agent used in cosmetic formulations. Kojic acid is a metabolic product of Aspergillus species used in the fermentation of malted rice used in the production of sake (rice mould - Aspergillus oryzaea = Japanese Koji).

Koji acid has the molecular formula C6H6O4 , consists of yellowish crystals and has a caramel-like odor. The substance is easily soluble in water and ethanol but insoluble in acetone. Kojic acid forms coloured, poorly soluble chelate complexes with some heavy metal ions (Fe3+, Cu2+, Zn2+).

EffectsThis section has been translated automatically.

The substance acts as an antioxidant (inhibits reactions promoted by oxygen, thus preventing oxidation and rancidity of ingredients). Furthermore, Kojo acid has an inhibiting effect on melanin formation (tyrosinase inhibitors). Preparations with koijic acid are widely used in Asian countries to lighten the skin. They are prohibited in Switzerland.

Note(s)This section has been translated automatically.

Alternative active ingredients which serve to "lighten the skin" are: arbutin, hydroquinone, azelaic acid, vitamin C, niacinamide, mulberry extracts (also containing arbutin), liquorice root extracts (see Liquiritiae radix).

LiteratureThis section has been translated automatically.

  1. Kim AJ et al (2012) Metabolomics-based optimal koji fermentation for tyrosinase inhibition supplemented with Astragalus radix. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem 76:863-869.

Authors

Last updated on: 29.10.2020