Kojic acid is one of the most accessible ingredients out there for treating pimple scars and dark spots. It acts as a melanin inhibitor, blocking the enzyme that causes excess pigment on the skin. But the benefits don't stop there—kojic acid also has antioxidant properties that counteract sun damage, and some anti-inflammatory benefits that help improve your skin's appearance overall and give you a soft glow if used it correctly.
Here are products you can try to experience its complexion-boosting perks. If you have sensitive skin, best consult with a dermatologist first:
Kojie San Body Wash
P155, available online
Kojie San's kojic acid soaps are a local drugstore favorite, but they recently launched this body wash with similar benefits and the same star ingredient. It targets hyperpigmentation while keeping your body smooth and hydrated—perfect for anyone who finds a soap bar too intense for their skin type.
Belo Kojic Acid + Tranexamic Acid Cream SPF 30
P210, available online
Having kojic acid in your skincare routine makes you more susceptible to sun damage, so wearing SPF daily is a must. This lightweight body cream from Belo, for one, has SPF 30 plus a low concentration of kojic so you can get those tone-evening perks while staying protected from UV rays.
One Earth Organics Ultra Clarifying Rosehip Soap
P149, available online
For a deep cleanse, try this clarifying soap with rosehip oil, tea tree oil, and other plant extracts that can keep your complexion even. Unlike other kojic soaps, mixed into this bar is kojic dipalmitate, a more stable form of the acid that also helps treat hyperpigmentation.
Belo Prescriptives Tyrosinase Inhibitor 5%
P650, available online
Tyrosinase is an enzyme that contributes to the formation of excess melanin or dark spots. This cream from Belo fights that enzyme kojic acid, boosted with vitamin C and arbutin for more effective results. You can use as a spot treatment for all those stubborn discoloration and scars on the face and body.
VMV Hypoallergenics Illuminants+ Face, Hand, Body Lotion
P700-2590, available online
This hypoallergenic, fragrance-free moisturizer from VMV is packed with antioxidant ingredients like kojic acid, bearberry leaf, and vitamin C. It also mildly exfoliates with glycolic acid, helping reveal a smoother, even-toned complexion by pushing healthy cells to the skin's surface.
