Kojic Acid

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Kojic Acid is a naturally derived organic compound produced by certain species of fungi, commonly Aspergillus and Penicillium. It appears as a white to light yellow crystalline powder with a slightly acidic taste and is highly soluble in water and alcohol. Kojic Acid is primarily used in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries for its skin-lightening and antioxidant properties. It inhibits melanin production by blocking the enzyme tyrosinase, making it a key ingredient in formulations aimed at reducing hyperpigmentation, age spots, and uneven skin tone.

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Category: Active Ingredient Tags: Anti-Pigmentation Compound, Cosmetic ingredients, Kojic Acid, Natural Whitening Ingredient, Skin Lightening Agent

Description

Table of Contents

Kojic Acid

Primary Uses

Cosmetic and Personal Care

Skin Lightening Agent: Incorporated in creams, lotions, serums, and soaps to reduce melanin synthesis and lighten dark spots, freckles, and pigmentation disorders.
Anti-Aging: Acts as an antioxidant to combat free radicals, protecting the skin from oxidative damage and premature aging.
Hyperpigmentation Treatment: Used in formulations targeting melasma, sun spots, and other pigment-related skin conditions.

Pharmaceutical Industry

Topical Preparations: Included in medicated creams and gels for skin depigmentation therapies under dermatological supervision.

Food Industry

Food Additive: Occasionally used as a natural preservative or antioxidant in food products to prevent discoloration and spoilage.

Secondary Uses

Industrial Applications

Used in certain biochemical assays and research as an inhibitor of tyrosinase enzyme for studying melanin synthesis pathways.

Agriculture

Investigated as a potential natural fungicide due to its antimicrobial properties against some plant pathogens.

Cosmetic Raw Material

Used as a precursor or intermediate in the synthesis of other skin-related active ingredients.

KEY PRODUCT FEATURES

1. Basic Identification Attributes

Chemical Name (IUPAC): 5-Hydroxy-2-(hydroxymethyl)-4H-pyran-4-one
Common/Trade Name: Kojic Acid
CAS Number: 501-30-4
HS Code: 2932.99.90
Synonyms: 5-Hydroxy-2-(hydroxymethyl)-4-pyrone; Kojic acid powder; Kojic acid monohydrate

2. Physical & Chemical Properties

Physical State: Crystalline powder
Color & Odor: White to light yellow; odorless or faintly musty
Melting Point: 152–154 °C
Solubility: Soluble in water, ethanol, and propylene glycol; slightly soluble in ether
pH: Slightly acidic in aqueous solution

3. Safety & Hazard Attributes

GHS Classification: Not classified as hazardous under normal handling
Toxicity: Low toxicity; may cause skin sensitization in sensitive individuals
Exposure Limits: No specific occupational exposure limits established

4. Storage & Handling Attributes

Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and moisture
Container Type: Sealed plastic or glass containers with airtight lids
Shelf Life: Typically 2–3 years if stored properly
Handling Precautions: Avoid inhalation of dust and prolonged skin contact

5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes

Approved for use in cosmetics by regulatory bodies such as FDA and EU Cosmetic Regulation (with concentration limits)
Complies with relevant food safety regulations when used as a food additive
Labeling must indicate possible skin sensitization risk where applicable

6. Environmental & Health Impact

Biodegradability: Biodegradable under aerobic conditions
Ecotoxicity: Low toxicity to aquatic organisms at typical use concentrations
Bioaccumulation: Not expected to bioaccumulate
Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic or mutagenic

SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS

Safety Handling Precautions

PPE Required: Use gloves and dust mask when handling powder to avoid inhalation and skin exposure
Handling Guidelines: Use in well-ventilated areas and avoid creating dust clouds
Storage Measures: Keep container tightly closed and protect from moisture

First Aid Measures

Inhalation: Move to fresh air; if irritation occurs, seek medical attention
Skin Contact: Wash thoroughly with soap and water; discontinue use if irritation or rash develops
Eye Contact: Rinse eyes with water for at least 15 minutes; seek medical advice if irritation persists
Ingestion: Rinse mouth; seek medical attention if discomfort or adverse effects occur

Firefighting Measures

Fire Hazards: Non-flammable under normal conditions
Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, foam, or dry chemical extinguishers for surrounding fires
Special Precautions: Avoid inhaling smoke or combustion products
Hazardous Combustion Products: May produce carbon oxides and other irritant fumes upon burning