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.

Description

Kojic Acid

Primary Uses 

  1. 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.
  1. Pharmaceutical Industry
  • Topical Preparations: Included in medicated creams and gels for skin depigmentation therapies under dermatological supervision.
  1. Food Industry
  • Food Additive: Occasionally used as a natural preservative or antioxidant in food products to prevent discoloration and spoilage.

Secondary Uses

  1. Industrial Applications
  • Used in certain biochemical assays and research as an inhibitor of tyrosinase enzyme for studying melanin synthesis pathways.
  1. Agriculture
  • Investigated as a potential natural fungicide due to its antimicrobial properties against some plant pathogens.
  1. 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