PLDEFRESITJęzyk: polski
INCI name

KOJIC ACID

Kojic acid

AntioxidantBleachingreviewed

A fungal metabolite used as an antioxidant and bleaching agent, regulated in Annex III.

What it is

Kojic acid (5-hydroxy-2-hydroxymethyl-4-pyrone) is a heterocyclic compound produced by several fungi, including Aspergillus species used in fermentation. CosIng lists it as an antioxidant and bleaching agent. In the EU it is covered by an entry in Annex III (substances subject to restrictions).

Where it is used

Found in serums, creams, soaps and masks, often in products marketed for uneven skin tone.

Limits of interpretation

The INCI list shows which ingredients are present, not how much of each. Above 1%, ingredients are listed in descending order of weight; below 1% the order is free.

See the EU regulation section for the applicable limits and the product types to which they apply. The label does not show the concentration actually used.

Functions

Antioxidant
Inhibiting reactions promoted by oxygen, thus avoiding oxidation and rancidity.
Bleaching
Bleaching or lightening the shade of hair and/or skin.

EU regulation

EU · Annex III, entry 3755-Hydroxy-2-(hydroxymethyl)-4H-pyrane-4-one
Product type
Face and hand products
Maximum concentration
1 %
As of
3 November 2026 · (EU) 2024/996

Safety Gate alerts (EU)

17 alerts about dangerous cosmetics in the EU mention this substance. An alert concerns a specific product, usually one that breaks EU rules.

See all alerts →

Scientific opinions (SCCS)

Opinions of the EU Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety that mention this ingredient. They assess specific uses and concentrations; read the opinion for its scope.

Products with this ingredient (16)

Check a full ingredient list