Summer is a joy, but not always for our skin. As we spend more time in the sun, many of us will notice new dark spots, uneven tone, or even melasma, making hyperpigmentation one of the most common skincare concerns of the season. In Japan, kojic acid has long been used to address these issues with a gentler approach. This J-Beauty brightening hero, born from traditional fermentation practices, helps visibly reduce discoloration while maintaining the skin’s natural balance. Now, ALBION brings this time-honored ingredient to the U.S. in a high-performance formula: EXCIA BRIGHTENING Immaculate Serum Z, offering a mild yet effective way to restore and maintain radiant skin.
What Is Kojic Acid?
Kojic acid is a naturally occurring compound produced during the fermentation of rice and other foods using traditional Japanese techniques. Its name comes from the word “koji” (こうじ), which refers to the fermentation starter used in making miso, soy sauce, and sake. Certain types of mushrooms can also be natural sources of kojic acid.
The compound was first isolated in 1907 by Japanese microbiologist Kendo Saito. In 1912, chemist Teijiro Yabuta formally named it “kojic acid,” and by 1924, he had identified its molecular structure.
In Japan and other parts of Asia, kojic acid has long been tied to fermentation traditions. In sake breweries, workers handling koji-fermented rice often had visibly smooth, clear hands—an observation that sparked interest in the skin benefits of fermented byproducts.
Since then, kojic acid has gone global and even viral. Today, kojic acid is widely used in skincare, especially in J-Beauty, for its ability to visibly reduce discoloration and brighten the complexion.
What Helps With Hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation occurs when patches of skin become darker than the surrounding areas due to excess melanin, the pigment responsible for skin tone. If you notice persistent dark spots that don’t fade over time, or if pigmentation grows or darkens with seasonal changes, it may be time to take a closer look at the triggers and review your skincare routine.
Hyperpigmentation shows up in several forms:
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation: Often left behind after acne or irritation.
- Sunspots and age spots: Caused by sun damage accumulated over time. These are some of the most common types and appear in your 30s or 40s.
- Melasma: Larger patches of pigmentation typically triggered by hormonal changes such as pregnancy, perimenopause, or menopause.
A dermatologist can help with diagnosis, but there are many skincare ingredients that have shown promising results for reducing visible hyperpigmentation. These include vitamin C, niacinamide, azelaic acid, tranexamic acid, and kojic acid, as well as plant-derived ingredients like arbutin and licorice root extract.
These ingredients work through various mechanisms, such as inhibiting melanin production, reducing inflammation, and promoting cell turnover. They also vary in irritation risk. For example, some forms of vitamin C may not suit sensitive skin. Kojic acid, by contrast, is often well-tolerated and can be used alongside other active ingredients for additional benefits. As always, patch-testing is essential, especially for sensitive skin types.
What Are the Benefits of Kojic Acid for Skin?
Kojic acid is a naturally derived, melanin-inhibiting active ingredient that, compared to other skin-brightening active ingredients, is known for its gentleness. It addresses dark spots, uneven tone, and post-acne marks without the harshness of more aggressive treatments, making it a preferred option for gentle brightening.
Historically used as a food preservative and antioxidant in Japan, kojic acid is known for multiple benefits in skincare—it’s an antioxidant and it has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Its brightening effect comes from its ability to inhibit tyrosinase, an enzyme involved in melanin production.
When used consistently and in the right concentration, kojic acid can visibly soften discoloration, enhance radiance, and improve overall skin clarity. It’s a great skincare ingredient for those looking to reduce pigmentation caused by sun exposure, aging, or blemishes, especially when paired with hydrating, calming ingredients.
Does Kojic Acid Have Any Side Effects?
Kojic acid is generally safe when used appropriately, but like all active ingredients, it can cause side effects in some individuals. Most commonly, those with sensitive skin may experience mild irritation, especially when layering kojic acid with stronger exfoliants or retinoids.
Because it reduces melanin production, kojic acid can also make your skin more vulnerable to sun damage. Daily sun protection is a must when using products containing kojic acid.
General expert advice is that kojic acid is safe for cosmetic use at concentrations up to 1%. As always, start slowly, observe how your skin responds, and consult with a dermatologist if you have any concerns or have a compromised skin barrier (kojic acid is not recommended for use by those who have eczema or rosacea).
What Is EXCIA BRIGHTENING Immaculate Serum Z?
ALBION’s newest launch in the U.S., EXCIA BRIGHTENING Immaculate Serum Z, is already a cult favorite in Japan. This high-performance serum is designed to work as a 28-day intensive brightening regimen, aligning with the skin’s natural renewal cycle.
At the heart of the formula is Kojic Acid EX, a refined and potent form of kojic acid. Paired with a brightening botanical complex featuring Ashitaba, Meadowsweet, Robert’s Geranium, Star Fruit, Red Wine Yeast, and Apple, these ingredients visibly improve tone and promote a radiant, even-looking complexion.
The Immaculate EXD Delivery System optimizes absorption, while the silky gel-like texture melts into the skin, delivering deep hydration and leaving it soft, smooth, and plump.
Immaculate Serum Z is gentle enough to be used with retinoids and chemical exfoliants, and it’s safe for use during pregnancy and nursing. For best results, use consistently. Visit our Instagram to watch our beauty ambassador’s step-by-step guide to using the serum.
When Can You Expect to See Results?
As with all nature-inspired and gentle formulations, kojic acid delivers results over time. Visible improvements usually appear between 4 to 8 weeks, depending on skin type, lifestyle, and consistency of use.
In an ALBION study of 32 women over 4 weeks, participants reported:
- 93.8% felt their skin appeared more radiant.
- 90.6% noticed their dark spots looked less visible.
These results became even more noticeable after 8 weeks of continuous use. Like most brightening active ingredients, kojic acid needs to be used regularly to maintain results; once discontinued, its effects may gradually fade.
Brighten Up with Our Exclusive Offer
Enjoy our refreshing offer, just in time for summer! From June 9 to 16, 2025, spend $50 or more and receive a complimentary 55ml bottle of Skin Conditioner Essential N (a $17.50 value).
Apply Skin Conditioner as step 3 in your ALBION 4-Step Skincare Ritual—before EXCIA BRIGHTENING Immaculate Serum Z, or consider gifting it to a skincare-curious dad this Father’s Day. It’s great for soothing post-shave irritation and controlling oil.
