Solubility Soluble in ethanol, ethyl ether, acetone, DMSO; slightly soluble in benzene
Formula
C6H6O4
Mol. Weight
142.11
CAS #
501-30-4
Form
Liquid
State
Solid
Functions
Antioxidant
Fights free radicals — the unstable molecules from UV, pollution, and stress that break down collagen and cause premature aging.
Evens pigmentation
Brightens uneven skin tone
Traditional Use
Kojic acid was discovered in 1912 as a byproduct of sake (Japanese rice wine) fermentation. It has been used since the 1960s in East Asian skincare, particularly Japan, as a skin-brightening and tyrosinase-inhibiting agent for treating hyperpigmentation.
EWG
7
CIR
Insufficient data
Pregnancy
Caution
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
all-shades-safe
Concentration Guide
1.0%
0%1%
Reg. Limit
EU/SCCS limit: 1% in cosmetic products. Opinion: SCCS/1637/21