Kojic Acid for Melasma and Age Spots

Melasma often appears as fairly even brown or grey-brown patches, commonly on the cheeks, forehead, upper lip, or jaw. Age spots are usually distinct areas of sun-related pigment. Their appearance can overlap with other conditions, so an examination may be needed before treating a mark.

Kojic acid interferes with steps involved in melanin production. It may soften the contrast between a patch and surrounding skin over time, but it does not remove the triggers that can reactivate pigment. Heat, daylight, hormonal changes, and skin irritation can all make melasma more difficult to control.

Use a clinician-recommended formulation on clean, dry skin and introduce it slowly. Apply moisturiser to support the barrier, avoid rubbing or picking the area, and do not combine multiple strong exfoliating or brightening products without guidance.

Broad-spectrum sun protection, shade, and a hat help limit renewed darkening; reapply the product as directed when outdoors. Stop and get advice if redness, burning, scaling, or worsening colour follows use. A dermatologist can discuss prescription options or procedures when topical care is insufficient. Read more about [Kojic Acid](/materials/kojic-acid/) and [Skin Brightening Treatment](/treatments/aesthetic-procedures/skin-brightening-treatment/).

Have a spot assessed if it is new, rapidly changing, irregular, very dark compared with nearby marks, bleeding, crusted, tender, or not behaving like your other pigmentation. Seek advice before self-treating pigment that appeared during pregnancy, after a medicine change, or with significant inflammation.

Ask whether the patch is melasma, an age spot, or another lesion; what strength and schedule suit your skin; how to combine treatment with sun protection; and what signs mean the routine should be stopped.