Vitamin C, licorice root and kojic acid: what to know

Vitamin C provides antioxidant support and may help brighten dull or uneven skin. Licorice root extracts are used in some formulas to calm the appearance of discoloration. Kojic acid targets pathways involved in melanin production and is often chosen for dark spots. These ingredients do not explain every change in skin colour: melasma, inflammation, medicines, and other conditions can look similar. A clinician can identify the pattern before treatment.

Introduce one new product at a time and patch-test as directed. Use a bland moisturiser and broad-spectrum sunscreen, because ultraviolet and visible light can maintain pigmentation. Avoid applying several strong brightening or exfoliating products together unless a clinician has planned the combination. Follow the label, keep products stored as instructed, and stop if burning, cracking, swelling, or a persistent rash appears. A Skin Brightening Treatment should be tailored to the cause and skin tone.

Seek assessment for a pigmented spot that is new, changing, irregular, bleeding, or not healing. Arrange care if discoloration spreads rapidly, becomes painful, or follows a severe reaction. Persistent darkening after irritation may need treatment adjustment; do not keep escalating products on your own.

Ask which ingredient is most appropriate for your pattern of pigmentation, whether Kojic Acid is suitable for your skin, how to combine products safely, and when a diagnosis should be reconsidered.