How Does the Combination of Kojic Acid & Licorice Extract Work in a Skin Lightening Serum?

In today’s fast-evolving skincare world, more people are turning to ingredients with science-backed efficacy for fading dark spots, evening out skin tone, and restoring radiance. Among the top contenders in the skin-lightening space are kojic acid and liquorice extract, two natural powerhouses proven to reduce hyperpigmentation and brighten the skin effectively.

But what makes them such a dynamic duo in skin-lightening serums? And how do they work synergistically to enhance your complexion safely? In this blog, we explore the science behind this combination, focusing on First Lady London’s highly effective lightning serums that blend kojic acid and liquorice extract with additional brightening ingredients, including lactic acid, papaya, carrot, and aloe vera.

Understanding Hyperpigmentation and Skin Discolouration

Hyperpigmentation occurs when melanin, the pigment responsible for skin colour, ur is produced in excess. This can result from sun exposure, inflammation, acne, or hormonal changes. Uneven pigmentation often appears as age spots, melasma, or post-inflammatory marks.

To effectively treat it, dermatologists recommend ingredients that inhibit tyrosinase, the enzyme responsible for melanin production. This is where kojic acid and liquorice extract shine.

Kojic Acid: A Natural Brightener from Fermentation

Kojic acid is a by-product of certain types of fungal fermentation, especially from the Aspergillus species. It works by inhibiting tyrosinase activity, slowing down melanin production and helping reduce the appearance of dark patches and discolouration.

Key Benefits of Kojic Acid:

1. Inhibits the formation of melanin
2. Lightens sun damage and acne scars
3. Fades age spots and melasma
4. Antioxidant properties to reduce oxidative stress
5. Works well with lactic acid for better absorption

Research published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology confirms that kojic acid is effective in treating melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation when applied topically at concentrations ranging from 1% to 4%.

Liquorice Extract: Soothing Brightener with Anti-Inflammatory Power

Liquorice extract, derived from the root of the Glycyrrhiza glabra plant, is widely praised for its anti-inflammatory and depigmenting properties. Its main active component, glabridin, inhibits tyrosinase and reduces pigmentation while calming irritated skin.

Key Benefits ofLiquoricee Extract:

1. Reduces the appearance of dark spots
2. It helps control inflammation and redness
3. Prevents new pigmentation from forming
4. It contains flavonoids with antioxidant action

According to the UK’s National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), botanical extracts, such as liquorice, are gaining ground in dermatological formulations due to their gentleness and effectiveness.

Why Kojic Acid anLiquoricece Extract Work Better Together

Individually, both kojic acid and liquorice extract are potent ingredients, but when combined, they offer a multi-tiered approach to tackling skin discolouration.

1. Kojic acid suppresses melanin production directly.
2. Liquorice extract helps prevent the spread of melanin and soothes the skin.
3. The pairing ensures both active prevention and correction of pigmentation issues.
4. Both ingredients are plant-derived and well-tolerated, making them ideal for sensitive skin types.

According to research published in Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, such ingredient pairings can produce superior results, mainly when used regularly in a serum format.

First Lady London’s Serums with Kojic Acid & Licorice Extract

Let’s look at First Lady London’s expertly formulated serums that harness this powerful ingredient combination: