Conclusion
The fungal derivative kojic acid has maintained a significant role in the dermatologic armamentarium for 2 decades as a skin-whitening agent and is best used in combination with other depigmenting ingredients, which enhance the overall effect of the formulation and blunt the irritating effects of kojic acid. Recent evidence has allayed fears regarding long-term carcinogenic effects, but as always, research is ongoing to develop newer, safer derivatives.
Dr. Baumann writes the column “Cosmeceutical Critique,” which regularly appears in Skin & Allergy News. She is in private practice in Miami Beach. To respond to this column, or to suggest topics for future columns, e-mail her at sknews@elsevier.com.