AZELAIC ACID is a yeast that lives on normal skin, malassezia furfur (also known as Pityrosporum ovale). Azelaic acid has many uses in skin care, it is used as a topical treatment for mild to moderate acne and is useful for both comedonal and inflammatory acne. It is antibacterial - reduces the growth of bacteria in the follicle (p acne and staphylococcus epidermis). It is a scavenger of free radicals and helps to reduce pigmentation. It is particularly useful for darker skinned individuals that may have acne dark spots or melasma who may be sensitive to other skin lightening ingredients such as HQ. Azelaic acid is non-toxic and is well tolerated by most individuals. However, those with very sensitive skin or who suffer from eczema, may find it irritating to apply.
KOJIC ACID - derived from Japanese mushrooms; kojic acid imparts antioxidant, antibacterial, and general antimicrobial effects, works on the principle of inhibiting the tyrosinase enzyme that reduces the synthesis of melanin by the skin's melanocytes. Melanin that gives freckles and "age spots" their pigmentation are produced in a multi-step process from the conversion of the amino acid, tyrosine, into dopa and melanin; so inhibiting the tyrosinase enzyme that is a key part of this process stops the formation of irregular pigmentation (which over time lessens the appearance of existing irregular pigment as the skin naturally renews itself over time).
Regular use combined with sun protection gradually lightens dark (brownish) spots such as freckles and age spots or pigment in the skin that may occur in pregnancy or from use of oral contraceptives.
