Tyrosinase inhibitor
Kojic Acid
Off-white to faintly amber, slightly crystalline cream
Typical Strength
1%–4%
Formulations
0 compounds
Formula
C₆H₆O₄
Mol. Weight
142.11 g/mol
How It Works
Mechanism of action
Chelates copper at the tyrosinase active site, preventing the enzyme from catalyzing the oxidation of tyrosine to DOPA. Acts as an antioxidant, scavenging free radicals.
Did you know?
Kojic acid is a byproduct of Aspergillus oryzae, the fungus used to brew sake.
What compounding can change
When Kojic Acid is compounded for one patient, your prescriber can choose the concentration, combine it with other ingredients, and pick the base. Commercial products come in fixed strengths and bases.
Safety Considerations
Please note: Compounded medications require a prescription from a licensed prescriber for an individual patient. Compounded medications are not FDA-approved. The FDA does not review them for safety, effectiveness or quality. A compounded medication is not the same as, or a generic version of, any FDA-approved drug. This page is general information, not medical advice. Your prescriber decides whether a treatment is right for you and sets the final ingredients, strength and dosage form.