Written By: Kriti Saraswat | Updated : September 25, 2014 2:24 PM IST
I have heard that using products which contain kojic acid can help lighten one's complexion. Is this true? How much time does it take to show results? I also want to lighten some scars on my face.
Kojic acid is essentially a by-product of the fermentation process of rice. It is largely prevalent in the Japanese culture where it is obtained after making sake -- a traditional rice wine. But is known to have skin lightening properties. According to skin specialist Dr Shefali Trasi Nerurkar, 'Kojic acid should be used for a minimum 3 months to see some results. But if you want to lighten scars which are quite deep, only creams won't be enough.'
She suggests opting for treatments such as:
Microdermabrasion: It is a mechanical exfoliation done by a dermatologist using either a diamond tip or aluminum oxide crystals along with suction. It acts by removing the top layer of dead skin cells, but with varying levels of suction, you can get a deeper level of exfoliation. This procedure can really help get rid of shallow scars, but you will need at least 10-12 sessions to really get the full results.
Lasers: Fractional ablative lasers are the most effective option available. They essentially act by delivering a laser beam that is divided into tiny columns and goes deep into the skin. In each of these columns, old skin cells are removed, while new skin cells and collagen synthesis is increased. So, the skin is stimulated to naturally heal itself, revealing less marked, tighter and fresher skin.
Chemical peels: Chemical peels involve using strengthened ingredients that cause a chemical exfoliation of the top layers of the skin. The only real side effects are a little redness and a little skin scaling. Now, while this procedure is very gentle, superficial peels are less effective than other treatments because superficial chemical peels typically only hit the topmost layers, while the scars tend to be deeper than that. To counteract that, go to an experienced dermatologist who knows how to do medium-depth peels to ensure those scars get treated.
With inputs from Dr Kiran Lohia
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